| Composition | Acarbose 50mg |
|---|---|
| Dosage | TABLET |
| Packing Size | 20×10 |
| Packing | Alu-Alu |
Overview:
ACRICOP 50 is a highly effective anti-diabetic medication containing Acarbose 50mg as its active pharmaceutical ingredient. It is an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that plays a vital role in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), particularly for patients whose blood sugar levels cannot be controlled through diet and exercise alone. By slowing down carbohydrate digestion and absorption, ACRICOP 50 helps regulate postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels, reducing fluctuations and providing long-term glycemic stability. This makes it an essential therapeutic option for individuals at risk of diabetes-related complications, including neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular issues.
Acarbose, the active ingredient in ACRICOP 50, is a pseudo-carbohydrate that competitively inhibits intestinal alpha-glucosidase enzymes. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates and disaccharides into glucose, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream. By inhibiting these enzymes, Acarbose delays carbohydrate digestion, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar levels after meals. Unlike insulin or sulfonylureas, Acarbose does not directly stimulate insulin secretion, making it an effective and safer choice for many patients, especially those prone to hypoglycemia.
This mechanism is especially beneficial for individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and Type 2 Diabetes, as it helps maintain steady glucose control and improves HbA1c levels.
ACRICOP 50 (Acarbose 50mg) is indicated for:
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) – Used alone or in combination with other anti-diabetic drugs like metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin for better glycemic control.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) – Helps delay or prevent the progression to Type 2 Diabetes in at-risk patients.
Postprandial Hyperglycemia – Specifically targets elevated blood sugar levels following meals, which is a common challenge in diabetic management.
Combination Therapy – Suitable as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan involving lifestyle modification, dietary control, and exercise.
Recommended Dose: ACRICOP 50 is typically started at a low dose of 25mg, then gradually increased to 50mg three times daily with the first bite of each meal.
The dose may be adjusted to a maximum of 100mg three times daily, depending on individual tolerance and glycemic response.
Tablets must be swallowed whole with a small amount of water, immediately before or with meals.
Dosage should be personalized based on blood glucose monitoring, HbA1c levels, and overall treatment goals.
Improved Postprandial Glucose Control: Reduces after-meal blood sugar spikes, a major risk factor for long-term complications.
Weight Neutral: Unlike insulin or some oral drugs, Acarbose is weight-neutral, making it ideal for overweight or obese patients.
Low Risk of Hypoglycemia: Does not stimulate insulin secretion, lowering the risk of sudden drops in blood sugar when used alone.
Cardiovascular Protection: Evidence suggests improved post-meal glucose control reduces cardiovascular events.
Suitable for Combination Therapy: Can be safely combined with other oral antidiabetic drugs or insulin for better glucose regulation.
Preventive Role: May delay the onset of diabetes in patients with impaired glucose tolerance.
Absorption: Acarbose is minimally absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for local action within the intestines.
Metabolism: Metabolized primarily by intestinal bacteria and digestive enzymes.
Excretion: Excreted mainly through feces, with a small proportion excreted unchanged via urine.
Onset of Action: Rapid effect on carbohydrate digestion, noticeable within the first dose.
Most side effects are gastrointestinal and occur due to fermentation of undigested carbohydrates:
Flatulence (gas)
Diarrhea
Abdominal bloating or discomfort
Mild nausea
Rarely, elevated liver enzymes in long-term therapy
Note: Symptoms are typically mild, transient, and resolve with continued treatment or dietary adjustments (reducing simple sugars).
Liver Function Monitoring: Periodic liver enzyme tests are recommended during prolonged therapy.
Renal Impairment: Should be used cautiously in patients with severe kidney dysfunction.
Hypoglycemia Management: If taken with insulin or sulfonylureas, risk of hypoglycemia may increase. Hypoglycemia should be treated with glucose (dextrose), not sucrose, as Acarbose delays sucrose breakdown.
Dietary Compliance: Patients should follow a diabetes-friendly diet for optimal effectiveness.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Not recommended for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, or chronic digestive issues.
Digestive Enzyme Preparations: (e.g., amylase or pancreatin) may reduce Acarbose effectiveness.
Antacids and Activated Charcoal: May decrease drug efficacy.
Insulin & Sulfonylureas: May increase hypoglycemia risk; dosage adjustments may be needed.
Warfarin: Caution advised as Acarbose may potentiate anticoagulant effects.
Patients using ACRICOP 50 should adopt a holistic approach to diabetes care:
Balanced Diet: Emphasize high-fiber, complex carbohydrates; avoid refined sugars to minimize side effects.
Exercise: Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity.
Weight Management: Helps optimize drug effectiveness.
Regular Monitoring: Frequent blood glucose and HbA1c checks are essential.
Product Name: ACRICOP 50
Composition: Acarbose 50mg
Dosage Form: Tablet
Packaging: Blister strips or bottles, typically 10×10 tablets per box for easy dispensing.
Storage: Store below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
ACRICOP 50 provides targeted, safe, and effective control of post-meal glucose levels, which is often overlooked in diabetes therapy. By working at the intestinal level and not stimulating insulin release, it reduces the risk of long-term complications without causing weight gain or severe hypoglycemia. For individuals struggling to manage blood sugar spikes or those newly diagnosed with diabetes, ACRICOP 50 is a trusted, clinically validated solution.
