Metformin-Teva 500 mg Tablets | Indications & Buy Online

Metformin-Teva 500 mg is a fundamental oral hypoglycemic agent utilized for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Classified as a biguanide, it is the primary pharmacological choice for patients whose hyperglycemia is not adequately controlled by diet and physical activity, particularly those with excess body weight. Metformin-Teva works by enhancing the body's response to insulin and reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver, thereby lowering blood glucose levels without stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. This unique profile helps prevent weight gain and significantly reduces the risk of hypoglycemia when used as a monotherapy.

Composition and Active Substance

Each film-coated tablet is formulated to ensure consistent therapeutic delivery:

• Active Substance: Metformin hydrochloride — 500 mg.

• Core Excipients: Povidone K-30, colloidal anhydrous silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate.

• Film Coating: Hypromellose (2910/5), titanium dioxide (E 171), and macrogol (type 400).

Pharmacological Action

Metformin-Teva lowers blood glucose through three distinct mechanisms:

1. Hepatic Inhibition: It reduces the liver's production of glucose by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.

2. Increased Peripheral Sensitivity: It enhances insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle, improving glucose uptake and utilization.

3. Delayed Intestinal Absorption: It slows the rate at which glucose is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

By stabilizing glucose levels, metformin also has a beneficial impact on lipid metabolism, often resulting in lower total cholesterol and LDL levels.

Indications for Use

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Treatment in adults and children/adolescents (10+ years).

• Overweight Patients: First-line therapy to reduce diabetic complications and manage weight.

• Combination Therapy: Compatible with other oral antidiabetics or insulin to achieve glycemic targets.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to metformin or any tablet components.

• Severe Renal Failure: Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 30 ml/min.

• Metabolic Acidosis: Including lactic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis.

• Acute Conditions: Dehydration, severe infections, or shock.

• Hypoxia-inducing Diseases: Heart failure, respiratory failure, or recent myocardial infarction.

• Liver Health: Liver failure, acute alcohol intoxication, and chronic alcoholism.

Dosage and Administration

Adults:

• Starting Dose: Usually 500 mg or 850 mg taken 2–3 times daily.

• Titration: Adjust the dose after 10–15 days based on blood glucose levels.

• Maximum Dose: 3000 mg per day, divided into 3 doses.

• Switching: When transitioning from another antidiabetic, stop the previous drug before starting Metformin-Teva.

Children (10+ Years):

• Monotherapy or combination with insulin. Dosage titration is similar to adults to ensure gastrointestinal safety.

Special Administration Tips

• Timing: Always take tablets during or after eating to minimize stomach upset.

• Slow Increase: Gradually increasing the dose helps the digestive system adapt and reduces side effects like nausea or diarrhea.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

• Gastrointestinal (Very Frequent): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These are most common at the start of treatment.

• Nervous System (Frequent): Taste disturbances (metallic taste).

• Metabolic: Lactic acidosis (rare but severe). Long-term use may lead to decreased Vitamin B12 absorption.

• Hepatobiliary: Isolated cases of impaired liver function or hepatitis, which resolve after drug withdrawal.

• Skin: Rare reactions like itching, redness, or urticaria (hives).

Special Precautions & Warnings

• Lactic Acidosis: A life-threatening emergency characterized by muscle cramps and weakness. Avoid alcohol and dehydration to minimize this risk.

• Pregnancy: Switching to insulin is recommended to maintain the strictest possible blood glucose control and reduce fetal risk.

• Breastfeeding: Use is not recommended as metformin passes into breast milk and safety data is insufficient.

• Driving: Monotherapy is safe; however, combined therapy (with insulin or sulfonylureas) requires caution due to potential hypoglycemia.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life

• No special temperature storage conditions are required.

• Keep the medication in a secure place out of the reach of children.

• Shelf Life: Refer to the expiration date printed on the original Teva packaging.