Wellmet
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 |
|---|---|---|
| wellmet 850 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Wellmet 850 mg Tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride, an oral antidiabetic medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in overweight patients. It helps lower blood glucose levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily with meals, gradually increasing to 850 mg two or three times daily. Max 2550 mg/day.
Elderly
Initiate with lower doses and monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m². Dosage adjustment needed if eGFR 30-60 mL/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically within a few days, full effect in 1-2 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half life
Approximately 6.2 hours (plasma), 17.6 hours (blood).
Absorption
Oral bioavailability is 50-60%. Food decreases the extent and slightly delays the absorption of metformin.
Metabolism
Not metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute heart failure, severe infection, acute myocardial infarction, severe dehydration, liver failure
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
May increase metformin plasma concentration.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Temporarily discontinue metformin at or prior to the procedure.
Diuretics (especially loop diuretics)
May increase 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
Lactic acidosis is a serious complication. Management involves hemodialysis to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category B (no evidence of risk in humans). Use only if clearly needed. Metformin is excreted into human milk. Weigh benefits against risks.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis
- Hypersensitivity to metformin
- Acute heart failure, severe infection, acute myocardial infarction, severe dehydration, liver failure
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis.
Cimetidine
May increase metformin plasma concentration.
Iodinated Contrast Agents
May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Temporarily discontinue metformin at or prior to the procedure.
Diuretics (especially loop diuretics)
May increase 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
Lactic acidosis is a serious complication. Management involves hemodialysis to remove metformin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category B (no evidence of risk in humans). Use only if clearly needed. Metformin is excreted into human milk. Weigh benefits against risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated metformin's efficacy and safety in managing type 2 diabetes.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (eGFR) before initiation and at least annually thereafter. More frequently in elderly.
- Vitamin B12 levels, especially with long-term use.
- Blood glucose levels (HbA1c).
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of patient education regarding lactic acidosis symptoms.
- Regularly assess renal function, especially in elderly and those with comorbidities.
- Consider vitamin B12 supplementation for long-term metformin users.
Patient Guidelines
- Take medication consistently as prescribed.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially severe gastrointestinal upset or muscle pain.
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
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 the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Metformin alone does not cause hypoglycemia, so it typically does not affect driving ability. However, if used in combination with other antidiabetic agents that can cause hypoglycemia, or if experiencing symptoms of lactic acidosis, caution is advised.
Lifestyle Advice
- Follow a balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
- Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., 30 minutes brisk walking most days).
- Monitor blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor.
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