Acarbose vs Bupropion SR

Mechanism

Acarbose is a complex oligosaccharide that competitively inhibits alpha-glucosidase enzymes (maltase, isomaltase, sucrase, glucoamylase) in the brush border of the small intestinal enterocytes, delaying the digestion and absorption of dietary carbohydrates. This blunts postprandial glucose and insulin spikes, reducing glycemic variability. In the longevity context, chronic postprandial glucose/insulin reduction mimics aspects of caloric restriction signaling, potentially reducing mTOR activation, AGE formation, and oxidative stress. Undigested carbohydrates reaching the colon serve as prebiotics, increasing short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production by gut bacteria.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 25-100 mg taken with the first bite of each carbohydrate-containing meal, up to 3 times daily.

Timing

Must be taken with the first bite of a carbohydrate-containing meal — timing is critical for mechanism of action. Ineffective if taken without carbohydrates or after the meal.

Cycle Duration

Ongoing for longevity applications. Long-term use is well-established in diabetes management.

Side Effects

• Flatulence and bloating (very common — from colonic fermentation of undigested carbohydrates)
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Elevated liver transaminases (rare, reversible — typically at doses >100 mg TID)

Contraindications

• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis)
• Intestinal obstruction or predisposition to obstruction
• Chronic intestinal diseases with maldigestion/malabsorption
• Severe renal impairment (creatinine >2.0 mg/dL)
• Cirrhosis
• Known hypersensitivity to acarbose
• GI intolerance
• IBD or bowel obstruction

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor used clinically for mood, motivation, and smoking cessation.

Contraindications

• Seizure disorders
• Eating disorders