Metformin Er 500 Mg

Generic Name: metformin er 500 mg

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Metformin

Metformin ER 500 mg is an oral antihyperglycemic extended-release tablet indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Overview

Metformin ER 500 mg is an oral antihyperglycemic extended-release tablet indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Uses

Indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Dosage

Maximum recommended daily dose is 2000 mg. Start 500 mg once daily with evening meal, increase by 500 mg weekly as needed. Tablets must be swallowed whole.

Side Effects

Most common: diarrhea (9.6%), nausea/vomiting (6.5%). Less common: abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence, dizziness, headache, upper respiratory infection.

Interactions

Notable interactions with glyburide, furosemide, nifedipine, cimetidine. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors increase lactic acidosis risk. Alcohol potentiates lactate metabolism effects.

Warnings

Risk of lactic acidosis with elevated blood lactate (>5 mmol/L). Risk factors include renal impairment, age 65 or older, contrast agents, surgery, hypoxic states, excessive alcohol, hepatic impairment. Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m2), known hypersensitivity to metformin, and acute/chronic metabolic acidosis including diabetic ketoacidosis.

Pregnancy

Category B. Insulin recommended during pregnancy to maintain normal blood glucose. Studies show metformin not teratogenic in animals. Metformin excreted in breast milk at plasma-comparable levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Metformin Er 500 Mg used for?

Indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

What are the side effects of Metformin Er 500 Mg?

Most common: diarrhea (9.6%), nausea/vomiting (6.5%). Less common: abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence, dizziness, headache, upper respiratory infection.

Can I take Metformin Er 500 Mg during pregnancy?

Category B. Insulin recommended during pregnancy to maintain normal blood glucose. Studies show metformin not teratogenic in animals. Metformin excreted in breast milk at plasma-comparable levels.

What are the important warnings for Metformin Er 500 Mg?

Risk of lactic acidosis with elevated blood lactate (>5 mmol/L). Risk factors include renal impairment, age 65 or older, contrast agents, surgery, hypoxic states, excessive alcohol, hepatic impairment. Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m2), known hypersensitivity to metformin, and acute/chronic metabolic acidosis including diabetic ketoacidosis.

Related Medications

Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.