Precose (Acarbose) is used with a proper exercise and diet program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Proper control of diabetes may lessen your risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Precose belongs to a class of drugs called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. It works in your intestines to slow the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from foods that you eat. This keeps your blood sugar from going up too high after you eat.

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Seek emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. The common side effects of Precose may include bloating, gas, mild diarrhea, mild skin rash or itching, and stomach discomfort.

Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these serious side effects:
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding;
• Liver problems;
• Severe constipation;
• Severe stomach pain, watery or bloody diarrhea

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.

You should not use Precose if you are allergic to Acarbose or if you have:
• A blockage in your intestines;
• A digestive disorder affecting your intestines;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis;
• Inflammatory bowel disease;
• Intestinal ulcer

Prior to taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have a bowel or intestinal disorder, a stomach disorder, liver disease and kidney disease. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, nonprescription, herbal products, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Precose and other medications. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can lower your blood sugar. Avoid taking a digestive enzyme at the same time as Precose because it can make it harder for your body to absorb this medicine. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Precose is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years of age.

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