Megapolmin Extended-Release 500 mg (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The usual initial dose is 500 mg of extended-release Metformin Hydrochloride taken once daily with dinner. After one week, blood sugar levels should be measured to adjust the dose. The maximum dose is 2000 mg, and when increasing the dose, it should be done weekly by 500 mg and taken with dinner. If maximum 2000 mg once daily does not achieve blood sugar control, consider 1000 mg twice daily with meals.

This drug can rarely cause a serious condition known as lactic acidosis, which can be life-threatening. Caution should be exercised when using this medication with other diabetes treatments as hypoglycemia may occur. This drug should not be used in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or those with dehydration, serious infections, or heart disease. Patients with acute heart failure or those receiving iodinated contrast media should also not use this medication. Patients with hypersensitivity to this drug or with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis should not be administered this drug. Patients with severe infections, trauma, or undergoing surgery should temporarily stop taking this drug until their condition stabilizes. Patients with poor nutritional status, liver dysfunction, excessive alcohol consumption, or symptoms of dehydration should also use this drug with caution. Renal function should be regularly monitored, and the drug should be discontinued if renal function declines. During treatment, there is a risk of hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis due to irregular meals, excessive exercise, and interactions with other drugs, so caution is advised. Gastrointestinal disturbances may commonly occur when starting the medication; gradually increasing the dosage or taking it with meals can help reduce the symptoms. This drug may cause vitamin B12 deficiency, so it is recommended to regularly check serum vitamin B12 levels. Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects from this drug, thus it is advisable to avoid drinking during treatment. During pregnancy, it should only be used in special cases, and fetal growth should be closely monitored. Breastfeeding women should be careful as this drug is excreted in breast milk and should consider whether to continue breastfeeding or stop medication. Elderly patients are at greater risk for renal function decline and need dosage adjustments and regular renal function tests. In case of overdose, the risk is lactic acidosis rather than hypoglycemia, and blood dialysis may be necessary to remove the drug if needed. This medication should be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing, and it is normal for the tablet coating to be excreted in the stool. While taking this medication, regular monitoring of blood sugar, renal function, and hematological tests should be conducted, and any abnormal symptoms should be reported to healthcare providers immediately.

Serious side effects

Lactic acidosis (acute lactic acidosis), hives, severe swelling (edema), difficulty breathing, liver abnormalities (jaundice), confusion, severe edema with high blood pressure and hypoglycemia

Mild side effects

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• taste disturbance
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• loss of appetite
• erythema
• itching
• hives

This medication should be stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent air or moisture from entering, and it is recommended to keep it in a cool place at a temperature below 25 degrees Celsius. Storing it this way will help maintain the drug's effectiveness for a longer time.

Appearance

White to pale yellow oblong tablets

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle