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Introduction About METFORM 500MG TABLET
METFORM 500MG TABLET is an anti-diabetic medication is used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS in women). It helps control blood sugar levels and its associated complications like insulin resistance, weight gain, nerve pain etc. METFORM 500MG TABLET should be used along with diet, exercise and lifestyle changes to achieve the best results.
Take this medicine as advised by your physician. It is best taken with food to help prevent nausea and abdominal discomfort. It’s important to take the medication regularly, ideally at the same time each day, to maximize its effectiveness. Do not stop taking this medicine unless advised by your doctor. Managing your diabetes also involves following the recommended diet and exercise plan, which plays a crucial role in controlling your condition.
Before taking METFORM 500MG TABLET, inform your doctor about any kidney, liver, or heart issues. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their healthcare provider. Your doctor may assess your kidney function before prescribing METFORM 500MG TABLET. Additionally, avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Common side effects of Metfom 500mg tablet include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems.
Some people may develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) when this medicine is taken along with other antidiabetic medicines, alcohol, or upon skipping a meal. If these side effect bothers you or worsens contact your doctor. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly while taking it.
Key Composition
- Metformin 500mg
Uses Of METFORM 500MG TABLET
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Poly-cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Benefits of METFORM 500MG TABLET
Benefits of METFORM 500MG TABLET in blood sugar management:
- Helps control blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes
- Improves insulin sensitivity and lowers insulin resistance
- Helps prevent long-term complications like nerve damage and heart problems
- Effective when used with a balanced diet and exercise routine
Benefits of METFORM 500MG TABLET in PCOS
- Improves insulin sensitivity: Helps reduce insulin levels in the blood.
- Regulates menstrual cycles: Can help restore regular periods.
- Reduces symptoms: Helps decrease excessive hair growth and acne.
- Aids in weight management: Supports weight loss by addressing insulin resistance.
- Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes: Lowers the likelihood of developing diabetes in women with PCOS.
- Supports overall health: Works best with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
How METFORM 500MG TABLET Works
METFORM 500MG TABLET for Blood Sugar Control:
As an oral medication, Metformin, the active ingredient of METFORM 500MG TABLET works by improving the body's response to insulin and reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. This helps in controlling high blood sugar levels and its complications such as nerve damage, kidney problems, and vision issues associated with diabetes.
While METFORM 500MG TABLET helps manage diabetes, it is most effective when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any adjustments to your diabetes treatment plan.
METFORM 500MG TABLET for PCOS and Insulin Resistance:
METFORM 500MG TABLET works for PCOS primarily by improving insulin sensitivity. In women with PCOS, the body often becomes resistant to insulin, leading to higher insulin levels, which can disrupt hormone balance. METFORM 500MG TABLET helps the body use insulin more effectively, reducing excess insulin production. This helps regulate the hormonal imbalances that contribute to symptoms like irregular periods, excess hair growth, and acne.
By improving insulin sensitivity, METFORM 500MG TABLET can also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is common in women with PCOS.
How to use METFORM 500MG TABLET
- Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew it, as this may affect its effectiveness
METFORM 500MG TABLET dosage:
- METFORM 500MG TABLET is typically taken once or twice daily with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the exact dosage
- The usual starting dose is 500 mg once or twice daily with meals
- Never adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor
- Try to take METFORM 500MG TABLET at the same times each day
METFORM 500MG TABLET: Misuse or Wrong use
- If someone takes more METFORM 500MG TABLET than prescribed, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
- Overuse or incorrect usage may cause side effects such as lactic acidosis, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or other adverse reactions.
What if I forgot to take METFORM 500MG TABLET
If you miss a dose of METFORM 500MG TABLET take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
If you or anyone else accidentally takes more METFORM 500MG TABLET, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital. Symptoms of overdose are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain with muscle cramps, weakness or fatigue, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, or lightheadedness and slow or irregular heartbeat.
Side Effects Of METFORM 500MG TABLET
Like all medicines, METFORM 500MG TABLET may cause certain side effects in some individuals, although not everybody gets them.
The most common side effects of taking METFORM 500MG TABLET are:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- vomiting
- flatulence
- weakness
- indigestion
- metallic taste
- abdominal discomfort
- headache
- loss of appetite
- Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
When to consult your doctor?
- Lactic Acidosis symptoms such as weakness or fatigue, unusual muscle pain or cramping, trouble breathing, dizziness or lightheadedness, abdominal discomfort, nausea, or vomiting
- Severe Allergic Reactions symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), difficulty breathing, severe dizziness
- Kidney Problems symptoms such as swelling in the legs or ankles, persistent fatigue, and changes in urine output
- Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) symptoms such as shaking or trembling, sweating, confusion, and rapid heartbeat
- Severe Stomach Problems such as pancreatitis symptoms such as severe stomach pain, Nausea, or vomiting
How To Manage Side Effects
Diarrhea
Drink Fluids: Drink clear fluids such as water, broths, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS).
Electrolytes: If you're losing a lot of fluids (for example, from frequent diarrhea), consider drinking an electrolyte solution to help replenish lost minerals like potassium and sodium.
BRAT Diet: Try to take Bananas, Rice (white rice), Apple sauce and Toast (plain, without butter) to control diarrhoea management.
Avoid Certain Foods: While recovering avoid the following food items such as fatty, greasy, or fried foods, spicy foods, dairy products (especially if you have a temporary lactose intolerance), caffeinated drinks and alcohol and artificial sweeteners like sorbitol.
Over-the-Counter Medications: You can take over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide, Bismuth subsalicylate if appropriate for you. Follow the recommended dosage.
Headache
- Rest in a Quiet, Dark Room: Find a calm, quiet space away from bright lights and loud noises. Lie down and close your eyes.
- Hydrate: Dehydration can contribute to headaches, so drink plenty of water.
- Apply a Cold or Warm Compress: A cold pack on your forehead may reduce pain, or a warm compress on your neck or shoulders can relieve tension.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if appropriate for you. Follow the recommended dosage.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching can help reduce stress and alleviate headache symptoms.
Nausea And Vomiting
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Avoid heavy or greasy foods. Opt for bland foods like crackers, toast, or bananas.
- Stay Hydrated: Sip on clear fluids like water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks, Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea. Try ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger ale (ensure it contains real ginger).
- Avoid Strong Odors: Minimize exposure to smells that might trigger nausea, such as perfumes or cooking odors.
Warning & Precautions
Pregnancy
Use with CautionMETFORM 500MG TABLET should be used with caution during pregnancy. There are limited human studies regarding the use of METFORM 500MG TABLET in pregnant women. Although, available animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; a risk to the growing fetus cannot be excluded. Therefore, please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Breastfeeding
Consult your doctorMETFORM 500MG TABLET is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Although it is considered relatively safe for use during breastfeeding, it’s important to discuss its use with your doctor. Your healthcare provider will assess the benefits and potential risks to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
Driving and Using Machines
Use with CautionDo not drive or operate machines if you experience signs of high/low blood sugar.
Alcohol
Consult your doctorAvoid consumption of alcohol while taking METFORM 500MG TABLET since it may alter the effect of the medicine.
Kidney
Consult your doctorMETFORM 500MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. It is generally unsafe in patients with severe kidney disease. Dosage adjustment and careful monitoring are required in such patients. Therefore, inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing kidney diseases as a precaution.
Liver
Monitoring requiredMETFORM 500MG TABLET is probably unsafe in patients having severe liver disease. Regular medical check-ups and blood tests are required in such patients. Therefore, inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver diseases as a precaution.
Allergy
ContraindicatedDo not take this medicine if you are allergic to METFORM 500MG TABLET or any other ingredients of this medicine.
Lungs
Monitoring requiredMETFORM 500MG TABLET is generally unsafe in patients with severe lung infection or respiratory tract infection. Dosage adjustment and careful monitoring may be needed. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Heart Disease
Monitoring requiredMETFORM 500MG TABLET is generally unsafe in patients with acute heart failure or a recent heart attack. Dosage adjustment and careful monitoring may be needed. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Use In Pediatrics
Consult your doctorMETFORM 500MG TABLET should be used in children aged below 18 years only if prescribed by the physician. It is not suitable for use in children aged below 10 years.
Use In Geriatrics
Use with CautionMETFORM 500MG TABLET should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged above 65 years). Consult and inform your doctor before taking it.
Other Warnings for METFORM 500MG TABLET
Before taking METFORM 500MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you:
- are about to have any X-ray or scan
- are about a have a major surgery
- are in fasting
Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD
METFORM 500MG TABLET is generally not safe for use if you:
- have severe, uncontrollable diabetes
- have lactic acidosis or ketoacidosis
- are dehydrated
- have any systemic infection
- have shock or problems in blood circulation
- have breathing problems
- are an alcoholic
Safety Advice
- Follow the prescribed diet and exercise plan along with taking this medication for best results.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels and kidney functions regularly while taking this medicine.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Take this tablet with food, it helps to improve absorption and reduces stomach discomfort
- METFORM 500MG TABLET can cause dehydration, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your body process the medication effectively.
Diet and Lifestyle Advice
Lifestyle Changes to Follow While Taking METFORM 500MG TABLET
- Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and refined carbohydrates to help manage blood sugar levels.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps control blood sugar levels.
- Weight Management: If overweight, losing even a small amount of weight (5-10%) can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and help manage PCOS symptoms.
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels to ensure they stay within the target range set by your doctor.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall health and prevent dehydration.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it can interfere with blood sugar control and increase the risk of side effects.
- Follow Doctor's Advice: Adhere to the prescribed dosage of METFORM 500MG TABLET and attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Drug - Drug interaction
Inform your physician if you are taking any of the following medicine before taking Metform Tablet:
1. Insulin and Sulfonylureas (e.g., glimepiride or glyburide):
- Interaction: These drugs can intensify the blood sugar-lowering effect of METFORM 500MG TABLET.
- Effect: The combination of METFORM 500MG TABLET with insulin or sulfonylureas (like glimepiride or glyburide) increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
2. Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide)
- Interaction: Diuretics can lead to dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance, which may increase the risk of lactic acidosis when used with METFORM 500MG TABLET.
- Effect: This combination can elevate blood glucose levels or cause low blood pressure and kidney dysfunction.
3. Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone)
- Interaction: Corticosteroids can increase blood sugar levels by raising insulin resistance.
- Effect: This interaction may lead to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), reducing the effectiveness of METFORM 500MG TABLET.
4. ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)
- Interaction: ACE inhibitors can reduce kidney function and increase the concentration of METFORM 500MG TABLET in the blood.
- Effect: Elevated METFORM 500MG TABLET levels can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect.
5. Beta-Blockers (e.g., Metoprolol, Atenolol)
- Interaction: Beta-blockers can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and impair the body's ability to respond to low blood sugar.
- Effect: While beta-blockers do not directly interact with METFORM 500MG TABLET , the masking of symptoms may be dangerous for diabetic patients.
6. Thyroid Medications (e.g., Levothyroxine)
- Interaction: Some thyroid medications may affect the metabolism of METFORM 500MG TABLET, and vice versa.
- Effect: The combination may lead to either hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, depending on how the thyroid medication influences glucose metabolism.
7. Fibrates (e.g., Gemfibrozil, Fenofibrate)
- Interaction: Fibrates, which are used to manage high cholesterol, may increase the risk of kidney problems when used with metformin.
- Effect: The combination can increase the risk of renal impairment, leading to the accumulation of metformin in the blood.
8. Contraceptive Pills (Oral Birth Control)
- Interaction: Some oral contraceptives can increase insulin resistance, potentially reducing the effectiveness of metformin.
- Effect: This may lead to higher blood sugar levels in some individuals.
9. Antibiotics (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole)
- Interaction: Certain antibiotics can alter kidney function or directly affect blood sugar levels, potentially interacting with metformin.
- Effect: This can lead to either hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, depending on the antibiotic.
Synopsis
| Drug | : | Metformin |
| Pharmacological Category | : | Biguanides |
| Therapeutic Indication | : | Type II Diabetes mellitus |
| Dosage Forms | : | Tablet |
More Information
Effectiveness of METFORM 500MG TABLET
METFORM 500MG TABLET is highly effective in managing blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes and conditions like PCOS. It works by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and helping cells absorb glucose more efficiently. In addition to controlling blood sugar, METFORM 500MG TABLET can help regulate menstrual cycles, promote ovulation in women with PCOS, and support weight management. Its effectiveness is maximized when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes. However, the exact effectiveness can vary from person to person, and it's essential to follow your doctor's advice for optimal results.
Relevant Health Articles:
FAQs About METFORM 500MG TABLET
Q: What are uses of METFORM 500MG TABLET?
A:METFORM 500MG TABLET is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus and PCOS. It helps to control blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver.
Q: What are the common side effects of METFORM 500MG TABLET?
A: Common side effects includes diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, weakness, indigestion, changes in taste, metallic taste, abdominal discomfort, headache, loss of appetite and Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use). These usually improve as your body gets used to the medication.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET cause weight loss?
A: Some people may experience mild weight loss while taking this medicine, though it is not a weight loss drug. It is often used as part of a comprehensive approach to managing Type 2 diabetes, including diet and exercise.
Q: Is METFORM 500MG TABLET safe for long-term use?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET is generally considered safe for long-term use, but it requires regular monitoring of kidney function, as it can sometimes affect kidney health in rare cases.
Q: What are the serious side effects of METFORM 500MG TABLET?
A: Although rare, serious side effects include lactic acidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur if there is a build-up of lactic acid in the body. Symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and unusual tiredness.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET be taken with other medications?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET can be taken with many other medications, but it’s important to consult your doctor before combining it with other drugs, especially those that affect kidney function or blood sugar levels.
Q: How should METFORM 500MG TABLET be taken?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET is typically taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of METFORM 500MG TABLET?
A: If you miss a dose of METFORM 500MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET cause low blood sugar?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET by itself does not typically cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), but the risk may increase if it is used in combination with other diabetes medications, especially insulin or sulfonylureas.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET be used for Type 1 diabetes?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET is not used to manage Type 1 diabetes, as this condition is characterized by insufficient insulin production. However, it may be prescribed to Type 1 diabetics who are overweight and have insulin resistance.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET Cause Vitamin B12 deficiency?
A: Long-term use of METFORM 500MG TABLET can reduce Vitamin B12 absorption, potentially leading to a deficiency. It's recommended to monitor B12 levels and consider supplementation if necessary.
Q: What should I avoid while taking METFORM 500MG TABLET?
A: You should avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking METFORM 500MG TABLET, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Also, avoid dehydration, as it can impact kidney function.
Q: How long does it take for METFORM 500MG TABLET to start working?
A: METFORM 500MG TABLET typically starts to lower blood sugar levels within a few days of starting management, but it may take several weeks to see the full benefit.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET be stopped suddenly?
A: It’s important to not stop METFORM 500MG TABLET abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Any changes in medication should be done under medical supervision.
Q: Can METFORM 500MG TABLET be used to manage PCOS?
A: Yes, METFORM 500MG TABLET is sometimes prescribed to women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to help regulate insulin levels and improve symptoms such as irregular periods and infertility.
Q: Can I buy METFORM 500MG TABLET online at Netmeds?
A: Yes, you can purchase METFORM 500MG TABLET easily at Netmeds. Simply search for " METFORM 500MG TABLET" on the platform, select the appropriate product, and place your order for quick home delivery. Ensure you have a valid prescription, as METFORM 500MG TABLET is a prescription-only medication.
References
1. KD. Tripathi. Insulin, Oral Hypoglycaemic Drugs and Glucagon. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 275.
2. Calette Corcoran; Tibb F. Jacobs. Metformin. StatPearls. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National center for biotechnology information. PMC. PubMed Central. [Revised on May 2022]. [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
3. Shuyan Gu, Jihao Shi, Zhiliu Tang, Monika Sawhney, Huimei Hu, Lizheng Shi, Vivian Fonseca, Hengjin Dong. Comparison of Glucose Lowering Effect of Metformin and Acarbose in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis. PLOS ONE. May 2015. [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
4. Milpharm Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in June 2020] [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
5. Rx Farma Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in September 2019] [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
6. Merck Santé S.A.S. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. [Revised in April 2017] [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
7. Franco Indian Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd. GLYCIPHAGE® GLYCIPHAGE 850® GLYCIPHAGE 250®TABLETS. (ORAL ANTI-HYPERGLYCEMIC AGENT). [Accessed on 13th September 2025] click here
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