Minirfor
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 |
|---|---|---|
| minirfor 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Minirfor 500 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic drug used to manage blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in those who are overweight or obese and where diet and exercise alone have failed.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. May be gradually increased to a maximum of 2500-3000 mg daily in divided doses.
Elderly
Initial dose 500 mg once daily, titrate cautiously. Monitor renal function closely.
Renal_impairment
Avoid if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m². Reduce dose if eGFR 30-45 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin reduces 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 and therefore does not cause hypoglycemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is usually within a few days, with full therapeutic effect seen within 2 weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine, primarily via renal tubular secretion.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours.
Absorption
Absolute bioavailability of a 500 mg tablet is approximately 50-60%. Food decreases the extent and slightly delays the absorption of Metformin.
Metabolism
Metformin is not metabolized in the liver (no hepatic metabolism).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to Metformin
- •Metabolic acidosis (e.g., lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis)
- •Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- •Severe liver impairment
- •Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis with or without coma
- •Heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
Drug Interactions
Iodinated contrast agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of an iodinated contrast imaging procedure and for 48 hours afterward.
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Corticosteroids, sympathomimetics, diuretics
May increase blood glucose, requiring metformin dose adjustment.
Cimetidine, trimethoprim, ranolazine, dolutegravir
Can increase metformin concentrations, increasing risk of lactic acidosis.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of Metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, which is a medical emergency and must be treated in a hospital. Symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle pain, hyperventilation, and extreme weakness. Hemodialysis may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Limited data. Use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into breast milk. Weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against potential risks to the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved (FDA, DGDA)
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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