Gluformin Tablet (Metformin)

Introductions for Gluformin Tablets

Gluformin 500 Tablet belongs to a group of anti-diabetic medicines called biguanides used in the treatment of Diabetes. It helps to lower the increased blood glucose level in type 2 diabetes patients. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic or lifelong disorder that affects the way our body processes glucose. People with type 2 diabetes either do not produce enough insulin or the insulin produced is unable to perform its function in the body (insulin resistance). Middle-aged or older individuals are most likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes, so it is also known as adult-onset diabetes.

Gluformin 500 Tablet is prescribed for the condition of Type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise alone cannot control blood sugar levels. It is the first-line therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes. Gluformin 500 Tablet restores the body's response to insulin, decreases the amount of blood sugar produced by the liver, and delays the absorption of sugar by the stomach or intestines. Besides, Gluformin Tablet has off-label usage in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) where it helps normalize the menstruation cycle by restoring the body's hormonal balance, lowering blood sugar levels, and stimulating ovulation.
Usually, Gluformin 500 Tablet does not cause very significant side effects. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or a metallic taste in the mouth. In very rare cases, it may cause a condition known as lactic acidosis (too much lactic acid in the body) with symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, muscle pain, etc. Your sugar level may go down while taking this medicine with heavy exercise, drinking excessive alcohol, or skipping meals. Talk to the doctor about any of the health conditions listed above that may require urgent medical treatment.

Gluformin 500 Tablet works best when coupled with a healthy lifestyle like losing weight if you are overweight (BMI >25), eating fewer calories (low fat and sugary food), and being more physically active (at least 150 min of activity every week).

Mechanism of Gluformin 500 Tablet

1. Reducing glucose production: Metformin reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver by inhibiting the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase. This leads to a decrease in blood glucose levels.

2. Improving insulin sensitivity: Metformin increases the sensitivity of the liver, muscle, and fat tissues to insulin, which helps these tissues to use glucose more effectively. This results in a decrease in blood glucose levels.

3. Reducing glucose absorption: Metformin may also reduce the absorption of glucose from the intestine, further lowering blood glucose levels.

Directions for Use

Gluformin 500 tablets should not be used unless prescribed by a doctor. Gluformin Tablet should be taken with meals to help reduce stomach or bowel side effects or as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on how often you take your tablets on the basis of your medical condition. Swallow Gluformin 500 Tablets of with a full glass of water.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Dosage

Overdose

Overdose of Gluformin Tablet is associated with lactic acidosis presenting with symptoms of drowsiness, rapid breathing, severe vomiting, diarrhea, and irregular heartbeats. If you experience any of the symptoms or think you have taken too much of this medicine, then contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose of this medicine, then take it as soon as you remember. If it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose of medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Uses of Gluformin 500 Tablet metformin

1. Type 2 diabetes: Gluformin 500 Tablet is used to treat type 2 diabetes, which is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.

2. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Metformin can also be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It helps to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce insulin resistance, which is a common symptom of PCOS.

3. Prediabetes: In some cases, Gluformin 500 Tablet may be prescribed for people with prediabetes, a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Metformin can help prevent or delay the development of diabetes in these cases.

4. Gestational diabetes: Gluformin 500 Tablet may be used to treat gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It can help to control blood sugar levels in pregnant women with this condition.

Precautions

1. Lactic acidosis: Metformin can increase the risk of a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, which can be fatal. This condition occurs when there is a build-up of lactic acid in the bloodstream. Symptoms may include muscle pain, weakness, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, and nausea. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

2. Kidney function: Metformin is eliminated from the body by the kidneys, so it should be used with caution in people with kidney problems. The dose may need to be adjusted or the medication may need to be discontinued if kidney function declines.

3. Liver function: Metformin is processed by the liver, so it should be used with caution in people with liver problems. The dose may need to be adjusted or the medication may need to be discontinued if liver function declines.

4. Hypoglycemia: Metformin can sometimes cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if taken with other medications that lower blood sugar. Symptoms may include sweating, shaking, confusion, dizziness, and fainting. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly and to talk to a healthcare professional about any medications that may interact with metformin.

5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Gluformin Tablet should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare professional before taking this medication.

6. Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when taken with metformin. It is important to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Side Effects

Side effects of Gluformin 500 MG

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Taste disturbance

Concerns

Q: Is taking Gluformin Tablet alone sufficient for diabetes?

A: Gluformin Tablet is used with a proper diet and exercise program. Single drug therapy with metformin can be given in pre-diabetes or at the onset of diabetes. In a diabetic at a later stage insulin production itself becomes very poor and a drug from another group of antidiabetics needs to be added to control high blood sugar.

Q: What should I tell the healthcare provider before I start treatment with Gluformin Tablet?

A: You must get screened for baseline Vitamin B12 levels, kidney and liver profile. Other factors like weight, body mass index (BMI), baseline blood sugar levels before starting the treatment should be noted.

Q: What kind of food should I include in my diet?

• A diet should be high in fibre, low in fat with adequate protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
• Diet should include boiled, steamed, or baked food.
• Ensure moderate use of edible oils (groundnut oil, olive oil).
• Maintain the regular meal timings and try to have 2-3 healthy snacks between meals like soups and salads.

Q: What should I avoid doing, being a diabetic patient?

• Do not shop when you are hungry. You could be tempted to buy oil and fried food.
• Avoid cream soups, carrot juice, deep-fried vegetables, vegetable curries with excess oil.
• Avoid white bread, potato, noodles, corn flakes, biryani, naan, fried rice etc.
• Avoid cheese, milkshakes, ice creams.
• Try to avoid pork, beef, soft drinks, sugarcane juice, sweetened health drinks and beverages.

Q: Is it necessary to continue exercising after starting Gluformin Tablet?

A: Gluformin Tablet for diabetes or decreasing the sugar level in one's blood is more effective when used in combination with regular exercises and a proper diet.

Q: Will Gluformin Tablet reduce weight?

A: No, Gluformin Tablet does not reduce weight. It neither increases nor decreases the weight. You should continue to exercise and follow a diet while on this medicine.

Q: How should Gluformin 500 MG tablet be stored?

A: Gluformin 500 MG tablet should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the medication if it has passed the expiry date.

Q: Is Gluformin 500 MG tablet safe for long-term use?

A: Gluformin 500 MG tablet is safe for long-term use if prescribed by a doctor and taken according to instructions. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is important for individuals taking Gluformin 500 MG tablet for an extended period.

Interactions with other medicines

• Verapamil, rifampicin, cimetidine, olaparib alter the effectiveness of Gluformin Tablet in the body.
• Diuretics and thiazide, oral contraceptives, isoniazid, corticosteroids, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, calcium channel blockers, thyroid medicines, oestrogen tablets, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptors antagonists, etc. increases blood sugar levels and can cause damage in the kidneys, especially in individuals who are suffering from kidney disorders.
• Discuss with your doctor about any other medicine, herbal preparation and supplements you are taking currently to avoid any possible interactions.