Generic Precose is used for treating type 2 diabetes in adults whose diabetes cannot be managed with diet alone. This medicine may be used alone, in combination with other oral diabetes medicines or with insulin.
ACARBOSE helps to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps to control blood sugar. Treatment is combined with diet and exercise.
What should my health care professional know before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
ketoacidosis
kidney disease
liver disease
stomach or bowel disease, or obstruction
an unusual or allergic reaction to acarbose, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Swallow the tablets at the start of a main meal. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
If you develop severe vomiting or severe diarrhea that prevents you from eating meals, call your doctor or health care professional for advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forgot your dose at the start of your meal and you are still eating that meal, take your dose while you are still eating. Otherwise, skip the missed dose. This medicine is not effective if not taken during a meal. Wait for your next dose at your next main meal, and take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
charcoal
digestive enzymes like amylase and pancreatin
digoxin
diuretics
female hormones, like estrogens or progestins and birth control pills
isoniazid
medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine
medicines for high blood pressure called beta-blockers and calcium channel-blockers
nicotinic acid
phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
phenytoin
steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
thyroid hormones
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines that you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Learn how to check your blood sugar. Keep to your diet and exercise plan while you are taking this medicine.
Know the signs of low blood sugar and teach them to the people around you. In case of low blood sugar, keep a source of glucose with you.
It is important to follow a diabetic diet when taking this medicine. This may help decrease some of the side effects like diarrhea, bloating, and gas. If you are following the diet and you still have severe diarrhea or gas, contact your health care professional.
Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have diabetes, and carry a card that lists all your medications.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
dark urine
loss of appetite
unusually weak or tired
weight loss
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
bloated feeling
diarrhea
stomach gas, rumbling
stomach pain, upset
This list may not describe all possible side effects.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). protect from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
