A comprehensive review on acarbose in glycaemia control: current insights and future prospects

Akashkumar N. Singh; Minhaj Ilyasali Patel; Kiran Ramanlal Shah; Vishwa Unadkat

doi:10.18203/2319-2003.ijbcp20251072

Authors

Akashkumar N. Singh Department of Internal Medicine and Diabetes, Manjalpur Hospital, Tulsidham Char Rasta, Manjalpur, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Minhaj Ilyasali Patel Department of Medicine, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat, India
Kiran Ramanlal Shah Pooja Nursing Home, Palace Road, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Vishwa Unadkat Yashvee Diabetes Clinic, Vadodara, Gujarat, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2319-2003.ijbcp20251072

Keywords:

Acarbose, Glycaemic control, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Postprandial hyperglycaemia, Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, HbA1c, Combination therapy, Diabetes management

Abstract

This comprehensive review examines the part of acarbose in glycaemic control, particularly in managing Glycaemic control among type 1, and also type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) along with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Acarbose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, works by delaying carbohydrate (carb.) digestion in the small intestine (SI), thereby preventing sharp postprandial blood glucose (BG) spikes. This mechanism of action is crucial for maintaining stable glycaemic levels (lvl.s) and reducing HbA1c, which is vital in preventing long-term diabetes complications. The review highlights recent clinical studies that demonstrate acarbose’s efficacy and safety profile, including its minimal systemic absorption and tolerability across diverse patient populations. Additionally, it explores the potential of acarbose in combination therapy with other antidiabetic agents (ADAs), emphasizing its complementary effects in enhancing overall glycaemic control. Furthermore, the discussion addresses emerging trends, ongoing research, and future directions for acarbose in diabetes management, underscoring its significance as a valuable tool in therapeutic strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes.

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