Gluco-A
Generic Name
Acarbose
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| gluco a 50 mg tablet | ৳ 11.04 | ৳ 110.40 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Gluco-A 50 mg Tablet contains Acarbose, an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus by slowing down carbohydrate digestion.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 25 mg three times daily with the first bite of each main meal. May be increased up to 50-100 mg three times daily based on response. For Gluco-A 50 mg tablet: 50 mg three times daily with the first bite of each main meal. Max dose 100 mg three times daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (CrCl < 25 mL/min). Use with caution in moderate impairment.
How to Take
Take orally with the first bite of each main meal.
Mechanism of Action
Acarbose inhibits alpha-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine, delaying the digestion of complex carbohydrates and reducing postprandial glucose levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour after administration
Excretion
Primarily via feces (unabsorbed drug) and renal excretion (absorbed drug and metabolites)
Half life
Approximately 2 hours (active metabolite)
Absorption
Minimally absorbed systemically (less than 2%)
Metabolism
Metabolized by intestinal bacteria and digestive enzymes
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Colonic ulceration
- Partial intestinal obstruction or predisposition to it
- Chronic intestinal diseases associated with marked disorders of digestion or absorption
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Known hypersensitivity to acarbose or excipients
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May alter digoxin bioavailability.
Sulfonylureas/Insulin
Increased risk of hypoglycemia (dose adjustment may be needed).
Intestinal adsorbents (e.g., charcoal)
May reduce the effect of acarbose.
Digestive enzyme preparations (e.g., amylase, pancreatin)
May reduce the effect of acarbose.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include increased flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care. Avoid carbohydrate intake for 4-6 hours.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data on safety and potential risk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Colonic ulceration
- Partial intestinal obstruction or predisposition to it
- Chronic intestinal diseases associated with marked disorders of digestion or absorption
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Known hypersensitivity to acarbose or excipients
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May alter digoxin bioavailability.
Sulfonylureas/Insulin
Increased risk of hypoglycemia (dose adjustment may be needed).
Intestinal adsorbents (e.g., charcoal)
May reduce the effect of acarbose.
Digestive enzyme preparations (e.g., amylase, pancreatin)
May reduce the effect of acarbose.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include increased flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care. Avoid carbohydrate intake for 4-6 hours.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data on safety and potential risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy in reducing postprandial glucose and HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients, showing significant improvements in glycemic control.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (baseline and periodically, especially in the first 6-12 months)
- Renal function tests
- Blood glucose levels (HbA1c)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize importance of taking with first bite of meal for optimal efficacy and to minimize side effects.
- Counsel patients on potential GI side effects (flatulence, diarrhea) and how to manage them (gradual dose titration).
- Monitor liver function periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
- Acarbose does not typically cause hypoglycemia when used alone; however, caution is needed when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with the first bite of main meals.
- Follow prescribed diet and exercise regimen.
- Be aware of symptoms of hypoglycemia, especially if taken with other antidiabetics.
- Report any severe gastrointestinal side effects or persistent abdominal discomfort to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it with the next main meal. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally considered safe as acarbose alone does not cause hypoglycemia. However, if combined with other antidiabetics that can cause hypoglycemia, caution is advised if dizziness or vision changes occur.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in refined sugars.
- Regular physical activity is crucial for diabetes management.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can affect blood sugar levels.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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