Effects
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (ATC A10BF) have antidiabetic properties:
- Glucose is released more slowly in the gut and absorbed more slowly into the blood
- Decrease the rise in blood glucose after meals and blood sugar fluctuations.
- Do not cause hypoglycemia as monotherapy
Mechanism of action
The action is based on the inhibition of intestinal enzymes (alpha-glucosidases) involved in the degradation of dietary di-, oligo- or polysaccharides. This leads to a delay in the digestion of the mentioned carbohydrates.
Indications
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Active ingredients
- Acarbose (Glucobay)
- Miglitol (Diastabol, in many countries out of trade).