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This program addresses the escalating challenge of type 2 diabetes, particularly in the USA, where clinicians are increasingly confronted with this condition among younger demographics. Acarbose, an approved adjunctive therapy for adults with type 2 diabetes, plays a crucial role in managing this prevalent health concern. The curriculum delves into the indications, contraindications, interactions, monitoring protocols, and other therapeutic aspects essential for an interprofessional healthcare team. By participating in this educational session, healthcare professionals will gain a comprehensive understanding of acarbose therapy, enabling them to make informed decisions and collaborate effectively to tailor treatment plans for improved patient outcomes. Objectives: Identify the mechanism of action of acarbose. Identify the potential adverse effects of acarbose. Determine appropriate monitoring for acarbose therapy. Compare interprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and communication when using acarbose to improve patient outcomes for glucose control. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Overdose with acarbose will not cause hypoglycemia but may increase GI adverse effects. Patients should not have food or beverages that contain carbohydrates for 4 to 6 hours if an overdose occurs. If a patient experiences hypoglycemia while taking acarbose in combination with other antidiabetic medications, the patient should receive instructions to use glucose (gel, tablets, etc). Acarbose will prevent the breakdown of sucrose (table sugar) and delay glucose absorption, failing to correct hypoglycemia quickly. Severe hypoglycemia may require intravenous glucose or intramuscular glucagon administration.

Acarbose is a commonly used medication for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. While the drug is helpful, it is not a highly effective agent when used as monotherapy. Because the drug works in the gastrointestinal system, the most common adverse effects are gastrointestinal upset/bloating. Hence, the prescribing clinicians (MD, DO, NP, PA), nurses (especially certified diabetes educators), and pharmacists must educate the patient on how to use the drug. Further, patients should receive counsel to avoid cola beverages, as the adverse abdominal symptoms may worsen. While hypoglycemia is extremely rare with this agent, one should consider other antidiabetic drugs as the cause if it occurs. The patient should be treated for hypoglycemia and then counseled on preventing further low-sugar episodes. Only through patient education can the side effects be limited, and as with any medication, acarbose management is best by an interprofessional healthcare team across various disciplines, who engage in open communication with other team members regarding any changes in the patient's status so appropriate corrective action can be taken if necessary.