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 850 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metfar 850 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medicine used to control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in those who are overweight and diet and exercise alone have not been enough. It is often used with other antidiabetic medications or insulin.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 500 mg or 850 mg once daily with the main meal. Dose should be increased gradually. Maximum recommended dose is 2550 mg daily, given in 3 divided doses (e.g., 850 mg three times daily). For Metfar 850 mg, it is usually taken 1-2 times daily with meals.
Elderly
Elderly patients should start with a lower initial dose, and renal function should be closely monitored due to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Renal_impairment
Metformin is contraindicated if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dose adjustment required if eGFR is 30-60 mL/min/1.73m² (e.g., max 1000 mg/day). Regular monitoring of renal function is essential.
How to Take
Take Metfar 850 mg Tablet orally, with or just after meals. This helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works by reducing glucose production by the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It does not stimulate insulin secretion and therefore does not cause hypoglycemia in monotherapy.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial effects on blood glucose are typically seen within a few days, with full therapeutic effects observed after several weeks of consistent use.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via the renal route as unchanged drug. Renal clearance is approximately 3.5 times higher than creatinine clearance.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 4-9 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60% when administered under fasting conditions. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized by the liver; it is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation.
- •Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- •Severe renal failure (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²).
- •Acute conditions with potential for renal impairment (e.g., dehydration, severe infection, shock).
- •Acute or chronic disease which may cause tissue hypoxia (e.g., cardiac failure, respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock).
- •Hepatic insufficiency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration by decreasing its renal clearance. Consider dose reduction.
Iodinated contrast agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the imaging procedure in patients with an 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. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure, and restart metformin if renal function is stable.
Diuretics (especially loop diuretics)
May increase the risk of lactic acidosis by potentially impairing renal function.
Corticosteroids, Sympathomimetics, Thiazides
These drugs can increase blood glucose levels, potentially requiring an adjustment in metformin dosage.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, a serious medical emergency requiring immediate hospitalization. Symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle pain, rapid shallow breathing, drowsiness, and low body temperature. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive, with hemodialysis being highly effective in removing metformin from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Limited data suggest metformin may be used in pregnancy when clinically needed, but insulin is generally preferred. For lactation, metformin is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Consult a doctor before use while breastfeeding. Potential risks versus benefits should be discussed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Refer to the specific packaging for exact expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
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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