Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors Flashcards

1
Q

Give an example of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor

A

Acarbose

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2
Q

What is the mechanism of action of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A

Delay the digestion and absorption of starch and sucrose, which lowers the blood glucose level

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3
Q

What is the route of delivery of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A

PO

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4
Q

What are the indications for alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A

Type 2 diabetes mellitus, usually prescribed when other anti-glycaemic agents have failed, were contraindicated, or not tolerated

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5
Q

What are the contraindications to alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Hernia
  • Previous abdominal surgery
  • Hepatic impairment
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
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6
Q

What monitoring is required with alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A

Monitor liver function by checking LFTs

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7
Q

What might interact with alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A
  • Digoxin
  • Alcohol
  • Orlistat
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8
Q

What is orlistat?

A

A drug that is a lipase inhibitor and is used as an adjunct in obesity

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9
Q

What might happen if alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are given with digoxin?

A

Plasma concentration of digoxin increased

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10
Q

What might happen if alpha-glucosidase inhibitors is given with alcohol?

A

Increase risk of hypoglycaemia

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11
Q

What are the common side effects of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A
  • Abdominal pain
  • Flatulence
  • Diarrhoea and soft stools
  • Abdominal distention
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12
Q

What are the less common side effects of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A
  • Abdominal LFTs
  • Jaundice
  • Hepatitis
  • Skin reactions
  • Oedema
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13
Q

What patient counselling is required with alpha-glucosidase inhibitors?

A
  • Carry glucose with you at all times
  • Take with food
  • Driving advice
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14
Q

Why should patients on alpha-glucosidase inhibitors carry glucose at all times?

A

Due to the risk of hypoglycaemia, especially if also taking insulin or sulphonylureas

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15
Q

How should alpha-glucosidase inhibitors be taken?

A

Tablets should be swallowed whole immediately before a meal or taken with first mouthful

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