Precose

Precose Medication Information Leaflet

Common Use

Precose is commonly prescribed to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Classification

Precose is classified as an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor.

Generic Ingredient

In Australia, Precose is available under the generic name Acarbose.

Certification Information

Precose is approved for use in various countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Known Alternatives in Australia

Some known alternatives to Precose in Australia include metformin and sulfonylureas.

Clinical Use

Precose is used to help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Spectrum Of Activity

Precose primarily works by slowing down the digestion of carbohydrates, thereby reducing the increase in blood sugar levels after meals.

Drug interaction

Precose may interact with certain medications, such as digoxin, causing changes in their effects. It's important to consult a healthcare professional about potential drug interactions.

Contraindications and Precautions

Precose is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to acarbose or any component of the product. Precautions should be taken in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal obstruction.

Possible side effect

Some possible side effects of Precose may include flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. It is advisable to monitor and report any unusual side effects to a healthcare professional.

Dosage and Directions

The usual starting dosage of Precose is 25 mg, taken orally three times a day, with each main meal. The dosage may be increased based on individual response.

Missed dose and Overdose

If a dose of Precose is missed, it should be taken with the next main meal. Overdose of Precose can lead to excessive gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

Storage

Precose should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Known Non-standard Use

There is ongoing research on the potential non-standard use of Precose, such as its effects on weight loss and metabolic syndrome, but it is not approved for these purposes.

Patient Considerations

Patients taking Precose should be aware of the risk of hypoglycemia when used with other antidiabetic medications. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy

Precose should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.

Possible Risks

There may be potential risks associated with the use of Precose, including hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal side effects, and liver dysfunction. It is important to be aware of these potential risks and consult a healthcare professional if any concerns arise.

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Precose FAQ

What is Precose used for?

Precose is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and helps control blood sugar levels.

How should I take Precose?

Precose should be taken as directed by the doctor, usually with the first bite of each main meal.

What are the side effects of Precose?

Common side effects may include gas, diarrhea, stomach pain, or bloating.

Can Precose be used alone or with other diabetes medications?

Precose is usually used along with other diabetes medications like metformin or insulin.

Is Precose safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

It's important to consult a doctor before using Precose during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Precose?

If a dose is missed, it should be taken with the next main meal.

How long does it take for Precose to start working?

Precose starts working soon after the first dose, but it may take several weeks to show its full effect.

Are there any food or drinks that I should avoid while taking Precose?

It's recommended to avoid drinking alcohol and consuming high-carbohydrate foods while taking Precose.

Can Precose cause low blood sugar?

Precose may cause low blood sugar, so it's important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Precose?

Before taking Precose, it's important to discuss any allergies, digestive disorders, or intestinal blockages with the doctor.

How long do I need to take Precose?

Precose is usually taken for a long-term treatment of diabetes unless otherwise directed by the doctor.

Can Precose be used in children?

Precose is not recommended for use in children.

Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking Precose?

Precose may cause dizziness or low blood sugar, so caution is advised while driving or operating machinery.

Can Precose be taken with herbal supplements?

It's important to consult a doctor before taking Precose with any herbal supplements or alternative medicines.

What should I do if I experience severe bloating or stomach pain while taking Precose?

Severe bloating or stomach pain should be reported to the doctor immediately as it may indicate a serious gastrointestinal condition.