Drug | Tablet

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (to control blood glucose), Prediabetes/insulin resistance (as advised by doctor), Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance (off-label, as prescribed)

Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver and reduces intestinal glucose absorption. It also improves insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat, helping the body use insulin better and lowering blood sugar without usually causing hypoglycaemia when used alone.

Tablet (immediate-release): take exactly as prescribed, usually with or after meals to reduce stomach upset. Swallow with water; do not crush unless advised. Take at the same time each day; if a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless it is close to the next dose (do not double).

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste, flatulence, headache, vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)

Risk of lactic acidosis (rare but serious) especially with kidney disease, severe dehydration, sepsis, shock, severe liver disease, or heavy alcohol use—seek urgent care for rapid breathing, severe weakness, persistent vomiting, abdominal pain or drowsiness. Use with caution in renal impairment; kidney function should be checked before and during therapy. Temporarily stop metformin during severe vomiting/diarrhoea/dehydration and before/after iodinated contrast procedures or major surgery as advised by doctor. Monitor for hypoglycaemia when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Long-term use may lower vitamin B12—periodic monitoring may be needed.

Alcohol, Iodinated contrast media, Insulin and sulfonylureas (e.g., glimepiride) (increased hypoglycaemia risk), Cimetidine (may increase metformin levels), Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide) (increased acidosis risk), Diuretics and ACE inhibitors/ARBs (via dehydration/renal function changes), Corticosteroids and some antipsychotics (may raise blood glucose)

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

Metformin 500 Tablet, Glyciphage 500 Tablet, Gluformin 500 Tablet, Obimet 500 Tablet, Formin 500 Tablet