Metlife
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Example Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| metlife 850 mg tablet | ৳ 4.01 | ৳ 40.10 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metlife 850 mg tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medicine used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps lower blood glucose levels by reducing glucose production in the liver, decreasing glucose absorption from the intestine, and improving insulin sensitivity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals. May be increased gradually to a maximum of 2550 mg daily in divided doses. Metlife 850 mg is often taken 1-2 times daily.
Elderly
Use with caution due to potential for decreased renal function; dose adjustment based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
eGFR 45-60 mL/min/1.73m²: Max 1000 mg/day. eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73m²: Contraindicated.
How to Take
Take orally with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works primarily by decreasing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis) through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). It also decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of glucose-lowering effect typically occurs within hours, full effect within days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine, primarily by renal tubular secretion.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours.
Absorption
Absolute bioavailability is 50-60%. Food delays absorption and decreases Cmax by about 35%.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Known hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis with or without coma
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration by decreasing renal clearance.
Contrast agents
Risk of lactic acidosis, discontinue metformin before procedure.
Diuretics, corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose, requiring dose adjustment of metformin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include lactic acidosis. Management involves immediate hemodialysis to remove metformin, and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally, insulin is preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. Metformin can be used if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Known hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis with or without coma
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration by decreasing renal clearance.
Contrast agents
Risk of lactic acidosis, discontinue metformin before procedure.
Diuretics, corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose, requiring dose adjustment of metformin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include lactic acidosis. Management involves immediate hemodialysis to remove metformin, and supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally, insulin is preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. Metformin can be used if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics worldwide
Approval Status
FDA approved (since 1995, widely approved globally)
Patent Status
Generic available (patent expired)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established metformin's efficacy and safety in type 2 diabetes. Major studies like the UKPDS have shown its cardiovascular benefits.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) at baseline and annually thereafter
- Vitamin B12 levels periodically
- Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) every 3-6 months
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient education on lactic acidosis symptoms.
- Regularly assess renal function and Vitamin B12 levels.
- Consider discontinuing metformin prior to procedures involving iodinated contrast agents.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Metlife with meals to reduce stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Report any unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or stomach discomfort to your doctor immediately (signs of lactic acidosis).
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 dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Metformin typically does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone, so it usually does not impair driving. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetics that can cause hypoglycemia, or if experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia, caution is advised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as advised by your doctor.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Metlife Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
