Metatime Xr 500

METATIME XR 500

METATIME XR 500 is an extended-release oral anti-diabetic medication manufactured by Mankind Pharma Pvt Ltd.

• Composition Each tablet contains 500 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride in an extended-release formulation.

• Uses METATIME XR 500 is primarily used to manage:

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: It helps control high blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from the intestines, and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. This helps prevent serious complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, heart attack, and stroke.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): In women, it can improve insulin sensitivity, help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce symptoms like excessive hair growth and acne, and support weight management.

• Dosage and Administration METATIME XR 500 should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Typical Guidance: It is usually taken once or twice daily with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. The usual starting dose is 500 mg once or twice daily.
  • Method: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it. Taking it with food is recommended to prevent nausea and abdominal discomfort.
  • Consistency: Take the medicine regularly, ideally at the same time each day, for optimal effectiveness. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

• Side Effects

  • Common Side Effects: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, weakness, indigestion, metallic taste, abdominal discomfort, headache, and loss of appetite.
  • Serious Side Effects:
    • Lactic Acidosis: This is a rare but severe condition. Symptoms include unusual tiredness, dizziness, severe drowsiness, muscle pain, deep or rapid breathing, stomach pain with nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, chills, blue/cold skin, or a slow/irregular heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
    • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use may lead to reduced Vitamin B12 levels, potentially causing anemia, fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or headache. Supplements may be required.
    • Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Less common when used alone, but can occur when taken with other anti-diabetic medicines, alcohol, or if meals are skipped. Symptoms include sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. It is advisable to carry a sugar source for immediate relief.

• Precautions

  • Inform your doctor about any pre-existing kidney, liver, or heart conditions. METATIME XR 500 is generally not recommended for severe kidney or liver disease.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use.
  • Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is crucial during treatment.
  • Inform your doctor if you are scheduled for an X-ray, scan, or major surgery, or if you are fasting.
  • Adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regimen alongside this medication for best results.

• Storage Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Maintain storage temperatures between 10ºC and 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep the medicine in its original packaging.

What is METATIME XR 500 used for?

METATIME XR 500 is an anti-diabetic medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps control blood sugar levels and prevent associated complications like nerve pain, kidney problems, and vision issues. Additionally, it is used to treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, helping to regulate menstrual cycles, promote ovulation, and support weight management.

How does METATIME XR 500 work?

METATIME XR 500 contains Metformin, which belongs to a class of medications called biguanides. It works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin, and slowing down the absorption of glucose from the intestines into the bloodstream. This combined action helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

What is the usual dosage for METATIME XR 500?

The usual recommended dose for METATIME XR 500 is 500 mg once daily. It should be taken as advised by your physician, usually with food to prevent nausea and abdominal discomfort. It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed it without consulting your doctor. For extended-release forms, the tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.

What are the possible side effects of METATIME XR 500?

Common side effects of METATIME XR 500 include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, indigestion, metallic taste, headache, and loss of appetite. With long-term use, it can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency. A rare but serious side effect is lactic acidosis, which may present with symptoms like muscle pain, excessive tiredness, or trouble breathing.

Is METATIME XR 500 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

METATIME XR 500 should be used with caution during pregnancy. Limited human studies exist, but animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects. It is generally considered safe if prescribed by a doctor during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, METATIME XR 500 is excreted in small amounts in breast milk. It could be taken by breastfeeding mothers only if prescribed by their doctor, as the amount is significantly low to cause any side effects.

Can METATIME XR 500 be taken with other medications?

METATIME XR 500 can interact with certain medications. For example, taking it with insulin or sulfonylureas (like glimepiride or glyburide) can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide) and corticosteroids can also interact with METATIME XR 500. It's important to inform your physician about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Cationic medicines such as amiloride, digoxin, and morphine can increase metformin levels, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors like topiramate can increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

What precautions should be taken with METATIME XR 500?

Before taking METATIME XR 500, inform your doctor about any kidney, liver, or heart issues. Your doctor may assess your kidney function before prescribing this medicine. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is important. If you experience deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain, seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of lactic acidosis.

What happens if a dose of METATIME XR 500 is missed?

If you miss a dose of METATIME XR 500, take it as soon as you remember with food. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should METATIME XR 500 be stored?

METATIME XR 500 should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep the medicine in a tightly closed container and always out of the reach of children. Ensure the medication is used before its expiry date.