Metopole Tablets (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The dosing regimen should be determined based on individual drug efficacy and tolerance and should not exceed the recommended maximum daily dose. This medication should be started at a low dose to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and determine the minimum effective dose needed for adequate blood sugar control, administered 500 mg with meals 2 to 3 times a day. Dosage increases should gradually occur by 500 mg weekly, and when reaching 2000 mg, it is generally divided into two doses in the morning and evening. When exceeding 2000 mg, it should be given in three divided doses with meals, and a maximum of 2550 mg may be administered daily. When initiating treatment and adjusting doses, fasting blood sugar levels should be measured to evaluate the therapeutic response to this medication and determine the minimum effective dose. Blood glycosylated hemoglobin levels should be measured every 3 months. The treatment goal for this medication is to achieve and maintain fasting blood sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin levels near normal via either monotherapy or in combination with sulfonylureas or insulin at the minimum effective dose. Generally, if a patient's blood sugar is managed solely through dietary measures but is temporarily uncontrolled, sufficient effectiveness can still be obtained through short-term administration of this medication.

Child dose

Can be used in children aged 10 years and older or adolescents. The usual initial dose is 500 mg once a day, taken during or after a meal. After a week, blood sugar levels should be measured to adjust the dosage.

This medication can cause severe lactic acidosis or hypoglycemia, so it must be used with caution. It should not be administered to patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, dehydration, severe infections, heart failure, or acute myocardial infarction. The medication should be temporarily discontinued before any tests involving iodine contrast agents and can be resumed after kidney function returns to normal. This medication is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to this drug or a history of type 1 diabetes or metabolic acidosis. If oral intake is difficult due to severe infections, trauma, or surgery, administration should be temporarily halted, and it can be resumed once the patient's condition improves. Patients with hepatic dysfunction or severe pulmonary function impairment should also avoid this medication. During pregnancy, it is not recommended in cases of placental insufficiency or preeclampsia risk and fetal growth should be closely monitored. Regular assessments of kidney function are necessary to prevent drug accumulation during treatment. Irregular meals, vigorous exercise, and concomitant use of other medications may increase the risk of lactic acidosis or hypoglycemia, so caution is advised. Alcohol may affect the lactate metabolism of this medication, and excessive drinking should be avoided. Symptoms such as gastrointestinal disturbances, metallic taste, skin rash, blood disorders, and liver function abnormalities may occur, and if severe, prompt medical consultation is required. In particular, if symptoms of lactic acidosis such as fatigue, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or abdominal pain occur, medication should be immediately discontinued, and medical attention should be sought. Elderly patients or those in poor nutritional status are at higher risk for hypoglycemia, so caution is required during administration. The use of this medication in conjunction with other hypoglycemic agents may increase the risk of hypoglycemia, so blood sugar levels should be closely monitored. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should discuss the administration of this medication with a healthcare provider, and the use during breastfeeding is not recommended. In cases of overdose, blood dialysis may be possible for drug removal, but immediate medical treatment is necessary. This medication is also available for use in children and adolescents, but their growth and development should be monitored periodically. Finally, this medication should be stored out of reach of children and not transferred to other containers.

Serious side effects

Lactic acidosis (fatigue, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, weakness, abdominal pain, low body temperature, hypotension, bradyarrhythmia), severe allergic reactions (rash), renal function deterioration, hypoglycemia.

Mild side effects

Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation, abdominal pain), metallic taste, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, vitamin B12 deficiency, liver function abnormalities, delayed hypoglycemia.

This medication should be stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent exposure to air and moisture. Additionally, it is recommended to store it at room temperature between 1°C and 30°C. Proper storage helps maintain the efficacy of the medication.

Appearance

White, round film-coated tablet

Package unit

100 tablets/bottle, 500 tablets/bottle