Depo-M tablets (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The dosing should be determined based on individual drug efficacy and tolerance and should not exceed the recommended maximum dose per day. This medication should always be initiated at a low dose in order to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and to determine the minimum dose needed for adequate blood sugar control, typically taken 500 mg 2-3 times a day with meals. Doses may be increased gradually by 500 mg each week up to 20.

Child dose

It can be used for children aged 10 and older or growing adolescents. The general initial dose is 500 milligrams once daily, taken during or after meals. Blood sugar levels should be checked one week later.

This medication can cause severe lactic acidosis or hypoglycemia, so caution is needed. It should not be used in patients with moderately severe or worse renal impairment, those in a state of dehydration, severe infection, heart failure, or other acute conditions. If undergoing examinations using iodinated contrast media, administration of this medication should be temporarily suspended until renal function is confirmed normal before resuming. It should not be administered to patients with a history of allergic reactions to this medication, Type 1 diabetes, or acute metabolic acidosis. Temporary discontinuation of this medication may be necessary in cases where oral intake is difficult due to preoperative or postoperative conditions, severe infections, or trauma. Caution is required for patients with liver dysfunction, respiratory function decline, or excessive alcohol intake. Irregular meals, excessive exercise, and interactions with other medications can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia, so it should be administered with care. Lactic acidosis is very rare but can be fatal; therefore, immediate consultation with a doctor is necessary if symptoms such as malaise, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or abdominal pain occur. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common during early treatment and can be alleviated by taking the medication with meals or gradually increasing the dosage. This medication is primarily excreted through the kidneys, so regular kidney function tests should be performed before and during treatment, and administration should be discontinued if kidney function declines. In situations where blood sugar control becomes difficult, such as illness or surgery, temporary discontinuation of medication may be necessary, and insulin therapy may be required. Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of side effects from this medication. Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur, necessitating regular blood tests for monitoring. During pregnancy, careful consideration of the effects on the fetus is necessary, and administration should be avoided if there is a risk of placental dysfunction or preeclampsia. This medication is secreted into breast milk, so careful decisions regarding breastfeeding and drug treatment discontinuation should be made. Elderly patients are at higher risk of renal impairment; therefore, treatment should start at the minimum dosage, and regular kidney function tests are necessary. In case of overdose, blood dialysis may be beneficial, and immediate contact with a healthcare facility is required. Given the potential for numerous drug-drug interactions, if taking other medications, consult with a physician or pharmacist. While taking this medication, it is important to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and kidney function to confirm treatment efficacy and side effects. When administering to children or adolescents, careful observation of growth and development is necessary. This medication assists in blood sugar control without weight gain, but maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is recommended during treatment.

Serious side effects

Lactic acidosis (including malaise, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, weakness, abdominal pain, hypothermia, hypotension, resistant bradyarrhythmia), severe allergic reactions (hives, severe swelling), liver dysfunction (jaundice of the skin or eyes, severe lethargy), severe edema or urinary abnormalities (significant reduction in urine output, severe generalized edema, increased blood pressure), respiratory issues (shortness of breath or difficulty breathing), serious neurological symptoms (sudden and severe)

Mild side effects

Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, loss of appetite, dyspepsia, constipation, abdominal pain), metallic taste, rash, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, vitamin B12 deficiency, abnormal liver function, hypoglycemia

This medication may be sensitive to air and moisture, so it should be stored in a sealed container. The storage temperature should be kept at room temperature between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius. Proper storage conditions will help maintain the drug's efficacy for a longer period.

Appearance

White round film-coated tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 500 tablets/bottle