Metofix XL 500

Composition of Metofix XL 500

Metofix XL 500 contains Metformin (500mg). It belongs to the Biguanide class of medicines.

Uses of Metofix XL 500

Metofix-XL 500 Tablet is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is used in addition to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Key benefits

• First-choice medicine for type 2 diabetes
• Does not usually cause weight gain
• Low risk of hypoglycaemia when used alone

How Metofix XL 500 works

Metofix-XL 500 Tablet is an anti-diabetic medication (biguanide). It works by lowering glucose production in the liver, delaying the absorption of sugar (glucose) from the intestines, and increasing the bodys sensitivity to insulin.

How to take Metofix XL 500

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Metofix-XL 500 Tablet is to be taken with food.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is almost due, skip the one you missed — never take two doses together to catch up.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause a dangerous build-up of acid in the blood, with vomiting, severe weakness and laboured breathing. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Metofix XL 500

Most side effects of Metofix XL are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Nausea
• Loose motions
• Stomach pain
• Metallic taste
• Loss of appetite
• Flatulence

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Metofix XL 500

Warnings and precautions

Stomach upset is common in the first two weeks and usually settles; taking it with food helps. Tell your doctor before any surgery or a scan that uses contrast dye — this medicine is usually stopped for a short time around them. Stop and seek urgent care if you develop deep rapid breathing, severe weakness, muscle pain or vomiting with cold clammy skin. This is rare but serious. Long-term use can lower vitamin B12, so your doctor may check it from time to time.

Do not take Metofix XL if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for people with severe kidney disease, severe liver disease, or an acute illness causing dehydration. Not for people who have had diabetic ketoacidosis.

Interactions with other medicines

Tell your doctor about water tablets, steroids, and any contrast dye scan. Alcohol increases the risk of the rare acid build-up and should be limited.

How to store Metofix XL 500

Store below 30°C in the original pack, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Expert advice for Metofix XL 500

Take it with or just after food to reduce stomach upset. Keep taking it even when your sugar readings look normal — that is the medicine working. Continue your diet and physical activity; this medicine works alongside them, not instead of them.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

ALEMBIC PHARMA

Therapeutic class:

Anti-diabetic

Drug class:

Biguanide