Metformin 850 mg

Description

Metformin 850 mg is an oral medication commonly prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is part of the biguanide class of drugs and is often used in conjunction with diet and exercise to help control high blood sugar levels.

What is Metformin 850 mg?

Metformin 850 mg is a film-coated tablet containing 850 mg of metformin hydrochloride, which corresponds to approximately 662.9 mg of metformin base . It is commonly available under brand names such as Glucophage, Glycomet, and Diaformin.

How Does Metformin 850 mg Work?

Metformin helps lower blood sugar levels through three primary mechanisms:

• Decreases glucose production in the liver.
• Reduces glucose absorption from the intestines.
• Improves insulin sensitivity, allowing muscle and fat cells to better utilize glucose.

These actions help control blood sugar levels without causing significant hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) .

Dosage and Administration

• Starting Dose: The recommended starting dose is 850 mg once daily, taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects .
• Titration: The dose may be increased in increments of 850 mg every 2 weeks, based on glycemic control and tolerability.
• Maximum Dose: The maximum recommended dose is 2,550 mg per day, divided into two or three doses .

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects:

• Lactic acidosis: A rare but serious condition characterized by symptoms such as muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach discomfort, dizziness, and feeling cold .
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Long-term use of metformin may reduce vitamin B12 levels, leading to fatigue and anemia.

Precautions and Contraindications

• Kidney Function: Metformin is contraindicated in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Initiation of metformin in patients with an eGFR between 30–45 mL/min/1.73 m² is not recommended .
• Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver disease.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Surgical Procedures: Metformin should be temporarily discontinued before major surgeries or imaging procedures involving contrast dyes .

Monitoring and Lifestyle Considerations

• Blood Sugar Levels: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential to assess the effectiveness of metformin and make necessary adjustments.
• Vitamin B12 Levels: Long-term use may require periodic monitoring of vitamin B12 levels to prevent deficiency.
• Diet and Exercise: Adhering to a balanced diet and regular physical activity can enhance the effectiveness of metformin in controlling blood sugar levels.

1. What is Metformin 850 mg used for?

Metformin 850 mg is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps control blood sugar levels and is also used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and sometimes for gestational diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

2. How does Metformin 850 mg work?

Metformin works by:

• Decreasing glucose production in the liver.
• Reducing glucose absorption in the intestines.
• Improving insulin sensitivity, helping cells better utilize glucose.

These mechanisms help lower blood sugar levels without causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

3. What is the usual dosage of Metformin 850 mg?

The typical starting dose is 850 mg once daily, taken with meals. Depending on blood sugar levels and tolerance, the dosage may be gradually increased, with a maximum of 2,550 mg per day, divided into two or three doses.

4. What are the common side effects of Metformin 850 mg?

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite

These side effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by taking Metformin with food.

5. What are the serious side effects of Metformin 850 mg?

Serious side effects may include:

• Lactic acidosis: A rare but serious condition with symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach discomfort, dizziness, and feeling cold.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Long-term use of Metformin can lower B12 levels, leading to fatigue and anemia.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.