Informet
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| informet 500 mg tablet | ৳ 3.00 | ৳ 30.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Informet 500 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage blood glucose levels in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It is often used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. May be gradually increased up to a maximum of 2000-2550 mg daily in divided doses, or as directed by physician.
Elderly
Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Initiate with a low dose and monitor renal function frequently.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m². Dose reduction required if eGFR is 30-60 mL/min/1.73 m².
How to Take
Take orally with food, preferably with breakfast and/or dinner, to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works by decreasing hepatic glucose production, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours, full effect takes days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted predominantly unchanged in the urine.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.5 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60%. Food slightly delays and decreases the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in the liver; excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²)
- Metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
- Dehydration, acute heart failure, severe infection, acute myocardial infarction
- Hypersensitivity to metformin or any of the excipients
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration.
Corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose levels.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure in patients with eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m².
Diuretics (Thiazides, Loop Diuretics)
May increase blood glucose levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis, which is a medical emergency. Treatment involves supportive measures, correction of acidosis, and hemodialysis for metformin removal.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Consult your doctor before using during pregnancy. Limited data suggest metformin is excreted in breast milk; consult a doctor for advice during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²)
- Metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis)
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
- Dehydration, acute heart failure, severe infection, acute myocardial infarction
- Hypersensitivity to metformin or any of the excipients
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration.
Corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose levels.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure in patients with eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m².
Diuretics (Thiazides, Loop Diuretics)
May increase blood glucose levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis, which is a medical emergency. Treatment involves supportive measures, correction of acidosis, and hemodialysis for metformin removal.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Consult your doctor before using during pregnancy. Limited data suggest metformin is excreted in breast milk; consult a doctor for advice during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the manufacturing date, as indicated on the packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA and international regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of metformin in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, including studies on long-term cardiovascular outcomes.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) should be assessed before initiating Informet and at least annually thereafter.
- Vitamin B12 levels should be monitored periodically, especially in patients on long-term therapy or with risk factors for deficiency.
- Blood glucose levels and HbA1c should be regularly monitored to assess glycemic control.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications alongside medication.
- Educate patients on symptoms of lactic acidosis and when to seek emergency care.
- Regularly assess renal function and Vitamin B12 levels, especially in elderly patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Informet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Follow a healthy diet and regular exercise program.
- Be aware of the symptoms of lactic acidosis and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
- Do not stop taking Informet without consulting your doctor.
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 usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Informet monotherapy generally does not cause hypoglycemia, so it typically does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetic agents, the risk of hypoglycemia may increase, which could impair driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
- Engage in regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as advised by your doctor.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
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