Precose 50mg (Generic)

WHAT IS THIS MEDICATION FOR?

Precose 50mg (Generic) is used to lower blood sugar in patients with high blood sugar (diabetes).

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Acarbose works by slowing the action of certain chemicals that break down food to release sugar (glucose) in your body. Slowing food digestion helps keep blood glucose from rising very high after meals.

HOW TO USE?

Ensure that you take Acarbose exactly as directed by the doctor in order to keep your diabetes under control. It is usually taken three times a day. Do not stop taking this medicine without first asking your doctor. Acarbose should be taken at the start of the meal, with the first mouthful of food. Stick to the diabetic diet recommended by your doctor or nutritionist. This will help minimise any side effects you may have with Acarbose.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Belly pain, gas, loose stools (diarrhea), lightheadedness, sweating, nervousness or irritability.

WHAT TO DO IF I MISS A DOSE?

Take a missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you will be having a snack soon, take a dose with the snack. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this drug.

PRECAUTIONS:

Alert your doctor if you suffer from liver or kidney disease, bowel problems especially bowel inflammation, ulceration or blockage, problems with food digestion or absorption, or if you have had large hernias. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

WHEN DO I NEED TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP?

Seek help if you think there was an overdose or an allergic reaction. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug include wheezing, chest tightness, fever; itching, bad cough, blue or gray skin color, seizures, or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Signs of infection include a fever of 100.5°F (38°C) or higher, chills, very bad sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, more sputum or change in color of sputum, pain with passing urine, mouth sores, wound that will not heal, or anal itching or pain. Contact your doctor if you have a very low blood sugar or very high blood sugar, any rash, or a side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

CAN I TAKE IT WITH OTHER MEDICINES?

Acarbose should not be taken with antacids because antacids could make Acarbose less effective. Antacids may not reduce the stomach discomfort experienced with Acarbose. If you must take antacids, take between meals at least 2 hours after you have taken Acarbose. Do not take digestive enzymes as these may reduce the action of Acarbose. Also let your doctor know if you are taking medicines known as neomycin and cholestyramine. Acarbose may interfere with certain heart medicines like digoxin. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

FOOD RESTRICTIONS:

It is important for you to maintain a healthy diet and weight in order to help keep your diabetes under control. Avoid alcohol.

HOW TO STORE:

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

PREGNANCY CATEGORY:

Category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

THERAPEUTIC CLASSIFICATION:

Antidiabetic Agents.