[Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: a new therapeutic approach in diabetes and functional hypoglycemia]

Acarbose, a potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, represents a new concept for the treatment of metabolic disorders, and particularly diabetes mellitus. It slows the absorption kinetics of dietary carbohydrates by reversible competitive inhibition of alpha-glucosidase activity, and so reduces the post-prandial blood glucose increment and insulin response. For these reasons, the drug has been successfully used not only in the treatment of type I or type II diabetes, but also in the management of reactive hypoglycemias and dumping syndrome. In addition, some data suggest a possible role in the treatment of type IV hyperlipidemia. Because of the delay in absorption of oligo- and disaccharides resulting from its administration, a colic bacterial fermentation occurs, accounting for the frequent abdominal discomfort mentioned by the patients. These side effects would be lessened with the second generation glucosidase inhibitors now in progress.