Metformin (HCl)

Drug #458

Metformin (HCl) is oral biguanide antidiabetic agent, introduced in 1950s. It reduces elevated blood glucose concentration in diabetic patients, but it does not increase insulin secretion. Metformin (HCl) is used alone or in combination with insulin or chlorpropamide. Most useful in overweight subjects, where it supresses appetite. May cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

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Primary Characteristics

Metformin (HCl) is also known as Metformin.

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Biguanide.

It belongs to Hypoglycaemics pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antidiabetic Agent, Biguanide pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 165.6 · pK_a: 11.5 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 2 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 100 · Non-proprietary name: Metformin (HCl).

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Metformin (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 55% (±5%).

Distribution: Metformin (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 63-276 litre. plasma protein binding is negligible.

Elimination: it is metabolised via Excreted unmetabolized in urine, plasma half-life is 1.5-4.5 hr, renal excretion is 90%.

Indications

Metformin (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Diabetes mellitus, Hyperlipoproteinaemia, Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, Insulin resistance, Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, Obesity.

Contraindications

Metformin (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Alcohol dependence, Anaemia, Myocardial infarction, Septicaemia, Infections, Respiratory disease, Ketosis, Cardiovascular disease, Diabetic coma, Trauma, Iron deficiency, Vitamin B12 deficiency, Renal impairment, Diabetic retinopathy, Liver damage.

Dosage

Metformin (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
500 – 3000 mg	—	Every 12h	PO	Frequency may be increased upto 3times/day, if needed. Gradually increase upto 2-3 g/day.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
0 – 0	—	—		Not recommended for this age group
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions

6 interactions

Major1 interaction

Moderate18 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Metformin (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Malabsorption of vit B12, Vasculitis , Hypoglycemia, Pneumonitis , Malabsorpton of folic acid , Megaloblastic anemia.

Metformin (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Lactic Acidosis . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Metformin (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal distension, Anorexia , Diarrhea, Flatulence, Hypersensitivity , Metallic taste, Nausea, Skin reactions, Vomiting , Weight LossX.

Warnings / Precautions

Metformin should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease, kidney disease, heart trouble or if have any allergy, infections. Avoid excessive use of alcohol while taking this. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy and should be used only if clearly needed during lactation.

Interference in Pathology

Metformin (HCl) may interfere in the diagnosis of Serum test for Creatinine and Glucose .

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Tabs

1 g 100 mg 250 mg 500 mg 750 mg 850 mg

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Tabs

1 g 250 mg 500 mg 850 mg

Storage Conditions

Metformin (HCl) should be stored Tab.

Drug Classification

1.18.7.2 — Oral hypoglycemics

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Metformin (HCl) in Pakistan: