Generic

Metformin Hydrochloride

Description

Metfo 500 is an oral antihyperglycemic medication for treating Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the biguanide class and is widely prescribed as a first-line treatment for individuals, especially those who are overweight or obese. The medication works by reducing hepatic glucose production, increasing insulin sensitivity, and improving glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Unlike sulfonylureas, Metformin does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone.

Benefits

Metfo 500 effectively lowers blood glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. It helps prevent diabetes-related complications, supports weight management, and can be used as monotherapy or combined with insulin or other oral diabetes medications. The long-term use of Metformin has been associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Ingredients

Each Metfo 500 tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride 500mg, an oral glucose-lowering agent from the biguanide class.

Uses and Doses

Metfo 500 is prescribed for Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children aged 10 years and older when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.

• Adults (Immediate Release Tablets):
  • Starting dose: 500mg twice daily or 850mg once daily with meals.
  • Dose adjustments: Increase by 500mg weekly or 850mg every 2 weeks, up to a maximum of 2000mg daily in divided doses.
  • Maximum dose: 2550mg daily in three divided doses if necessary.
• Adults (Extended-Release Tablets):
  • The starting dose is 500mg once daily with an evening meal.
  • Maximum dose: 2000mg once daily or 1000mg twice daily with meals.
• Children (10 years and older):
  • Starting dose: 500mg twice daily with meals.
  • Maximum dose: 2000mg daily in divided doses.
• Patients with Renal Impairment:
  • Not recommended if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m².
  • Use caution if eGFR is 30–45 mL/min/1.73m².

Metformin extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed, cut, or chewed.

Side Effects

Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, bloating, taste disturbances, and reduced vitamin B12 levels. In rare cases, lactic acidosis may occur, which requires immediate medical attention.

How to Use

Take Metfo 500 with meals to improve absorption and minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. The extended-release tablets should be taken once daily in the evening. To track progress, it is recommended that you monitor your blood sugar regularlys.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of congenital disabilities and perinatal mortality. Although Metformin has been used in pregnant women, insulin is the preferred treatment for optimal glucose control during pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: Metformin is present in breast milk, but no harmful effects have been observed in breastfed infants. However, due to limited data, breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before use.

Precautions and Warnings

• Renal Function: Metformin is excreted through the kidneys, so renal function should be monitored before starting treatment and periodically thereafter.
• Lactic Acidosis Risk: This medication should be avoided in severe renal impairment, dehydration, heart failure, or liver disease, as these conditions increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use of Metformin may lead to reduced vitamin B12 absorption, requiring periodic monitoring.

Safety Information

Metfo 500 is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Severe renal failure (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²).
• Acute metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis and lactic acidosis).
• Severe dehydration, severe infections, or conditions leading to tissue hypoxia (e.g., heart failure, myocardial infarction, respiratory failure, or shock).
• Liver disease or chronic alcoholism.

Indications

Metfo 500 is indicated for:

• First-line treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children (10 years and older).
• Combination therapy with insulin or other oral diabetes medications for improved glycemic control.
• Prevention of diabetes-related complications in overweight patients.

Pharmacology

Metformin works by:

• Reducing hepatic glucose production.
• Decreasing intestinal glucose absorption.
• Increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues.

Unlike sulfonylureas, Metformin does not stimulate insulin secretion and does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone.

Therapeutic Class

Biguanides (Oral Antihyperglycemic Agents).

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

3 FAQ

Q1: Can Metfo 500 be taken on an empty stomach?
No, Metfo 500 should always be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Q2: Can Metfo 500 be used for weight loss?
Metformin is not a weight-loss drug but can help with weight management in overweight Type 2 diabetic patients.

Q3: How long does it take for Metfo 500 to start working?
Metformin starts reducing blood glucose levels within a few days, but the full effects are usually seen within 1–2 weeks.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting any medication.

 

 

 

Keywords: Metformin, Metfo 500, diabetes medication, type 2 diabetes, blood sugar control, biguanide, insulin resistance, oral diabetes drug, weight management, glucose metabolism, Pacific Pharmaceuticals, hypoglycemia prevention, diabetic therapy, antihyperglycemic agent, prediabetes treatment, glucose absorption reduction, diabetes care, metabolic health, sugar level control, diabetic management.