Metformin Extended Release Tablet (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

Take Metformin Hydrochloride extended release 500 mg once daily with dinner. Increase the dose by 500 mg each week, up to a maximum of 2000 mg taken with dinner. If blood sugar control is not achieved with a maximum of 2000 mg once daily, consider taking 1000 mg twice daily, with both doses taken with meals. For patients with renal impairment, the initial dose is once daily, 50.

This medication can rarely cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis is a state where lactic acid accumulates excessively in the body, leading to acidity, and can be life-threatening if severe. Additionally, when used with other diabetes treatments, hypoglycemia may occur, so blood sugar levels should be monitored frequently and carefully. Patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or those with dehydration, severe infections, acute heart disease, etc., should not use this medication. In such cases, the drug can accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of side effects. When receiving iodinated contrast agents for radiologic examinations, this medication should be temporarily discontinued for a certain period before and after the test, and can only be resumed after confirming normal renal function. Patients with allergies to any components of this drug or with specific metabolic diseases such as type 1 diabetes or ketoacidosis should also refrain from use. Patients facing severe infections or major surgery should temporarily stop taking the medication and can resume after their condition stabilizes. Patients with very poor nutritional status, impaired liver function, or excessive alcohol consumption should also be cautious when using this medication. During treatment, renal function should be regularly monitored, and vitamin B12 levels should also be checked, as this medication can cause vitamin B12 deficiency. Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) may commonly occur during initial use, but they typically improve over time. If symptoms are severe, consult a doctor. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, so alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment. Especially in elderly patients, renal function impairment is common, so dosage adjustments and regular monitoring are necessary. This medication should be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed, and the tablet coating may appear in stool, which is normal. In cases of overdose, hypoglycemia is uncommon, but the drug may accumulate in the body, potentially requiring dialysis. During treatment, blood sugar control should be monitored continuously, and in the event of sudden changes in symptoms, immediate consultation with medical personnel is required.

Serious side effects

Severe lactic acidosis, hypoglycemia, severe allergic reactions (including urticaria), severe cutaneous adverse reactions (such as urticaria and rash), respiratory issues (difficulty breathing), liver abnormalities (jaundice), severe neurological symptoms, severe edema or urination abnormalities

Mild side effects

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• taste impairment
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• loss of appetite
• erythema
• itching
• urticaria

This medication should be stored in a tightly closed container to prevent air and moisture from entering. It is also advisable to store it at room temperature between 1 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

White oblong tablets

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle