Acarbose for diabetes mellitus

Article Abstract:

Acarbose (Precose) may effectively lower glucose concentrations in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Taken alone or with other medications at the beginning of a meal, acarbose delays the absorption of glucose in the intestines. As a result of fermentation in the colon, gastrointestinal side effects include flatulence, cramps, diarrhea, and swelling. The manufacturer recommends slowly increasing the dosage from 25 milligrams (mg) three times a day to 50 mg or 100 mg, depending on the patient's weight. The risk of hypoglycemia increases with a combination of acarbose and insulin or sulfonylureas. Metformin may further worsen the gastrointestinal side effects of acarbose.

Publisher: Medical Letter, Inc.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1996
Precose (Medication)

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Nateglinide for type 2 diabetes

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved Starlix for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This drug stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin. It is less effective than the sulfonylurea drugs and is more expensive.

Publisher: Medical Letter, Inc.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2001
Product information, Novartis AG, NVTSY, Starlix (Medication)

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Direct-to-consumer advertisements for Glucophage XR

Article Abstract:

Most people with type 2 diabetes probably do not need to take Glucophage XR, which is an extended release form of the drug metformin. Metformin may be available as a generic drug in the year 2001.

Publisher: Medical Letter, Inc.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2001
Metformin, Glucophage XR (Medication)

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Subjects list: Evaluation, Product/Service Evaluation, Drug therapy, Type 2 diabetes
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