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Acarbose

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Structure

  • Acarbose is a pseudotetrasaccharide composed of glucose units linked by alpha-1,4 and alpha-1,6 glycosidic bonds, modified with a valienamine moiety.

  • Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₃₄N₂O₁₄

    formula of Acarbose
Structure of Acarbose
Structure of Acarbose

Mode of Action

  • Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition: Blocks enzymes responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into glucose.

  • Delayed Carbohydrate Absorption: Slows the rise in blood glucose levels postprandially.

  • Reduced Hyperglycemia: Helps in maintaining overall glycemic control.

Uses

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Manages postprandial blood glucose levels.

  • Metabolic Syndrome: Assists in improving insulin sensitivity and glycemic control.

Side Effects

  • Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal pain due to undigested carbohydrates reaching the colon.


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