Metformin is an oral biguanide antihyperglycemic medication widely used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps lower both fasting and post meal blood glucose while improving the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. Metformin 500mg tablets are available as prescription medications in Canada.
Metformin works through several complementary mechanisms. Its most important action is reducing hepatic glucose production, meaning it decreases the amount of glucose released into the bloodstream by the liver. It also improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, increasing glucose uptake and utilization, while reducing intestinal absorption of glucose to a lesser extent.
Unlike medications that directly stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, metformin does not normally increase insulin secretion. Instead, it improves the effectiveness of existing insulin and reduces excess glucose production. For this reason, metformin used alone has a relatively low tendency to cause hypoglycemia compared with medications that directly increase insulin secretion.
Metformin is commonly used alongside diet and physical activity to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Depending on the individual patient, it may be used alone or combined with other glucose lowering medications when additional blood sugar control is required.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Metformin Hydrochloride
- Strength: 500mg per tablet
- Quantity: 100 Tablets
- Drug Class: Biguanide Antihyperglycemic
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
- Primary Use: Management of Type 2 Diabetes
Metformin is eliminated primarily through the kidneys, making renal function an important consideration during treatment. Current prescribing information recommends assessment of kidney function before treatment and periodically thereafter. Severe renal impairment significantly increases the risk of metformin accumulation and associated complications.
One of the most important, although uncommon, risks associated with metformin is lactic acidosis, a potentially serious buildup of lactic acid in the blood. The risk is increased by factors including significant kidney impairment, severe liver disease, hypoxic conditions, excessive alcohol consumption, certain surgical situations, and some iodinated contrast imaging procedures.
Common adverse effects are primarily gastrointestinal and can include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, gas, and reduced appetite. These effects are often most noticeable when treatment is first initiated and may improve as the body adjusts to therapy.
Long term metformin treatment can also reduce vitamin B12 levels in some patients, so periodic assessment may be appropriate when deficiency is suspected or during prolonged therapy.
Metformin is not a substitute for insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes and is not used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis. Treatment should be individualized according to blood glucose control, kidney function, other medications, and the patient’s overall medical condition.
Metformin 500mg is a prescription medication and should be used according to the directions and monitoring recommendations of a qualified healthcare professional.
