Etform
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| etform 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
| etform 850 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Etform is an oral antidiabetic medicine containing Metformin Hydrochloride. It is used to lower blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in those who are overweight or obese, and when diet and exercise alone have not been sufficient. It can be used alone or in combination with other antidiabetic agents or insulin.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily, taken with meals. Gradually titrate up to a maximum of 2550 mg/day in divided doses.
Elderly
Dosage should be individualized based on renal function, starting with lower doses.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dose adjustment required for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It does not stimulate insulin secretion and, therefore, does not cause hypoglycemia in monotherapy.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Slow, typically within days to weeks for full therapeutic effect.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion (90% within 24 hours)
Half life
Approximately 4.0-8.7 hours (plasma elimination half-life)
Absorption
Absolute bioavailability of a 500 mg Metformin tablet taken under fasting conditions is approximately 50-60%. Food decreases the extent and slightly delays the absorption of Metformin.
Metabolism
Metformin is excreted unchanged in the urine; no hepatic metabolism or biliary excretion has been observed.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Renal disease or dysfunction (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- •Metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
- •Hypersensitivity to Metformin
- •Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis with or without coma
- •Lactic acidosis history
Drug Interactions
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Increased risk of lactic acidosis; discontinue metformin before or at the time of procedure and restart 48 hours later.
Cationic Drugs (e.g., amiloride, digoxin)
May compete for renal tubular transport, potentially increasing metformin levels.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., topiramate)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis. Treatment involves supportive measures, hemodialysis to remove metformin, and correcting acidosis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into breast milk; caution should be exercised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
More Medicines
Explore other medicines you might be interested in
