Gluconor
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Gluconor (Metformin Hydrochloride) is an oral antidiabetic medication used to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in overweight patients.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals, gradually increasing to a maximum of 2000-2550 mg/day.
Elderly
Lower initial doses and careful titration due to potential decreased renal function.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²; dose adjustment needed for eGFR 30-45 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally with meals, usually with the morning and evening meals, to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works by decreasing glucose production by the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours
Excretion
Renal excretion (unchanged in urine).
Half life
Approximately 6.2 hours (plasma), 17.6 hours (blood)
Absorption
Absolute bioavailability is 50-60%. Food slightly decreases absorption.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in humans.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Iodinated contrast agents
Risk of lactic acidosis due to acute renal function changes; discontinue before or at the time of procedure.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis. Treatment involves hemodialysis to remove metformin and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally, insulin is preferred for gestational diabetes. Metformin may be used in some cases after careful consideration of risks and benefits. Small amounts pass into breast milk; monitor infants for hypoglycemia.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Iodinated contrast agents
Risk of lactic acidosis due to acute renal function changes; discontinue before or at the time of procedure.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis. Treatment involves hemodialysis to remove metformin and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally, insulin is preferred for gestational diabetes. Metformin may be used in some cases after careful consideration of risks and benefits. Small amounts pass into breast milk; monitor infants for hypoglycemia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metformin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in reducing HbA1c, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes patients.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) before initiation and annually thereafter
- Blood glucose levels
- HbA1c levels every 3-6 months
- Vitamin B12 levels (especially with long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize renal function monitoring, especially in elderly patients.
- Counsel patients on symptoms of lactic acidosis.
- Consider Vitamin B12 supplementation for long-term users.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food to minimize stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Report any unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or stomach discomfort immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Metformin alone does not cause hypoglycemia, so it is unlikely to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetic agents that can cause hypoglycemia, caution is advised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen as advised by your doctor.
- Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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