Acarbose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used in type 2 diabetes, exerts its glucose-lowering effect by which mechanism?
- A Blocking sodium-glucose cotransport in the proximal renal tubule
- B Inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzymes at the intestinal brush border, delaying carbohydrate digestion ✓
- C Activating PPAR-gamma receptors in adipose tissue
- D Stimulating rapid-phase insulin secretion from beta cells
Correct answer: B. Inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzymes at the intestinal brush border, delaying carbohydrate digestion
Explanation
Acarbose competitively inhibits alpha-glucosidase enzymes (maltase, sucrase, glucoamylase) in the small intestinal brush border, delaying complex carbohydrate breakdown and glucose absorption. Option A describes SGLT2 inhibitors. Option C describes thiazolidinediones. Option D describes meglitinides or sulfonylureas.
Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.