Radimet 850 

Presentation:Radimet 850 Tablet, available in Bangladesh, contains Metformin Hydrochloride BP 850 mg.It is typically presented as a white to off-white, oval or round, film-coated tablet for oral administration. The tablets are usually available in blister packs containing a specific number of tablets.

Indications: Radimet is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight adults, when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient for adequate glycemic control. It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or insulin in adults.In children from 10 years of age and adolescents, Radimet may be used 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 Radimet must be individualized based on both effectiveness and tolerability, without exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose.It should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.⁵  

• Adults:The usual starting dose is 500 mg twice daily or 850 mg once daily, administered with meals.Dosage adjustments should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a maximum daily dose of 2000 mg, given in divided doses. Patients requiring additional glycemic control may be given a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg, usually divided into three doses with meals.
• Children (10 years and older) and Adolescents: The usual starting dose is 500 mg twice daily, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly, 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, particularly in patients with renal impairment.  

Precautions:Radimet is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), and known hypersensitivity to metformin.It is also contraindicated in 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),and severe hepatic impairment. Alcohol consumption should be avoided. 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 Radimet and regularly thereafter.

Storage:Store Radimet 850 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.