Acarbose

Flatulence (passing gas or wind) is a common side effect that patients experience with this medication. It may also cause stomach discomfort, bloating or diarrhoea. However, these symptoms should get better over time. Check with your doctor if any of these symptoms are serious or do not go away.​

Very rarely, this medication can injure or damage the liver. Stop this medication and see a doctor immediately if you notice dark brown urine or light coloured stools (pale grey/ clay coloured) , or if you experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain or yellowing of your eyes or skin.

​Inform your doctor if:

• you are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• you have a heart condition, kidney or liver problem
• you drink alcohol often
• you are eating less than usual due to sickness/ changed diet as your dosage may need to be changed

If your doctor has informed you that you need to do a fasting blood test, skip your medication until after you have your blood taken and are ready to eat.

​Avoid taking alcohol with this medication.                             

Avoid food and drink containing sucrose or cane sugar while you are on this medication, as they can often cause stomach discomfort and diarrhoea due to the increased carbohydrate breakdown in the large intestine.