Medicine Information

Dia-M

Name: Dia-M
Brand: Dia-M
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet500 mgAntidiabeticATC: A10BA02

Generic Name

dia-m-500-mg-tablet

Manufacturer

Example Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

Loading images...

Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dia m 500 mg tablet	৳ 1.10	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dia-M 500 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps to lower blood glucose levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity.

Uses & Indications

Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients, when diet and exercise alone do not provide adequate glycemic control.

Can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or insulin.

Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) (off-label use).

Dosage

Adults

Initial dose is typically 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. May be gradually increased to a maximum of 2000-2550 mg/day in divided doses. Extended-release formulations may be taken once daily.

Elderly

Elderly patients should be started on conservative doses, and renal function should be closely monitored due to increased risk of lactic acidosis.

Renal_impairment

Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²). Dose adjustment required for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73 m² (e.g., maximum 1000 mg/day).

How to Take

Take orally with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.

Mechanism of Action

Metformin primarily acts by decreasing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis) and increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues (skeletal muscle and adipose tissue), leading to increased glucose uptake and utilization. It also reduces glucose absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within hours of administration, full effect seen over several days to weeks.

Excretion

Renal excretion, predominantly by active tubular secretion.

Half life

Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours.

Absorption

Absolute bioavailability is 50-60%. Food decreases the extent and slightly delays the absorption of Metformin.

Metabolism

Metformin is excreted unchanged in the urine; it does not undergo hepatic metabolism (no CYP450 involvement) nor biliary excretion.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Metformin or any component of the formulation.
Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma.
Acute myocardial infarction, septicemia, or other conditions associated with hypoxemia.
Severe hepatic impairment.

Drug Interactions

Alcohol

Increases the risk of lactic acidosis.

Cimetidine

Increases Metformin plasma concentration.

Iodinated contrast agents

Risk of lactic acidosis; temporarily discontinue Metformin before or at the time of the procedure and for 48 hours after.

Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides)

May reduce the renal clearance of Metformin or increase blood glucose levels.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Overdose of Metformin primarily leads to lactic acidosis. Treatment involves supportive measures, correction of acidosis, and hemodialysis for severe cases to remove Metformin and lactate.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Limited data suggest Metformin may be used to manage gestational diabetes or type 2 diabetes during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks, under strict medical supervision. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into breast milk. Monitor infants for adverse effects. Consult a physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box (3 strips of 10)

Shelf Life

24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture

Availability

Available in pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by relevant regulatory authorities

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Metformin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing type 2 diabetes. Ongoing research continues to explore its potential benefits in other conditions.

Lab Monitoring

Renal function (eGFR) should be assessed before initiating Metformin and at least annually thereafter. More frequent monitoring is required for elderly patients or those with risk factors for renal impairment.
Hematologic parameters (e.g., Vitamin B12 levels) should be monitored periodically, especially in patients with anemia or risk factors for B12 deficiency.

Doctor Notes

Before prescribing, assess renal function (eGFR) and continue monitoring annually or more frequently as clinically indicated.
Advise patients on the symptoms of lactic acidosis and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
Consider vitamin B12 supplementation or monitoring in patients on long-term Metformin therapy, especially those with neuropathy or anemia.

Patient Guidelines

Take Metformin regularly as prescribed by your doctor.
Always take Metformin with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of lactic acidosis (e.g., unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual stomach discomfort, dizziness).
Do not stop taking Metformin without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

Metformin monotherapy does not typically cause hypoglycemia, so it is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetic agents that can cause hypoglycemia, or if you experience dizziness, caution is advised.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine as advised by your healthcare provider.
Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as instructed.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.