Precose
Generic Name: Acarbose
What is Precose?
Precose is an oral medication used to treat type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent) when high blood sugar levels cannot be controlled by diet and exercise alone.What is the most important information I should know about Precose?
While taking Precose, your doctor will give you a blood test every 3 months during your first year of treatment to check your liver.Have your blood and urine checked periodically for the presence of abnormal blood sugar levels.
If you are taking Precose along with insulin or certain other diabetes medications called sulfonylureas, be sure to have some source of glucose (sugar) available in case you experience any symptoms of low blood sugar.
Precose is an aid to helping to control your glucose levels. It is not a substitute for a good diet and exercise.
A temporary loss of control of blood glucose may occur during exposure to stress like fever, trauma, infection, or surgery. Insulin may be needed temporarily.
Stomach side effects are most common while taking Precose. They may develop in the first few weeks but eventually decrease in frequency and intensity.
Who should not take Precose?
Do not take Precose when suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening medical emergency caused by insufficient insulin and marked by mental confusion, excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue).You should not take Precose if you are allergic to the medication or if you have cirrhosis (chronic liver disease), inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers in your colon, any obstruction in your intestine or if you have a chronic intestinal disease associated with a digestion or absorption disorder, or if you have any condition that could worsen as a result of increased gas formation in the intestine.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Precose?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Precose. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis (inflammatory disease of the large intestine) or Crohn's disease (inflammatory disease of the digestive system), or any other disease of the intestines, ulcers of the colon, a blockage or obstruction in the intestines, liver disease, or kidney disease.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended dose is 25 milligrams (mg) given three times a day, taken at the start (with the first bite) of each main meal. You may need to work up to this dose gradually and start with 25 mg given only once a day.
How should I take Precose?
Do not take more or less of Precose than directed by your doctor. Precose is usually taken three times a day with the first bite of each main meal.What should I avoid while taking Precose?
Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before you undergo any surgery.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Precose?
If Precose is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Precose with the following: calcium channel blockers (such as diltiazem and verapamil), corticosteroids (such as prednisone), digestive enzyme preparations (such as amylase, pancreatin), digoxin, estrogens, isoniazid, major tranquilizers, nicotinic acid, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine), phenytoin, sympathomimetics (such as albuterol), thiazides and other diuretics (water pills), or thyroid medications.What are the possible side effects of Precose?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas
Can I receive Precose if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Precose during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Precose?
For maximum effectiveness, Precose should be taken with the first bite of a meal. If you forget to take it with the first bite, take the dose as soon as you remember if you are still eating or right after you finish your meal. Otherwise, wait until your next main meal to take your medicine. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Precose?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
