Metformin XR 500 mg Extended-Release Tablets

? Indications
Metformin XR extended-release tablets are oral anti-diabetic medications used to manage type 2 diabetes.
They help control blood sugar (glucose) levels and assist the body in using insulin effectively.
This medication is often combined with dietary changes and exercise.
⚠️ Note: This medication may be used for other purposes; consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions.

? Dosage and Administration

• There is no fixed dosage regimen for controlling blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients treated with Metformin XR.
• The dose of Metformin XR should be individualized based on effectiveness and tolerability, without exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
• Maximum Daily Dose: The maximum recommended daily dose of Metformin XR for adults is 2000 mg.
• Metformin XR is usually taken once daily with the evening meal.
• The patient should start with a low dose, gradually increasing to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and determine the appropriate dose for blood sugar control.

?‍⚕️ For All (Adults)

• Starting Dose: The usual starting dose is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal.
• Gradual Dose Increase: The dose should be increased by 500 mg weekly until the maximum of 2000 mg is reached once daily with the evening meal.
• Dose Adjustment: If blood sugar is not controlled with 2000 mg once daily, consider trying 1000 mg twice daily.
• Higher Doses: If higher doses of Metformin are necessary, Metformin can be used with daily doses up to 2550 mg divided throughout the day.

⚠️ Warnings and Precautions

• Lactic Acidosis Risk: Metformin Hydrochloride may cause rare but serious side effects called lactic acidosis, especially if kidney function is impaired, or if you have poorly controlled diabetes, severe infections, liver issues, or dehydration.
⚠️ Warning: Discontinue Metformin Hydrochloride and contact your doctor or nearest hospital immediately if you notice any symptoms of lactic acidosis, as this can lead to coma.

Symptoms of Lactic Acidosis:

• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Muscle cramps
• General discomfort with extreme fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Low body temperature and heart rate

⚠️ Hypoglycemia Risk

If you are taking Metformin Hydrochloride with other diabetes medications, this may lead to hypoglycemia.
⚠️ Note: If you notice symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as weakness, dizziness, increased sweating, rapid heartbeat, vision disturbances, or difficulty concentrating, consuming or drinking something containing sugar usually helps.

⚠️ Possible Side Effects of Metformin Hydrochloride

Common Side Effects:
• Side effects can occur with any medication. Sometimes these effects are serious, but more often they are not.
• You may need medical treatment if you notice any of these side effects.
• Tell your doctor if you are concerned about any of the following symptoms:
• Lactic acidosis which can lead to coma
• Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite
• Taste disturbances

? Drug Interactions

• Other Medications: Inform your doctor if you are using, or have recently used, or may use any other medications, such as:
• Diuretics (increase urination)
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Blood pressure medications
• Beta-2 agonists like salbutamol (for asthma)
• Corticosteroids
• Other diabetes medications

? Ingredients

• Available Concentrations: Metformin XR is available in different concentrations from various manufacturers:
• 500 mg: Each extended-release tablet contains 500 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride, equivalent to 390 mg of Metformin base.
• 750 mg: Each extended-release tablet contains 750 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride, equivalent to 585 mg of Metformin base.
• 1000 mg: Each extended-release tablet contains 1000 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride, equivalent to 780 mg of Metformin base.