Acarbose Precose
Nursing Considerations
WARNING Be aware that acarbose isn’t recommended
for patients with significant
renal dysfunction and a serum creatinine
level above 2 mg/dl.
• If patient is receiving acarbose and a sulfonylurea
or insulin to enhance glucose control,
check blood glucose level often, as
appropriate.
• Store drug in sealed container in cool
environment.
• Expect to decrease dosage to control GI
upset.
•Monitor glycosylated hemoglobin level as
ordered every 3 months for first year to
evaluate glucose control and patient compliance.
•Monitor hematocrit and serum AST level
every 3 months during first year of therapy
and periodically thereafter, as ordered,
because acarbose may decrease hematocrit
and increase serum AST level.
PATIENT TEACHING
• Explain importance of self-monitoring
glucose level during acarbose therapy.
• Teach patient to recognize hypoglycemia
and hyperglycemia.
•Warn patient that noncompliance with
treatment can increase risk of diabetic
complications, including neuropathy,
retinopathy, and renal insufficiency.
• Explain that temporary insulin therapy
may be needed if fever, trauma, infection,
illness, surgery, or other stress alters blood
glucose control.
•Warn patient not to take other drugs within
2 hours of acarbose unless specifically
instructed by prescriber.
• Tell him to consult prescriber before taking
OTC drugs during acarbose therapy.
• Advise patient who also takes another
antidiabetic to carry glucose with him at
all times in case hypoglycemia occurs.
