Ilyang Metformin Sustained-Release Tablets (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The initial dose is 500 mg of Metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablet taken once daily with dinner. After one week, blood sugar levels should be measured to adjust the dosage, with a maximum daily dose of 2000 mg. When increasing the dose, it should be increased by 500 mg weekly, with a maximum of 2000 mg taken once daily with dinner. If blood sugar control is not achieved with the maximum dosage of 2000 mg once daily, a dosage of 1000 mg taken twice daily (with meals) should be considered.

This medication can rarely cause serious lactic acidosis, which has been reported to lead to fatal cases. Caution is necessary when used with other diabetes medications as severe hypoglycemia may occur. It should not be prescribed to patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or conditions such as dehydration, severe infections, or acute myocardial infarction. It should also not be used in patients with acute or unstable heart failure, certain radiological examinations, drug hypersensitivity, or in patients with Type 1 diabetes. Patients with severe infections or major trauma should discontinue the oral intake until recovery and normalization of kidney function. Patients scheduled for surgery should stop using this medication 48 hours before surgery and can resume afterward once kidney function is confirmed to be normal. Caution is also required in patients with malnutrition, frailty, liver dysfunction, or excessive alcohol intake. Kidney function should be regularly monitored during treatment, especially in elderly patients or those with reduced kidney function. The risk of hypoglycemia is present, hence caution is needed for irregular meals, vigorous exercise, and interactions with other medications. Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) are common at the beginning of treatment but usually adapt over time. If skin rashes or itching occur, administration should be stopped immediately and a physician consulted. Alcohol intake may affect lactate metabolism and increase risk, hence it should be avoided. During pregnancy, it may affect fetal growth and should be used cautiously under a doctor's judgment, while it is not recommended during breastfeeding. It is advisable not to use in children or adolescents under the age of 17, as safety and efficacy have not been established. In case of overdose, drug removal through blood dialysis is possible; immediate medical assistance should be sought. This medication should be taken strictly according to a doctor’s instructions, and the tablets should be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing. During treatment, blood sugar levels, kidney function, and vitamin B12 levels should be monitored regularly, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to healthcare professionals immediately.

Serious side effects

Lactic acidosis

Mild side effects

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

This medication should be stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent exposure to air or moisture. Additionally, it should be kept in a location that avoids extreme heat or cold, ideally at a temperature between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

White rectangular tablets

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle