Metwon Sustained-Release Tablet (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The initial dose is 500 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride sustained-release tablet once daily with dinner. After one week, blood sugar levels should be measured to adjust the dose, which can be increased by 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day with dinner. If blood sugar control is not achieved after using a maximum of 2000 mg once daily, it may be given as 1000 mg twice daily with meals. In patients with renal impairment...

This drug can rarely cause a serious metabolic complication called lactic acidosis, which can be life-threatening, so patients should be alert for symptoms. When used in conjunction with other diabetes medications, there is a risk of hypoglycemia, and blood sugar levels should be carefully monitored. It should not be given to patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, dehydration, acute severe infections, or certain acute conditions such as heart failure. Administration should be temporarily paused before and after tests using iodinated contrast agents, verifying renal function before resuming. It should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to any component of this drug or in those with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Administration should be temporarily stopped during severe infections, major trauma, or pre- and post-surgery, and resumed only after patient conditions improve. Patients with poor nutritional status or liver dysfunction, or excessive alcohol consumption need to use with caution. During pregnancy, especially when there is a risk of placental insufficiency or preeclampsia, use should be avoided. Gastrointestinal disturbances may occur frequently, so it is recommended to start at a lower dose and gradually increase it, taking with meals. Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur, so regular blood tests should be conducted for monitoring. If renal function declines, the risk of accumulation and side effects of this drug increases, hence regular renal function tests are essential. Symptoms of hypoglycemia are rare with monotherapy, but the risk of hypoglycemia increases when used with other hypoglycemic agents or alcohol. Patients should avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking this medication and consult healthcare professionals immediately if sudden blood sugar changes or abnormal symptoms occur. Older adults are at higher risk of renal function decline and require dose adjustment and regular monitoring, ensuring not to exceed the maximum dosage. This drug should be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed; the tablet coating may be excreted, which is normal. It can interact with other medications, so patients should inform healthcare professionals of any other medications being taken, and blood sugar and renal function should be checked periodically. Blood sugar control is crucial during pregnancy, and this drug can be used alone or as a substitute with insulin if necessary, but should be under the guidance of a physician as it may affect fetal growth. During breastfeeding, this drug is excreted in breast milk, so careful decision-making regarding breastfeeding and medication discontinuation is required. It is not recommended for children or adolescents under 17 years due to the lack of established safety and efficacy. In case of overdose, while hypoglycemia is rare, there is a risk of lactic acidosis, and immediate medical treatment should be sought; dialysis may be helpful if necessary. This drug has not been reported to have carcinogenic or mutagenic potential even with long-term use and helps control blood sugar without weight gain. This medication should be kept out of reach of children and should not be transferred to other containers.

Serious side effects

Death due to lactic acidosis, severe allergic reactions (including urticaria), respiratory distress, liver abnormalities (jaundice), severe neurological symptoms, severe swelling or urinary abnormalities

Mild side effects

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• taste disturbance
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• loss of appetite
• redness
• itching
• urticaria

This drug should be stored in a tightly closed container to protect it from air and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is between 1 degree and 30 degrees Celsius at room temperature.

Appearance

White rectangular tablets

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle