Emfogen M XR
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride (Extended Release)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| emfogen m xr 5 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 120.00 |
| emfogen m xr 10 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 180.00 |
| emfogen m xr 25 mg tablet | ৳ 45.00 | ৳ 270.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Emfogen M XR contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps to lower blood glucose levels.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg XR once daily with the evening meal. Dose may be increased gradually by 500 mg weekly to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily. For some patients, 1000 mg twice daily may be considered.
Elderly
Elderly patients should be started on a lower dose, and renal function should be closely monitored due to potential for decreased renal function with age.
Renal_impairment
Metformin is contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dosage adjustment is required for patients with eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m², and initiating metformin is not recommended if eGFR is 30-45 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally, once daily with the evening meal. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works by decreasing hepatic glucose production (glucose synthesis in the liver), decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of glucose-lowering effect is gradual, typically within days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine, mainly by renal tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours; blood half-life is approximately 17.6 hours, suggesting that the erythrocyte mass may be a compartment of distribution.
Absorption
Metformin XR is slowly and incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Food can increase the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in humans.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²).
- •Known hypersensitivity to metformin hydrochloride.
- •Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis.
- •Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma.
- •Acute or chronic conditions which may cause tissue hypoxia (e.g., cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock).
- •Severe liver impairment.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73m², in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast agents. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure, and restart metformin if renal function is stable.
Diuretics, Corticosteroids, Sympathomimetics
May decrease the glycemic control effect of metformin.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, zonisamide)
May increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cationic drugs (e.g., cimetidine, amiloride, digoxin, morphine)
May increase metformin levels by competing for renal tubular secretion.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress. Treatment involves supportive measures and hemodialysis for rapid removal of metformin and correction of acidosis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Metformin crosses the placenta. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Insulin is generally preferred for the management of gestational diabetes. Metformin is excreted into breast milk; however, the amount is usually considered low. Discuss with a healthcare provider before breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture. Refer to the specific product packaging for exact details.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals in Bangladesh
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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