Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Definition: Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are a classification of oral diabetes medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. Glyset (miglitol) and Precose (acarbose) are the two most prescribed alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (aka "starch blockers"). These medications need to be taken at the beginning of each meal so that they can work to slow digestion, which in turn slows the rise of glucose in the blood. They are often prescribed in conjunction with other diabetes medications. These drugs may cause diarrhea or gas.