Acarbose Research Guide

Full name: Acarbose (Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitor)

An FDA-approved anti-diabetic drug that blunts post-meal glucose spikes. It has drawn strong interest from the longevity community after the NIA Interventions Testing Program (ITP) showed it extended lifespan in mice, especially males.

How Acarbose Works

Inhibits intestinal alpha-glucosidase enzymes, slowing the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into glucose. This flattens post-prandial glucose and insulin excursions and shifts undigested carbohydrate to the colon, feeding beneficial short-chain-fatty-acid-producing bacteria.

Dosing Protocol

• Typical dose: 25-100 mg per meal
• Frequency: With carbohydrate-containing meals
• Duration: Ongoing
• Route: Oral tablet

Reported Benefits

• Flattens post-meal glucose spikes
• Improves glycemic variability
• Longevity signal (ITP data)
• Feeds beneficial gut bacteria
• Modest weight support
• Minimal systemic absorption

Potential Side Effects

• Flatulence
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Rare liver enzyme elevation

Research Citations

1. Acarbose extends lifespan in mice (ITP) (2019) - Acarbose increased median lifespan, with a larger effect in males, in the NIA Interventions Testing Program.
2. Acarbose and glycemic variability (2020) - Reduced post-prandial glucose excursions and improved CGM-measured time-in-range.

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