Meglu ER 500

Presentation:

Meglu ER 500 is available as extended-release tablets containing 500 mg of metformin hydrochloride for oral administration. The tablets are usually white to off-white, capsule-shaped, and film-coated. The specific packaging details will be mentioned on the product pack.

Indications:

Meglu ER 500 is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, particularly in overweight patients, when dietary management and exercisealone have not resulted in adequate glycemic control.

• It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
• In overweight type 2 diabetic adult patients treated with metformin as first-line therapy after diet failure, a reduction of diabetic complications has been shown.

Dosage and Administration:

The usual starting dose of Metformin Extended Release is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal.  

• The dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal. 
• Alternatively, the dose may be increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meals.
• Patients receiving immediate-release metformin may be switched to extended-release tablets up to the maximum recommended daily dose.
• Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, cut, or chew it.
• The dosage should be individualized based on effectiveness and tolerance, not exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose.
• It should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
• Renal function should be assessed before initiation of therapy and regularly thereafter. The lowest effective dose should be used in patients with renal impairment. Metformin is contraindicated in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These are usually mild and transient, occurring at the beginning of therapy and resolving spontaneously in most cases.

Less common side effects may include taste disturbance (metallic taste).

Rare but serious side effects include lactic acidosis, which requires emergency medical attention. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, severe muscle cramps, feeling generally unwell with severe tiredness, and difficulty breathing.

Long-term use of metformin may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Precautions:

Before taking Meglu ER 500, inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially:

• Kidney problems (renal impairment)
• Liver problems (hepatic impairment)
• Heart failure, especially if unstable or acute
• Severe infections
• Dehydration
• Excessive alcohol intake
• планирование хирургической операции или диагностической процедуры с введением йодсодержащего контрастного вещества (временное прекращение приема метформина может потребоваться)

Metformin is contraindicated in patients with:

• Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²)
• Acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis)
• Acute conditions that may alter renal function (such as dehydration, severe infection, shock)
• Conditions associated with tissue hypoxia (such as cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction) 
• Hepatic insufficiency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism 
• Hypersensitivity to metformin

During treatment, regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended. Elderly patients should use Meglu ER 500 with caution due to potential decreased renal function.

Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, andherbal supplements, as drug interactions may occur.

The use of alcohol should be avoided as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and affect blood glucose control.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medication.

Storage:

Store Meglu ER 500 tablets below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date mentioned on the packaging.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.