Acarbose

Acarbose (50 mg) is a microbial pseudotetrasaccharide competitive alpha-glucosidase and pancreatic alpha-amylase inhibitor on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It retards digestion of complex starches and sucrose in the upper jejunum, shifting carbohydrate digestion to the lower bowel and blunting postprandial glycemic excursions. Indicated for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Acarbose (50 mg) is a microbial pseudotetrasaccharide competitive alpha-glucosidase and pancreatic alpha-amylase inhibitor on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It retards digestion of complex starches and sucrose in the upper jejunum, shifting carbohydrate digestion to the lower bowel and blunting postprandial glycemic excursions. Indicated for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Metformin Hydrochloride is the foundational first-line biguanide oral antihyperglycemic agent on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the liver, suppressing mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I, thereby potently inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, while stimulating peripheral glucose uptake into skeletal muscle and delaying intestinal glucose absorption. Does not stimulate beta-cell insulin secretion, having zero intrinsic hypoglycemia risk and promoting weight neutrality or mild weight loss. Indicated as the initial pharmacological drug of choice for type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children aged 10 and older, and off-label in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).