Indications 

Precose is a prescribed medication used alongside diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It may also be prescribed in combination with insulin or other oral diabetes medications. 

Classified as an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, Precose functions by retarding the activity of specific substances responsible for breaking down food and releasing glucose into the bloodstream. This delay in food digestion effectively prevents excessive elevation of blood glucose levels following meals. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Precose and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any queries or concerns. 

Precose dosage is individualized based on medical conditions and response to the treatment.  

To minimize the risk of side effects, your doctor may advise starting this medication at a low dose and gradually increasing it. Carefully follow your doctor’s instructions. 

Typically, Precose is taken three times daily with the first bite of a meal. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed. Avoid exceeding or reducing the recommended dosage, and refrain from taking it more frequently than advised by your doctor. 

Keep taking Precose even if you are feeling well. Discontinuing its use should only be done after consulting with your doctor.  

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens (e.g., if your blood sugar levels are excessively high or low). 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Precose. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, promptly inform your healthcare provider. 

Common Side Effects 

• Stomach discomfort 
• Gas 
• Bloating 
• Mild diarrhea 
• Mild skin rash or itching 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe constipation 
• Severe stomach pain, watery or bloody diarrhea 
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin 
• Indications of liver problems: 
  • Nausea 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Itching 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Inform your doctor right away if any of the serious side effects listed above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Precose may occur. Promptly seek medical help if any of the following indications of severe allergic reactions are noticed:  

• Hives 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Precose are included in this list. Notify your doctor right away if any unlisted effects are observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Precose, inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to acarbose or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for more details, as Precose may contain inactive components that may trigger allergies or other complications. 

To ensure Precose is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Intestines or bowel problems (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, blockage, ulcers) 
• Kidney problems 
• Liver disease 

Various medications can impact your blood sugar levels, potentially making it more challenging to manage. Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before initiating, discontinuing, or altering any medication to understand its potential effects on your blood sugar and to minimize the risk of drug interaction with Precose. 

Some of the medications that may interact with Precose include: 

• Charcoal products taken orally 
• Digestive enzyme products (e.g., amylase, pancreatin) 
• Pramlintide 

Due to the potential impact of extremely low or high blood sugar, you may encounter symptoms like blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Avoid activities that demand alertness or clear vision, such as driving or using machinery, until you are to perform them safely. 

During periods of bodily stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, blood sugar control may become more challenging. Consult your doctor in such situations, as it may necessitate adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing. 

Inform your doctor about your pregnancy status or intention to become pregnant, as Precose should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. 

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Precose, as the potential transfer of acarbose into breast milk and its impact on a nursing infant is currently unknown.