Say Goodbye To
Diabetes Medication

The administration of metformin, an oral drug for treating type 2 diabetes, may differ among pregnant or nursing women, children, and elderly individuals based on numerous factors such as personal medical history, present health condition, and their healthcare provider's recommendation.

Pregnant women ought to consult with their physician prior to using metformin, as it has the potential to pass through the placenta and impact the fetus. Similarly, nursing mothers should seek their doctor's advice before using metformin since it can be secreted in breast milk.

Both children and elderly individuals are more prone to metformin's side effects, so their dosage might need modification. A healthcare professional is best suited to decide if metformin is suitable for a person after considering their unique situation.

While taking metformin for diabetes management, certain foods should be limited or avoided, such as:

• High-carbohydrate foods like white bread, pasta, rice, and sweets or sugary beverages.
• Limit sodium consumption and keep it under 2300 milligrams per day to prevent excessive intake.
• Limit fiber consumption and keep it under 30 gm/day.
• High-fat foods including fried items, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products.
• Processed foods containing added sugars and unhealthy fats.
• Alcohol and excessive caffeine intake, which could disrupt blood sugar control and heighten the risk of lactic acidosis.

Keep in mind that dietary suggestions may differ based on an individual's medical background, health condition, and other factors. For personalized dietary advice when using metformin, consult a healthcare professional.

Indeed, there can be interactions between metformin oral and other medications. It is crucial to notify your healthcare professional of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are using prior to commencing metformin treatment. A few examples of medications that might interact with metformin include:

• When combined with metformin, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, and sulfonamides may elevate the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Diuretics like furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, and spironolactone can contribute to dehydration and heighten the risk of lactic acidosis when used alongside metformin.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen could increase the potential for kidney damage when taken in conjunction with metformin.
• Blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, might escalate the risk of hypoglycemia when administered with metformin.
• Certain psychiatric disorder treatments, like antipsychotics and antidepressants, can enhance the likelihood of weight gain and blood sugar imbalance when combined with metformin.

It's crucial to have a chat with your healthcare professional about any possible drug interactions before you dive into taking metformin or any other medication. Be informed and stay safe!

Metformin is a drug prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes by reducing glucose production in the liver and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Although generally safe and effective, certain individuals should refrain from taking metformin. Those with serious kidney or liver conditions may struggle to process the medication, leading to an increased risk of toxicity.

People with heart failure or a history of lactic acidosis should also steer clear of metformin due to potential negative side effects. Furthermore, it is advised that pregnant or breastfeeding women consult their healthcare professional before using metformin, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation remains unconfirmed.

In India, managing type 2 diabetes often involves medications other than metformin. Here's a list of top Metformin alternatives:

1. Sulfonylureas: These drugs encourage the pancreas to produce more insulin.
2. DPP-4 inhibitors:They slow down the breakdown of hormones that stimulate insulin release, such as Januvia, Nesina, Onglyza, and Tradjenta.
3. GLP-1 receptor agonists:These medications imitate hormone effects, which then promote insulin release and decrease appetite. Some examples include Adlyxin, Bydureon, Byetta, Ozempic, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Victoza.
4. SGLT-2 inhibitors: Drugs like Farxiga, Invokana, Jardiance, and Steglatro prevent glucose reabsorption by kidneys, increasing glucose excretion in urine.
5. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors:These medications (e.g., Acarbose/Glucobay and Miglitol/Glyset) slow carbohydrate absorption in the intestine to reduce blood sugar levels after meals.

A healthcare provider will recommend the most suitable alternative to metformin based on factors like a patient's health status, blood sugar control, and any existing medical conditions.

Metformin is a medication that is often recommended as the preferred treatment for type-2 diabetes due to its many benefits. Metformin primarily functions by reducing the blood sugar levels, which is done by limiting the glucose released by the liver. Additionally, it improves the body's ability to utilize insulin, further assisting in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Unlike other medications used to treat diabetes, Metformin is less likely to cause low blood sugar and may even help with weight loss. Studies have also shown that Metformin can help reduce the risk of heart disease and overall mortality in people with type-2 diabetes. Moreover, Metformin is an inexpensive medication that can be used safely as the first-line treatment for type-2 diabetes.

It is advised to eat a healthy, balanced diet that contains complex carbs, such as whole grains and vegetables, while limiting simple sugars and processed carbohydrates when using Metformin. This aids in controlling blood sugar levels and avoiding glucose spikes. Furthermore, it’s highly recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which when combined with Metformin raises the risk of lactic acidosis. To ensure that their diabetes is managed as effectively as possible, patients should talk to their healthcare professional about their dietary requirements and limits.

If you missed your dose of Metformin, immediately take it when you recall. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, you can take it and skip the missed one. It’s not a good practice to take an extra dose to compensate for the missed one, as it can cause serious overdosing side effects. If you have any concerns regarding missed doses or the management of your medication regimen, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

It is advised to store Metformin at room temperature (up to 25° C) away from heat, and keep it away from children and pets. Also, it is recommended to keep this drug away from direct sunlight, and damp/moist areas such as bathrooms as it may cause the drug to lose its efficacy.

Always check the expiration date of Metformin before buying, and keep it tightly concealed in its original container.

Metformin is a drug that is frequently prescribed for Type-2 diabetes, and there are numerous brands of it on the market. Many of the well-known Metformin brands available in India are:

• Glycomet
• Diaformin
• Bigomet
• Metformin
• Metformin SR
• Glyciphage
• Metformin XR
• Gluformin
• Reclimet
• Glimisave Metformin

Prices of Metformin tablets may vary on various factors, such as the brand of the drug, its manufacturing company, location purchased from, pharmacy stores etc. Here are the prices of a strip of 10 Metformin tablets from different brands:

• Glycomet 500 mg tablet - Rs. 90 to Rs. 160 per strip
• Glyciphage 500 mg tablet - Rs. 90 to Rs. 150 per strip
• Bigomet 500 mg tablet - Rs. 100 to Rs. 160 per strip
• Metformin SR 500 mg tablet - Rs. 80 to Rs. 150 per strip
• Reclimet 500 mg tablet - Rs. 100 to Rs. 160 per strip
• Gluformin 500 mg tablet - Rs. 80 to Rs. 150 per strip
• Metformin 500 mg tablet - Rs. 50 to Rs. 130 per strip
• Diaformin 500 mg tablet - Rs. 90 to Rs. 150 per strip
• Glimisave Metformin 500 mg tablet - Rs. 100 to Rs. 180 per strip
• Metformin XR 500 mg tablet - Rs. 180 to Rs. 250 per strip