Acarbose: Avoid taking acarbose with medications that lower blood sugar, including insulin and other oral hypoglycemics like sulfonylureas (e. g., glipizide). This combination increases your risk of dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Also, be cautious when combining acarbose with medications metabolized in the gut, as acarbose can affect their absorption. Consult your doctor before combining acarbose with any other medication.
Acarbose and Specific Medications
Specific examples include certain antibiotics (like ciprofloxacin), antifungal medications (like ketoconazole), and some heart medications (such as beta-blockers). Acarbose may reduce the effectiveness of these drugs, necessitating a dosage adjustment or an alternative treatment. Always inform your physician of all medications you are taking.
Metformin: Metformin interacts significantly with medications affecting kidney function. Avoid combining metformin with drugs that can impair kidney function, including certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), iodinated contrast dyes used in medical imaging, and some diuretics. Impaired kidney function elevates your risk of developing metformin-associated lactic acidosis, a serious condition. Close monitoring of kidney function is necessary when taking metformin concurrently with these medications.
Metformin and Alcohol
Alcohol consumption should be limited while taking metformin. Combining metformin with excessive alcohol increases the risk of lactic acidosis. Consult your physician about safe alcohol consumption limits while on metformin.
