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Precose (Acarbose) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Precose?

Precose is an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used to treat type 2 diabetes. It slows the breakdown of dietary carbohydrates, helping to control post-meal blood-glucose spikes. The medication is available as a tablet and is registered for use in South Africa by SAHPRA, with additional approvals from the FDA and EMA.

Who Should Use Precose?

• Adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who need additional glucose control despite diet, exercise, or other oral agents.
• Individuals with mild to moderate renal function who can tolerate the drug.
• Patients seeking a non-insulin option to lower post-prandial glucose levels.

How Does It Work?

Precose blocks the enzyme alpha-glucosidase in the small intestine, which normally breaks down complex carbs into glucose. By inhibiting this step, carbohydrate absorption is delayed, resulting in a smoother rise in blood sugar after meals. The effect is comparable to driving a car with a speed-limiter: the vehicle (glucose) cannot accelerate as quickly, making it easier to stay within safe limits.

Why Choose Precose?

• Cost-effective: As a generic product, it offers the same clinical benefit as brand-name alternatives at a lower price.
• Targeted action: It specifically reduces post-meal glucose spikes, complementing other diabetes medicines that act on fasting glucose.
• Flexibility: Can be combined with many other diabetes agents (always discuss with a health professional).

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• Start with 25 mg taken three times daily with the first bite of each main meal.
• If needed, the dose may be increased to 50 mg per meal after at least two weeks, based on blood-glucose response.

How to Take

1. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
2. Take it immediately before the first bite of a meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
3. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember before the next meal. Skip it if it is already close to the next scheduled dose-do not double-dose.

Overdose

In case of accidental overdose, contact a local poison information centre or go to the nearest emergency department. Symptoms may include severe abdominal Pain, nausea, or persistent Diarrhea.

Special Populations

• Elderly: Start with the lowest dose and monitor tolerance.
• Renal impairment: Use the 25 mg dose only; avoid if severe renal dysfunction is present.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Only use if clearly indicated by a health professional.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Eat balanced meals with complex carbohydrates and fiber to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
• Limit high-sugar foods that can overwhelm the drug’s effect.
• Avoid excessive grapefruit juice, which may alter drug absorption.

Precautions and Warnings

• May cause flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea-often improve with dose titration.
• Monitor blood glucose regularly to avoid hypoglycaemia, especially when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.
• Discontinue if severe gastrointestinal reactions occur.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Flatulence
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain

Less Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Headache

Serious Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) - seek immediate medical help.
• Persistent diarrhoea with dehydration - consult a health professional.

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to acarbose or any tablet components.
• Patients with chronic intestinal diseases (e.g., Inflammatory Bowel Disease).
• Those with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in the original container, tightly closed.
• Store at 15 °C - 30 °C away from excess heat and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Precose Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Precose start working?

Precose begins to affect carbohydrate absorption within 30 minutes of the first dose.

Can I take Precose if I drink alcohol?

Moderate alcohol is permissible, but excessive intake may worsen gastrointestinal side effects.

Will Precose cause weight loss?

Weight loss is not a primary effect; any change is usually modest and related to improved glycaemic control.

Do I need to monitor blood sugar more often?

Yes, especially during the first few weeks and when dose adjustments are made.

Is it safe to use Precose with my metformin tablet?

Combining them is common and generally safe; however, monitor for increased gastrointestinal discomfort.

What should I do if I experience severe diarrhoea?

Reduce the dose to 25 mg per meal or temporarily stop the medication and seek advice from a health professional.

Can I take Precose on an empty stomach?

No, it must be taken with the first bite of a meal to work effectively.

Is there a generic version of Precose available in South Africa?

Yes, several local manufacturers produce generic acarbose tablets meeting SAHPRA standards.

Glossary

• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor: A drug that slows the breakdown of carbs in the gut, reducing post-meal blood-sugar spikes.
• Post-prandial glucose: Blood-sugar level measured after eating.
• eGFR: Estimated glomerular filtration rate, a measure of kidney function.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Use of Precose for any indication not approved by regulatory authorities should only occur after consultation with a qualified health professional. Our service offers medication information and ordering facilitation; we are not a prescribing entity. Always verify dosage and suitability with your own healthcare provider.