Metformin
Generic Name
Metformin 850 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Multiple manufacturers
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meformin 850 mg tablet | ৳ 3.01 | ৳ 30.10 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metformin 850 mg is an oral antidiabetic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in overweight patients, when diet and exercise alone do not provide adequate glycemic control. It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals. Dosage can be gradually increased. The 850 mg tablet is commonly taken once or twice daily. Maximum recommended dose is 2550 mg/day.
Elderly
Start with lower doses and monitor renal function closely due to potential for decreased renal function. Maximum dose should be carefully considered.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dose adjustment needed for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m². Do not initiate if eGFR 30-45 mL/min/1.73m². If eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73m² while on metformin, assess benefits and risks.
How to Take
Oral. Take with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin decreases 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.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is gradual, with significant glucose-lowering effects typically observed within days to weeks of starting treatment.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine. Renal clearance is approximately 3.5 times greater than creatinine clearance, indicating active tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours. In blood, the half-life is approximately 17.6 hours.
Absorption
Approximately 50-60% absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration. Bioavailability is 50-60%. Food delays and slightly decreases the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in the liver (no hepatic metabolism) and is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- •Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma
- •Known hypersensitivity to metformin
- •Acute heart failure, severe cardiovascular collapse (shock), acute myocardial infarction, septicaemia or other conditions predisposing to lactic acidosis
- •Hepatic impairment, alcoholism
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Iodinated contrast agents
Discontinue metformin before or at the time of an iodinated contrast imaging procedure and for at least 48 hours afterward. Re-evaluate renal function before resuming metformin.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide)
May increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cationic drugs (e.g., cimetidine, ranitidine, amiloride, triamterene)
May increase metformin plasma concentration by competing for renal tubular transport.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Metformin overdose can lead to lactic acidosis, especially in the presence of predisposing factors. Symptoms may include malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress. Management involves supportive care and immediate hemodialysis, which is the most effective way to remove lactate and metformin from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks, but insulin is often preferred for glycemic control. Low levels of metformin are excreted in breast milk; generally considered compatible with breastfeeding with caution and monitoring of infant for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific manufacturer and formulation.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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