Diafre
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| diafre 850 mg tablet | ৳ 3.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Diafre 850 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
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg once or twice daily, or 850 mg once daily, taken with meals. Dosage can be gradually increased to a maximum of 2550 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. For Diafre 850 mg, a common starting dose is one tablet (850 mg) once daily with dinner, or as directed by the physician.
Elderly
Careful titration of dose is required due to potential decrease in renal function. Initial dose should be conservative, and renal function should be monitored regularly.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²). Dose adjustment required for moderate renal impairment (eGFR 30-45 mL/min/1.73 m²).
How to Take
Take Diafre 850 mg tablet orally with meals, usually dinner, to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin primarily acts by decreasing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis) through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). It also reduces intestinal absorption of glucose and improves peripheral glucose uptake and utilization by enhancing insulin sensitivity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours, full effect seen over several days to weeks.
Excretion
Renal excretion. Approximately 90% of the absorbed drug is eliminated via the renal route within 24 hours.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60%. Food delays and slightly decreases the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in the liver. Excreted unchanged in the urine.
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.
- •Dehydration, acute heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, severe infection, or other conditions that may cause lactic acidosis.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
May increase metformin plasma concentrations by reducing renal clearance.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin at the time of or prior to an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m²; in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides)
May reduce metformin efficacy and worsen glycemic control.
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 can lead to lactic acidosis, a medical emergency. Symptoms include malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Treatment involves immediate discontinuation of metformin and supportive care, including hemodialysis for severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Consult a doctor. Generally, insulin is preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. Metformin may be considered in certain cases, but only under strict medical supervision. Small amounts of metformin are excreted in breast milk; monitor infants for hypoglycemia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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