Composition:
Each tablet contains:
Metformin Hydrochloride ..................500 mg

Properties:
Metformin is a biguanide that has a different mode of action from the sulphonylureas, & is not interchangeable with them. It exerts its effect mainly by decreasing gluconeogenesis & by increasing peripheral utilization of glucose. Since it only acts in the presence of endogenous insulin, it is only effective in diabetics with functioning pancreatic islet cells. Metformin is used in the treatment of non insulin- dependent diabetics when strict dieting & sulphonylurea treatment have failed to control diabetes, especially in over - weight patients, in whom it may, if necessary be used first. Metformin hydrochloride is absorbed from the gastro -intestinal tract & is excreted, unchanged in the urine.

Indications:
Non - insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

Contraindications:
Renal or hepatic failure, predisposition to lactic acidosis, heart failure, severe infection or trauma, dehydration, pregnancy & breast - feeding.

Drug interactions:
► Alcohol increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
► Cimetidine increases plasma concentrations of metformin.

Side effects:
The drug may cause some G.I.T disturbances such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (usually transient) Absorption of vitamin B 12 may be impaired.Lactic acidosis, but this usually occurs in patients whose conditions contraindicate the use of metformin.

Dosage & route of administration & duration:
500 mg (one tablet) is given three times daily with meals. This dosage may be gradually increased if necessary to a maximum of 3 g daily .

Storage:
Keep at temp. not exceeding 30ºC
Keep out of reach of children.

Presentation:
Box of 20 tablets / 1000 tablets.