Radimet
Generic Name
Metformin Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| radimet 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Radimet 500 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medication used to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 500 mg orally twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals. May be increased by 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a maximum of 2000-2550 mg/day in divided doses.
Elderly
Start with lower doses due to potential decreased renal function; maximum dose should be carefully titrated.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m². Dose adjustment required for eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take Radimet 500 mg Tablet orally with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin decreases 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.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Full therapeutic effect achieved over several days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the urine; renal elimination is complete within 24 hours.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 4-9 hours.
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60%. Absorption is incomplete and delayed by food.
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
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Acute heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration.
Corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose, requiring metformin dose adjustment.
Iodinated contrast agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure in patients with eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m², a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure.
Diuretics (thiazide, loop)
May reduce metformin's glucose-lowering effect.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, characterized by dyspnea, abdominal pain, hypothermia, and coma. Management involves immediate hospitalization, hemodialysis to remove metformin, and symptomatic support.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Not preferred for use during pregnancy; insulin is generally recommended. Use with caution during lactation; consult a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Acute heart failure requiring pharmacological intervention
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
Increases metformin plasma concentration.
Corticosteroids
May increase blood glucose, requiring metformin dose adjustment.
Iodinated contrast agents
Temporarily discontinue metformin before or at the time of the procedure in patients with eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m², a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure.
Diuretics (thiazide, loop)
May reduce metformin's glucose-lowering effect.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of metformin can lead to lactic acidosis, characterized by dyspnea, abdominal pain, hypothermia, and coma. Management involves immediate hospitalization, hemodialysis to remove metformin, and symptomatic support.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Not preferred for use during pregnancy; insulin is generally recommended. Use with caution during lactation; consult a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Patent expired for generic Metformin
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metformin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing type 2 diabetes. Studies have also explored its role in PCOS and other conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) should be assessed before initiating and at least annually thereafter.
- HbA1c levels to monitor glycemic control.
- Vitamin B12 levels should be measured periodically, especially with long-term use.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of renal function monitoring (eGFR) prior to initiation and annually.
- Educate patients on the symptoms of lactic acidosis and when to seek immediate medical attention.
- Consider Vitamin B12 supplementation in patients on long-term metformin, especially those with pre-existing risk factors for deficiency.
Patient Guidelines
- Follow prescribed diet and exercise regimen.
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as instructed by your doctor.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially severe gastrointestinal distress or muscle pain, to your doctor immediately.
- Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Metformin generally does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone, so it typically does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetic agents, there may be a risk of hypoglycemia, which could affect driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sugar and saturated fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis.
- Stay hydrated.
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 Radimet Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
