For diabetes.
Brand Name(s): Precose
Generic Name: Acarbose
Instructions
Take the medicine with a meal.
Take this medicine only with a meal. Do not use if you skip meals.
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
This medicine usually does not cause low blood sugar levels if you eat regular meals.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Do not take the medicine more than three times during 24 hours.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
If you drink alcohol regularly, please speak with your doctor.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
The side effects may improve with continued use.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- abdominal cramps
- bloating
- diarrhea
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- confusion
- constipation
- severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
- drowsiness or sedation
- feeling of heat or flushing
- rapid breathing
- blood in stool
- excessive thirst
- increased urinary frequency
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about ACARBOSE - ORAL
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