Precose is a prescription medication that is used to control blood sugar levels in patients who have type 2 diabetes. Precose contains acarbose and works by slowing down the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from your food. Precose may be prescribed as part of a diabetes treatment program that may include diet and exercise.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Precose should be taken with your first bite of the main meal.
• While taking acarbose, your blood sugar may need to be checked regularly.
• Precose may be prescribed as part of a diabetes treatment program that may also include regular blood sugar testing, diet, exercise, and weight control.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of liver disease, kidney disease, stomach disorder, intestinal disorder, bowel disorder, diabetic ketoacidosis, inflammatory bowel disease, cirrhosis of the liver, or an ulcer or blockage in your intestines.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

You should also know:

• Precose is not approved to be used by anyone younger than 18.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast-milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Precose.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Precose as it can lower your blood sugar.

Common side effects of Precose include but are not limited to:

• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Mild diarrhea.
• Stomach discomfort or gas.
• Bloating.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of acarbose.

• Bloody or watery diarrhea.
• Severe stomach pain.
• Severe constipation.
• Easy bruising or unusual bleeding.
• Red or purple spots under your skin.
• Signs of a liver problem including tiredness, upper stomach pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, itching, nausea, loss of appetite, or jaundice.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Precose?

If you miss a dose of Precose, you should take it as soon as you remember with a meal. Do not take Precose between meals.

What else is Precose called?

Precose is also known as Glucobay internationally. Glucobay is the same brand name medication with a different name internationally and is not a generic alternative medication.