Clinic Diabetes

1.3 AGI-Counselling_Interventions

Side effects include bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. These are common due to the nature of how the medication works and are dose dependent.


A diet lower in complex carbohydrates and cane sugar (sucrose) may reduce the side effect prolife.

  • Dose should be taken immediately before meals or with the first mouthful, up to three times a day.
  • If gastrointestinal side effects are common, referral to a dietitian trained in diabetes management should be considered.
  • Diabetes MedsCheck with counselling on side effect profile.

Acarbose does not cause hypoglycaemia, however, if used in conjunction with insulin or sulfonylureas can result in hypoglycaemia.

  • Use glucose to treat low blood glucose levels (under 4mmol/L). NOT sucrose since treatment will be delayed if sucrose is chosen.
  • Diabetes MedsCheck with counselling on managing hypoglycaemia.
  • Referral pathway for glucose monitoring.

Acarbose is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 25 mL/min).

  • Annual cycle of care-renal check.
  • Diabetes MedsCheck with referral for annual cycle of care - renal check.

Acarbose may affect digoxin availability

  • Diabetes MedsCheck with counselling on potential interactions.