Precose (generic: acarbose) is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Precose belongs to a group of drugs called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, which work by slowing the action of certain chemicals that break down food to release sugar into your blood. Slowing food digestion helps keep blood sugars from rising very high after meals.

This medication comes in tablet form and is taken up to 3 times a day at the start (with the first bite) of each main meal.

Common side effects of Precose include stomach pain, diarrhea, and gas.