Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Comparator: voglibose

Voglibose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that slows the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine, reducing postprandial blood glucose levels.

Voglibose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that slows the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine, reducing postprandial blood glucose levels. Used for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Voglibose competitively inhibits enzymes (alpha-glucosidase, alpha-amylase) responsible for breaking down disaccharides and complex carbohydrates into monosaccharides. By delaying carbohydrate digestion and absorption, it reduces the postprandial glucose spike in patients with type 2 diabetes. This mechanism helps improve glycemic control without stimulating insulin secretion.

Approved indications

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Common side effects

• Gastrointestinal disturbances (flatulence, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation

Key clinical trials

• Glycaemic & Cardiovascular Treatment Outcomes of Voglibose Vs Glibenclamide Added to Metformin in T2DM Patients (PHASE3)
• MK0431/ONO-5435 Phase III Clinical Trial -Add-on to Voglibose Study for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (MK0431-104) (PHASE3)
• A Study of Sitagliptin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Have Inadequate Glycemic Control on Diet/Exercise Therapy (0431-054)(COMPLETED) (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

• Comparator: voglibose CI brief — competitive landscape report
• Comparator: voglibose updates RSS · CI watch RSS
• Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC portfolio CI