Generic

Metformin Hydrochloride

Description

Metfo 850 is an oral antihyperglycemic agent for treating Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the biguanide class and works by reducing hepatic glucose production, lowering intestinal glucose absorption, and improving insulin sensitivity. Unlike sulfonylureas, Metfo 850 does not stimulate insulin secretion, making it a low-risk option for hypoglycemia. It is particularly beneficial for overweight or obese diabetic patients.

Benefits

Metfo 850 effectively lowers blood glucose levels while helping weight management in overweight, diabetic individuals. It improves insulin sensitivity, reduces the risk of diabetes complications, and does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone. Long-term use of Metformin has been linked to lower cardiovascular risks in diabetic patients.

Ingredients

Each Metfo 850 tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride 850mg, an oral glucose-lowering agent from the biguanide class.

Uses and Doses

Metfo 850 is prescribed to manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus when diet and exercise alone fail to control blood glucose levels. It can be used alone or with insulin or other oral diabetes medications.

• Adults (Immediate Release Tablets):
  • Starting dose: 850mg once daily with meals.
  • Dose adjustments: Increase by 850mg every two 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 nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach discomfort, bloating, loss of appetite, taste disturbances, and reduced vitamin B12 levels. In rare cases, lactic acidosis may occur, which requires immediate medical attention.

How to Use

Take Metfo 850 with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort and improve absorption. Extended-release tablets should be taken once daily in the evening. Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential to ensure effective diabetes management.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk of congenital malformations and perinatal mortality. Insulin is the preferred treatment during pregnancy for optimal blood glucose control.
• Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted in breast milk, but no adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants.  Due to limited data, a doctor's consultation is recommended before using Metfo 850 while nursing.

Precautions and Warnings

• Renal Function: Metformin is eliminated via the kidneys, and renal function should be assessed before starting treatment and periodically thereafter.
• Lactic Acidosis Risk: Avoid Metfo 850 in severe renal impairment, dehydration, heart failure, liver disease, or conditions that increase tissue hypoxia.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use may reduce vitamin B12 levels, requiring periodic monitoring.

Safety Information

Metfo 850 is contraindicated in individuals with:

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

Indications

Metfo 850 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 when monotherapy is insufficient.
• Prevention of diabetes-related complications in overweight individuals.

Pharmacology

Metformin works by:

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

Unlike sulfonylureas, Metformin 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 850 be taken on an empty stomach?
Metfo 850 should always be taken with food to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.

Q2: Can Metfo 850 be used for weight loss?
Metformin is not a weight-loss drug but can aid in weight management in overweight Type 2 diabetic patients.

Q3: How long does it take for Metfo 850 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.

 

 

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