Acarbose + Metformin

Dosage Forms Available

• Acarbose + Metformin is available for oral administration in the form of tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is primarily meant for adults. It may be prescribed to children above 12 years of age under specific circumstances, as advised by the doctor.

Contraindications

• Acarbose + Metformin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to acarbose or metformin.

• This medicine should not be used by patients with severe renal impairment or those with severe hepatic dysfunction.

• Patients with diabetic ketoacidosis should avoid using this combination.

• Conditions that may cause tissue hypoxia like cardiovascular collapse, severe infection, and acute myocardial infarction also serve as contraindications.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Acarbose + Metformin may interact with insulin and other antidiabetic medications (such as glipizide, glyburide), diuretics (such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), corticosteroids (such as prednisone, dexamethasone), thyroid hormones (such as levothyroxine), calcium channel blockers (such as amlodipine, nifedipine), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (such as ibuprofen, naproxen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of this combination may lead to lactic acidosis, mainly due to metformin. If you suspect an overdose, immediately consult your doctor.

• If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Acarbose + Metformin are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhoea and nausea.

• Maintaining a regular eating schedule can help manage flatulence and abdominal pain.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Acarbose + Metformin does not usually affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or lightheadedness after taking this medication, you should avoid such activities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Acarbose + Metformin during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be based on the doctor's advice.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with acute or chronic metabolic acidosis should exercise caution when taking Acarbose + Metformin.

• This medicine should be used with care in patients with temporary metabolic stresses like fever or trauma.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended for patients with diabetes.

• Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, and avoiding high sugar foods and drinks can help manage blood sugar levels.

• Regular physical activity or exercise can help control blood sugar levels.

• Limiting alcohol intake is important as alcohol consumption can affect blood glucose levels.

• Regular health screenings and check-ups are recommended to monitor the progress of the patient's condition.