Metfo 500 

Presentation:Metfo 500 Tablet, available in Bangladesh, contains Metformin Hydrochloride BP 500 mg.

Indications: Metfo is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight adults, when dietary management and exercise alone have not been sufficient to achieve adequate glycemic control. Metfo can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin in adults.It is also indicated for use in children aged 10 years and older and adolescents as monotherapy or in combination with insulin. Metformin, the active ingredient, has shown to reduce the risk of diabetic complications in overweight adults with type 2 diabetes treated as first-line therapy after diet failure.

Dosage and Administration: The dosage of Metfo must be individualized based on the patient's blood glucose levels and tolerability, using the lowest effective dose. It should be taken orally with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.  

• Adults: The usual starting dose is 500 mg two or three times a day, or 850 mg once or twice a day, given with or after meals. Dosage adjustments should be made gradually based on blood glucose response, up to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg.
• Children (10 years and older) and Adolescents:The usual starting dose is 500 mg twice a day, given with or after meals.Dosage increases should be made gradually based on blood glucose response, up to a maximum daily dose of 2000 mg, given in divided doses.

Side Effects: The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances, especially at the beginning of treatment. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.These symptoms usually resolve spontaneously. A metallic taste may also occur.Long-term use of metformin may lead to decreased absorption of vitamin B12.Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious metabolic complication that can occur due to metformin accumulation, especially in patients with renal impairment.  

Precautions: Metfo is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to metformin hydrochloride.  
• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
• Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis.  
• Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function, such as dehydration, severe infection,shock.
• Acute or chronic disease which may cause tissue hypoxia, such as cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction.  
• Severe hepatic impairment.
• Acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.

Caution should be exercised in patients with moderate renal impairment (eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m²), heart failure, and elderly patients. Metformin therapy should be temporarily discontinued before any intravascular administration of iodinated contrast media and before major surgery with expected prolonged fasting.Renal function should be assessed before initiating Metfo and regularly thereafter.

Storage: Store Metfo 500 tablets in a cool (below 30°C) and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.