Accarb

Accarb (Acarbose) is prescribed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes (often referred to as noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus). Patients affected by this condition are unable to control blood sugar levels. This medication is taken alongside meals, so as to slow down the release of sugar into the blood, thereby preventing an increase in blood sugar after the consumption of a meal (which can occur in diabetic patients). In certain cases, physicians may prescribe this medicine for use in combination with other drugs for the control of diabetes.

Accarb (Acarbose) comes in the form of 50mg tablets, which are taken with a small amount of water right before eating or else together with the first mouthful of a main meal. Adult patients are sometimes instructed by their physician to take 25mg three times per day (with each main meal), and after this, a maintenance dose may be prescribed (usually 50mg to 100mg three times per day). In all cases, patients must follow the instructions provided by their physician.

Accarb (Acarbose) may cause:

• Itchy skin
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach upset
• Pain affecting the stomach

Serious reactions, such as extreme stomach pain, constipation that is severe in nature, bleeding and any other severe symptoms will require the patient to seek emergency medical care.

If this drug is prescribed for use in combination with other diabetes medications, hypoglycemia may occur. Ask your physician for more details.

You may also be told to follow a specific diet, as well as exercising regularly as part of your treatment for diabetes.