Obemet
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| obemet 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
| obemet 850 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Obemet (Metformin Hydrochloride) is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production by the liver. It is often prescribed for overweight patients when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. May be gradually increased to a maximum of 2000 mg per day.
Elderly
Lower initial doses and careful titration are recommended due to potential decreased renal function.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²). Dose adjustment is necessary in moderate impairment.
How to Take
Take orally with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow tablets whole, do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin primarily works by decreasing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis), decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is gradual, with full therapeutic effects seen after several days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted primarily by the kidneys as unchanged drug.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 6.2 hours.
Absorption
Absorbed slowly and incompletely from the gastrointestinal tract. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 50-60%.
Metabolism
Metformin is excreted unchanged in the urine; it does not undergo hepatic metabolism.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
- •Metabolic acidosis (e.g., lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- •Known hypersensitivity to metformin or any component of the formulation.
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.
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. Treatment involves supportive measures, correction of acidosis, and hemodialysis for severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data on use during pregnancy; generally, insulin is preferred for glycemic control in pregnant women with diabetes. Consult a doctor. Metformin is excreted into breast milk; risks vs. benefits should be weighed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored properly.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA/DGDA
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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