What is the mechanism of action of acarbose?

Acarbose works by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, which is an enzyme present in the intestine that plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates. By blocking this enzyme, acarbose slows down the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars, leading to a more gradual absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This mechanism helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals, making it particularly useful for managing postprandial blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

The action of acarbose aligns with its therapeutic purpose, which is to improve glycemic control in diabetic patients without causing an increase in insulin secretion or enhancing glucose utilization directly. It does not suppress appetite, which means that while it helps manage blood glucose levels effectively, it does not tackle weight management directly. Thus, its primary and distinct mechanism of action is indeed the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase.