Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors(Arcabose)

Introduction

Alpha-Glucosidase is an enzyme found in the intestinal brush border. It involves with carbohydrates metabolism.

Arcabose is the available Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitor. It has a small but significant effect in lowering blood glucose and is used either on its own or as an adjunct to metformin or Sulphonylureas when they prove inadequate.

Mechanism of actions

Acarbose is a competitive inhibitor of Alpha-Glucosidase enzyme. Thereby it reduces the carbohydrate breakdown and it will slow down the glucose absorption. The ultimate result is reduction of postprandial blood glucose level.

Pharmacokinetics

It is given orally. Small amount of the drug is absorbed into the circulation.

Side effects

1. Abdominal discomfort, flatulence and diarrhea due to the fermentation of undigested carbohydrates.
2. If it is absorbed into the circulation in large dose, it can cause liver dysfunction

Clinical uses

1. Useful for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus whose blood sugar control is inadequate with diet and other oral hypoglycemic drugs.
2. good for obese patients
3. It can be used to reduce the post-prandial blood sugar in patients with type1 diabetes mellitus.