Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are used to treat which condition?

• A. Type 1 Diabetes
• B. Gestational Diabetes
• C. Impaired Glucose Tolerance
• D. Type 2 Diabetes

Answer: (D)

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors work by blocking the intestinal enzymes that break down carbohydrates, slowing digestion and blunting the rise in blood glucose after meals. This makes them useful as an add-on therapy in adults with type 2 diabetes to improve postprandial glucose control, often alongside other treatments. They aren’t used for type 1 diabetes, where insulin deficiency is the primary issue, and they aren’t standard for gestational diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance, which are managed primarily with lifestyle changes and different medications when needed. Common side effects include gas, bloating, and diarrhea from fermentation of undigested carbohydrates.