Metformin
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride 850 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Various Generic Manufacturers
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| metfomin 850 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 28.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metformin is an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients, when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. It helps lower blood glucose levels.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially, 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals. Dosage may be gradually increased based on glycemic response and tolerability. For 850 mg tablets, common dosing is 850 mg once or twice daily with meals. Maximum daily dose is 2550 mg for immediate-release formulations.
Elderly
Caution advised due to potential for decreased renal function. Start with lower initial doses and monitor renal function regularly. The lowest effective dose should be used.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Dose adjustment required for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73 m². Initiation is not recommended if eGFR is between 30-45 mL/min/1.73 m².
How to Take
Administer orally with meals (breakfast and/or dinner) to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin primarily works by decreasing hepatic glucose production, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It does not stimulate insulin secretion.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within a few hours. Full therapeutic effect may take up to 2 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine by active tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours, with a blood half-life of about 17.6 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is approximately 50-60%. Food can delay and slightly decrease its absorption. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 2-3 hours for immediate-release formulations.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in the liver (no hepatic metabolism) and is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²)
- •Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma
- •Known hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation
- •Severe congestive heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
- •Dehydration, acute myocardial infarction, septicaemia, or other conditions causing hypoxemia
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism and increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration by decreasing its renal clearance, potentially increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Iodinated contrast agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure and for 48 hours afterward to avoid lactic acidosis, especially in patients with renal impairment.
Corticosteroids, Sympathomimetics
May increase blood glucose, requiring dose adjustment of metformin.
Diuretics (thiazides, loop diuretics)
May reduce the glucose-lowering effect of metformin.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include severe tiredness, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, dizziness, and decreased body temperature. Treatment involves supportive measures and hemodialysis to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy is generally not recommended; insulin is often preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. Small amounts of metformin are excreted in breast milk; consult your doctor to weigh the benefits against potential risks to the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, as indicated on the packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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