Informet
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| informet 850 mg tablet | ৳ 4.50 | ৳ 45.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Informet 850 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in overweight patients, when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is typically 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily, taken with meals. Dosage may be gradually increased to a maximum of 2550 mg per day in divided doses. For 850 mg tablets, common dosage is 850 mg once or twice daily.
Elderly
Dose should be carefully titrated based on renal function, starting with lower doses. Monitor renal function regularly.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dose reduction required for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m² (e.g., maximum 1700 mg/day for eGFR 45-59, maximum 1000 mg/day for eGFR 30-44). Consult physician for specific guidance.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with food or immediately after meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. It decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It does not stimulate insulin secretion, thus it rarely causes hypoglycemia when used alone.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Glucose-lowering effects begin within days; full therapeutic effect typically observed within 1-2 weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine, primarily via renal tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 4-9 hours.
Absorption
Approximately 50-60% oral bioavailability. Peak plasma concentration reached in 2-3 hours for immediate release.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation
- Acute conditions with potential for renal function impairment (e.g., dehydration, severe infection, shock)
- Congestive heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
- Severe hepatic impairment, acute alcohol intoxication
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in fasting, malnourished, or hepatically impaired patients.
Iodinated Contrast Media
Temporarily discontinue metformin at the time of or prior to iodinated contrast imaging procedures and for at least 48 hours afterward. Re-evaluate renal function before restarting.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., Topiramate, Acetazolamide)
May increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Drugs that reduce metformin clearance (e.g., Cimetidine, Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Isavuconazole, Trimethoprim, Vandetanib)
May increase metformin levels and risk of lactic acidosis. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight 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 pain. Treatment involves immediate hospitalization, discontinuation of metformin, and supportive measures, including hemodialysis to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B/C. Generally, insulin is preferred for diabetes management during pregnancy. Metformin may be considered if insulin is not acceptable or provides inadequate glucose control. Small amounts of metformin are excreted into breast milk; however, it is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation
- Acute conditions with potential for renal function impairment (e.g., dehydration, severe infection, shock)
- Congestive heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
- Severe hepatic impairment, acute alcohol intoxication
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in fasting, malnourished, or hepatically impaired patients.
Iodinated Contrast Media
Temporarily discontinue metformin at the time of or prior to iodinated contrast imaging procedures and for at least 48 hours afterward. Re-evaluate renal function before restarting.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., Topiramate, Acetazolamide)
May increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Drugs that reduce metformin clearance (e.g., Cimetidine, Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Isavuconazole, Trimethoprim, Vandetanib)
May increase metformin levels and risk of lactic acidosis. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight 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 pain. Treatment involves immediate hospitalization, discontinuation of metformin, and supportive measures, including hemodialysis to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B/C. Generally, insulin is preferred for diabetes management during pregnancy. Metformin may be considered if insulin is not acceptable or provides inadequate glucose control. Small amounts of metformin are excreted into breast milk; however, it is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 to 3 years from manufacturing date, depending on specific manufacturer and formulation.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metformin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing type 2 diabetes. Studies like the UKPDS (United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study) established its role in reducing diabetes-related complications.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) at baseline and at least annually, more frequently in elderly or patients at risk.
- HbA1c levels regularly to assess glycemic control.
- Vitamin B12 levels periodically, especially in long-term users or those with risk factors for deficiency.
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients about the symptoms of lactic acidosis and emphasize prompt medical attention if they occur.
- Assess renal function (eGFR) before initiating metformin and at least annually thereafter.
- Consider vitamin B12 supplementation for patients on long-term metformin therapy, especially if experiencing neuropathy or anemia.
Patient Guidelines
- Take metformin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Take with meals to minimize stomach upset.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if you experience unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, or feel generally unwell, as these could be signs of lactic acidosis.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to compensate.
Driving Precautions
Metformin monotherapy does not usually 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, caution is advised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as instructed.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while on this medication.
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