Precose

Acarbose

This medication is indicated to support blood sugar control and formulated to target post-prandial hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Active ingredient
Acarbose
Supply
Pharmacy
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
25 · 50mg

Precose details

Alternative names
Glucobay
Therapeutic class
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor
Pharmacological class
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor
Minor side effects
flatulence; diarrhoea; abdominal ache
Moderate side effects
elevated liver enzymes
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Supply category
Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
Manufacturer
Bayer
Onset Time
within meal
Duration
4–6 hours
Storage instructions
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
Drug interactions
neomycin; colestyramine; digoxin
Age restrictions
Not recommended for children.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Should not be used. Breastfeeding: Should not be used.
Contraindications

hypersensitivity to acarbose; chronic intestinal diseases; severe renal impairment; inflammatory bowel disease

Precautions and warnings

take with the first bite of each meal; monitor blood glucose regularly; may cause abdominal discomfort

Serious side effects

jaundice, requires immediate medical attention; ileus, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

This medication is indicated to support blood sugar control and formulated to target post-prandial hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Mechanism of action

Acarbose acts within the gastrointestinal tract to inhibit alpha-glucosidase enzymes. This slows the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into glucose, resulting in a delayed, and often reduced, increase in blood glucose concentrations following a meal.

Where this medicine is registered

  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • UAE
  • South Africa

About Precose

Precose is a brand-name formulation of acarbose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used to help manage blood glycaemic control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. This medication is also sold under the name Glucobay, and it is supplied as tablets in 25mg and 50mg strengths. Bayer manufactures this medicine for use alongside dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Buying Precose online

Precose is registered across 13 markets, including South Korea, Japan and the UAE, with availability also in Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand. As one of the most ordered medications for diabetes maintenance across the region, it is often requested online for delivery. Generic acarbose, much of which is produced in India, offers a far more affordable alternative to the original brand, making consistent treatment access possible for expats and those located far from a pharmacy.