Gluformin XL 500 mg Tablet 15s

Uses of Gluformin XL 500 mg Tablet 15s

Metformin is an oral antidiabetic agent, prescribed for type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels.

Side Effects of Gluformin XL 500 mg Tablet 15s

Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, wt loss, flatulence, occasional metallic taste; weakness; hypoglycaemia; rash, malabsorption of vit B12. Chest discomfort, flushing, palpitation, chills, headache, lightheadedness, indigestion, abdominal discomfort. Potentially Fatal: Lactic acidosis in presence of renal failure and alcoholism.

Drug Interactions

Additive effect with sulphonylureas. Glycaemic control may be affected by diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, oestrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blockers, chlorpromazine and isoniazid. Metformin effects may be increased by ACE inhibitors, disopyramide, MAOIs. Cimetidine may increase the serum levels of metformin. Concurrent use with contrast agents may increase the risk of metformin-induced lactic acidosis. May decrease the anticoagulant effect of phenprocoumon, therefore routine anticoagulant monitoring is recommended. Potentially Fatal: Lactic acidosis with alcohol. Thrombocytopenia has been reported with ketotifen.

Contraindications

Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis with or without coma (including diabetic ketoacidosis). Renal failure, severe renal or hepatic impairment, acute conditions which may affect renal function e.g. dehydration, severe infection or shock. Cardiac failure, CHF, IDDM, severe impairment of thyroid function; acute or chronic alcoholism. Acute or chronic diseases which may cause tissue hypoxia e.g. cardiac or respiratory failure, recent MI or shock. Pregnancy, lactation.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action of metformin is unclear but it appears to reduce glucose absorption from the GI tract, reduce gluconeogenesis and enhance insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilisation. Absorption: Slow and incomplete from the GI tract (oral); reduced if taken with food. Distribution: Protein-binding: Negligible. Excretion: Urine (as unchanged drug).

Special Precautions

Caution when used in patients with CHF especially in those with unstable or acute heart failure. Risk of lactic acid accumulation increases with the degree of renal impairment. May need to discontinue treatment in patients with stress-related states e.g. fever, trauma, infection or surgery. Metformin should be temporarily discontinued for 48 hr in patients undergoing radiologic studies involving intravascular admin of iodinated contrast materials. Elderly. Monitor renal function regularly. May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

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