Key takeaways
Acarbose (Precose) and NovoLog (insulin aspart) are both used to manage diabetes, but they work in different ways and have distinct characteristics. Acarbose is an oral medication taken with meals to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, which helps lower blood sugar levels after eating. It is available only as a generic medication. NovoLog, on the other hand, is a fast-acting insulin injected under the skin before meals to help your body absorb sugar from the bloodstream. It is available in both vials and prefilled pens. Acarbose is less likely to cause hypoglycemia when used alone, whereas NovoLog has a higher risk of causing low blood sugar and weight gain. Acarbose can cause side effects like gas and diarrhea, while NovoLog can lead to headaches and injection site reactions. Additionally, acarbose is not recommended for people with severe kidney problems, whereas NovoLog can be used by those with liver or kidney issues.
