Radimet 500

Presentation:Each film-coated tablet contains 500 mg of metformin hydrochloride.Radimet 500 tablets are typically white to off-white, round or oval-shaped, and film-coated, often with a score line. They are available in blister packs.  

Indications: Radimet 500 is indicated as first-line therapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight and obese adults, when diet and exercise alone have failed to provide adequate glycemic control. It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or insulin.  

Dosage and Administration:Radimet 500 tablets are for oral administration and should be swallowed whole with water, preferably during or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.  

• Adults: The usual starting dose is 500 mg once or twice daily, given during or after meals. Dosage should be adjusted based on blood glucose response and tolerability, usually in increments of 500 mg every week or two.The usual maintenance dose is 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg twice daily with meals. The maximum recommended daily dose is 2550 mg, usually divided into three doses.
• Elderly:Dose adjustment should be cautious in elderly patients due to the potential for reduced renal function.Regular monitoring of renal function is advisable.
• Renal Impairment: Renal function should be assessed before initiating Radimet 500 and regularly thereafter.
  • eGFR ≥ 45 to < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²: Maximum daily dose of 2000 mg, divided into two doses.
  • eGFR ≥ 30 to < 45 mL/min/1.73 m²: Maximum daily dose of 1000 mg, divided into two doses.
  • eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²: Use is contraindicated.  

Side Effects:

• Very Common: Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These are often transient and may be reduced by taking the medication with food and with gradual dose escalation.  
• Common: Taste disturbance.
• Rare: Lactic acidosis (a serious metabolic complication requiring immediate medical attention), decreased vitamin B12 absorption with long-term use.

Precautions:

Radimet 500 is contraindicated in patients with:

• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
• Acute metabolic acidosis (such as diabetic ketoacidosis).
• Conditions leading to tissue hypoperfusion or hypoxemia (such as decompensated heart failure, respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock).  
• Hepatic impairment.  
• Acute alcohol intoxication,chronic alcoholism.

Caution should be exercised in patients with moderate renal impairment, elderly patients, and those with conditions that may predispose to lactic acidosis (e.g., dehydration, severe infection).Temporary discontinuation of Radimet 500 may be necessary for surgical procedures or iodinated contrast imaging.Patients should be educated about the symptoms of lactic acidosis.

Storage:Store below 30°C, protected from 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.