Newmet Controlled Release Tablets 500mg (Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The general initial dosage is 500mg of Metformin Hydrochloride Controlled Release Tablet taken once daily with the evening meal. After one week, blood sugar levels should be monitored to adjust the dosage, with a maximum dosage of 2000mg per day. If increasing dosage, it should be done weekly by 500mg up to a maximum of 2000mg taken with the evening meal. If blood sugar control is not achieved after the maximum once daily dosage of 2000mg, consider 1000mg taken twice daily.

This medication can rarely cause a serious metabolic condition called lactic acidosis, which can lead to death, so it must be used with extreme caution. When used alongside other diabetes medications, severe hypoglycemia may occur, requiring careful monitoring. It should not be used in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment or conditions such as severe infections, dehydration, or acute heart failure. Especially, the administration of this medication should be suspended before and after examinations using iodinated contrast agents, and may only be resumed after renal function has returned to normal. It should not be administered to patients with hypersensitivity to this drug or those with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Administration should also be temporarily discontinued during severe infections or surgical procedures, and may be resumed once the condition improves. Its use is not recommended for patients with hepatic dysfunction, severe respiratory failure, or excessive alcohol consumption. While taking this medication, be cautious of increased risks of hypoglycemia or lactic acidosis due to irregular meals, intense exercise, or interactions with certain drugs. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may commonly occur initially but usually improve with time. Regular monitoring of renal function is essential, and if abnormalities are detected, the medication should be discontinued immediately, especially for elderly patients or those with compromised renal function. Alcohol intake may increase the risk of lactic acidosis, so it is advisable to avoid drinking while on this medication. During pregnancy, it can affect fetal growth; therefore, pregnant women should use it cautiously after consulting a physician. Breastfeeding mothers should also seek professional advice. Safety has not been established for children, and its use is not recommended. In case of overdose, hypoglycemia is rare, but drug accumulation may lead to lactic acidosis, requiring immediate medical attention. This medication should not be crushed or chewed but swallowed whole, and the expulsion of the tablet coating in the stool is normal. There is an importance to continuously monitor blood glucose and renal function while taking this medication.

Serious side effects

Lactic acidosis, hives, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, severe swelling, severe allergic reactions, acute kidney function deterioration, liver dysfunction (possible jaundice), severe skin reactions (severe rashes, blisters, peeling skin, pain in mucous membranes of mouth/eyes), neurological abnormalities (severe headaches, confusion), high blood pressure and severe edema, hypoglycemia (including severe 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 exposure to air, and it is safe to store at room temperature between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius. Proper storage ensures the medication remains effective and prevents degradation.

Appearance

White, double convex, rectangular controlled-release tablet

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle