Orally active α-glucosidase inhibitor (IC50 values are 3.9 and 6.4 nM at sucrase and maltase respectively). Increases glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) secretion and decreases food consumption in ob/ob mice, and reduces plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides and insulin in Wistar fatty rats. Exhibits antidiabetic and antiobesity activity in vivo.