Obemet
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| obemet 850 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Obemet 850 mg Tablet is an oral anti-diabetic medicine containing Metformin Hydrochloride. It is primarily used to lower high blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in those who are overweight and do not achieve adequate glycemic control with diet and exercise alone. It can be used alone or in combination with other anti-diabetic medications or insulin.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. Gradually increase to a maximum of 2550 mg/day. For 850 mg strength, typically 850 mg once or twice daily with meals. Max 2550mg/day (e.g. 850mg three times daily).
Elderly
Caution advised. Dosage should be titrated slowly based on renal function. Initial doses are usually lower.
Renal_impairment
Metformin is contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²). Dose adjustment required for moderate renal impairment (eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m²).
How to Take
Take orally with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin works by decreasing 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
Onset of action is usually within days, with maximal effects observed within 2 weeks.
Excretion
Excreted renally as unchanged drug. Renal clearance is approximately 3.5 times higher than creatinine clearance, indicating tubular secretion.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life of Metformin is approximately 6.2 hours.
Absorption
Absolute bioavailability of a Metformin 500 mg tablet given under fasting conditions is approximately 50-60%. Food decreases the extent and slightly delays the absorption of Metformin.
Metabolism
Metformin is excreted unchanged in the urine and does not undergo hepatic metabolism (no CYP450 metabolism).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma)
- Hypersensitivity to Metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (e.g., lactic acidosis)
- Dehydration, severe infection, shock, acute heart failure
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue Metformin before or at the time of an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with impaired renal function, or those scheduled for arterial iodinated contrast studies.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., Topiramate, Acetazolamide)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine, Ranolazine, Dofetilide, Dolutegravir, Trimethoprim, Vandetanib
May increase Metformin levels, 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, a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization. Symptoms include profound malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress. Treatment is supportive, and hemodialysis may be effective for removing Metformin from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Limited data suggest Metformin use during pregnancy is generally safe for type 2 diabetes, but consult a doctor. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into human milk. Benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against potential risks to the infant. Consult a healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma)
- Hypersensitivity to Metformin
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (e.g., lactic acidosis)
- Dehydration, severe infection, shock, acute heart failure
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
Temporarily discontinue Metformin before or at the time of an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with impaired renal function, or those scheduled for arterial iodinated contrast studies.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., Topiramate, Acetazolamide)
May increase risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine, Ranolazine, Dofetilide, Dolutegravir, Trimethoprim, Vandetanib
May increase Metformin levels, 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, a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization. Symptoms include profound malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal distress. Treatment is supportive, and hemodialysis may be effective for removing Metformin from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Limited data suggest Metformin use during pregnancy is generally safe for type 2 diabetes, but consult a doctor. Lactation: Metformin is excreted into human milk. Benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against potential risks to the infant. Consult a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available (off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metformin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing type 2 diabetes and reducing cardiovascular events in overweight patients. Key studies include the UKPDS (United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study) which showed long-term benefits.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) at baseline and annually (more frequently for at-risk patients)
- Vitamin B12 levels (especially in long-term use or with neuropathy symptoms)
- Blood glucose levels (fasting and postprandial)
- HbA1c
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to report any symptoms of lactic acidosis (e.g., unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual drowsiness, stomach pain).
- Regular monitoring of renal function is crucial, especially in elderly patients and those with risk factors for renal impairment.
- Educate patients on lifestyle modifications alongside Metformin therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Obemet with meals to reduce stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine as advised by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Obemet (Metformin) monotherapy typically does not cause hypoglycemia and therefore usually does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if used in combination with other anti-diabetic agents that can cause hypoglycemia, caution is advised. Monitor for symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
- Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week).
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as advised by your doctor.
- Limit alcohol intake.
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