Is it harmful to take acarbose long-term?
Sep 09, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Acarbose is an antidiabetic medication that helps lower postprandial blood glucose levels. However, after taking the drug, patients may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as flatulence, bowel sounds, diarrhea, and abdominal distension. If these symptoms occur, long-term use is not recommended to avoid potential harm to health. Under a doctor's guidance, alternative antidiabetic medications can be used to maintain blood glucose within the normal range.
Acarbose may be harmful to the body with long-term use.
Acarbose is an antidiabetic medication that delays glucose absorption in the small intestine, helping to lower postprandial blood glucose levels. It is particularly suitable for use alongside dietary control in the treatment of diabetes, and is also effective in reducing postprandial blood glucose in patients with impaired glucose tolerance. However, taking this medication may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as bloating, increased bowel sounds, diarrhea, and abdominal distension. If dietary management is not maintained during treatment, these gastrointestinal symptoms may worsen. Patients experiencing the above side effects should not take acarbose long-term to avoid potential harm to health. Under a doctor's guidance, alternative antidiabetic medications can be used to maintain blood glucose within a normal range; commonly used alternatives include voglibose and miglitol.
Acarbose is contraindicated in patients with significant digestive or absorptive disorders due to chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction, those with severe renal impairment, and those allergic to any component of the drug.
