Metfar
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 |
|---|---|---|
| metfar 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.50 | ৳ 45.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metformin is an oral antidiabetic medicine used to manage type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood glucose levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver, decreasing glucose absorption, and increasing insulin sensitivity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 500 mg twice daily with meals or 850 mg once daily with meals. Max 2550 mg/day.
Elderly
Dosage adjustments may be needed based on renal function. Start with lower doses.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Reduce dose for eGFR 30-45 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically within a few days, full effect in 1-2 weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Approximately 6.2 hours (plasma), 17.6 hours (blood).
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60%. Food slightly delays and decreases the extent of absorption.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
May increase metformin plasma concentration.
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, in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture.
Overdose
Lactic acidosis is the most common and serious complication of metformin overdose. Hemodialysis is the most effective method to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. Insulin is generally preferred for diabetes management in pregnancy. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Monitor infant for adverse effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
May increase metformin plasma concentration.
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, in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture.
Overdose
Lactic acidosis is the most common and serious complication of metformin overdose. Hemodialysis is the most effective method to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. Insulin is generally preferred for diabetes management in pregnancy. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Monitor infant for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating efficacy and safety in Type 2 Diabetes management.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) at baseline and annually.
- Blood glucose (fasting and postprandial) and HbA1c.
- Vitamin B12 levels, especially in long-term users.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor renal function carefully, especially in elderly patients.
- Educate patients on symptoms of lactic acidosis.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food to minimize GI upset.
- Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor.
- Be aware of symptoms of lactic acidosis (e.g., unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, unusual tiredness, dizziness).
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no direct effect. However, if hypoglycemia occurs (rare with monotherapy), driving should be avoided.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
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