Mefomin Sr 500 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

MEFOMIN SR 500 MG TABLET

MEFOMIN SR 500 MG TABLET is a medication manufactured by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

• Name: Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet (Brand name).
• Composition: Each tablet contains 500 mg of Metformin Hydrochloride as the active ingredient.
• Uses:
  • Primarily prescribed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels.
  • Also used to treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, where it helps improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce symptoms like acne and excess hair growth. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, delaying glucose absorption from the intestines, and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Dosage and Administration:
  • Take as directed by your physician.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
  • It is best taken with or after a meal to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and abdominal discomfort. For optimal results, take it regularly at the same time each day.
• Side Effects:
  • Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain/discomfort, loss of appetite, metallic taste, headache, and flatulence. These usually resolve over time.
  • Serious (Rare): Lactic acidosis (symptoms include deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, severe tiredness, muscle cramps), and Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.
• Precautions:
  • Inform your doctor about any history of kidney, liver, or heart problems.
  • Not recommended for individuals with severe kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, or metabolic acidosis.
  • Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding; consult your doctor.
  • Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
  • Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is important.
• Storage: Store in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet:

What is Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet used for?

Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet is an anti-diabetic medicine primarily used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels. It helps control blood sugar and prevent serious complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage, blindness, and nerve damage. Additionally, it is used to treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, helping to improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce associated symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth.

How does Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet work?

Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet contains Metformin, which belongs to a class of medicines called biguanides. It works by reducing the amount of glucose (sugar) produced by the liver, decreasing the absorption of glucose from the intestines, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, a natural hormone that controls blood sugar levels. In PCOS, its action of improving insulin sensitivity helps balance hormones and restore menstrual regularity.

What is the usual dosage for Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet?

The dosage of Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your individual medical condition and response to treatment. It is generally recommended to take the tablet whole with or after a meal to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. For Type 2 Diabetes, common initial dosages might be 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, taken with meals. The maximum dose typically does not exceed 2550 mg per day. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and not exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet?

Common side effects of Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or discomfort, gas, weakness, indigestion, headache, metallic taste, and decreased appetite. These usually resolve over time. Long-term use may also lead to a deficiency in Vitamin B12. A rare but serious side effect is lactic acidosis, which requires immediate medical attention and presents with symptoms like stomach pain with muscle cramps, vomiting, reduced body temperature, and difficulty breathing.

Is Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor, though it should be used with caution.
• Breastfeeding: It should be used with caution during breastfeeding as small amounts of metformin can be excreted in breast milk. It is often recommended to consult your doctor, and breastfeeding might be advised to be paused until treatment is completed and the medication is eliminated from the body.

Can Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet can interact with certain other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking. Medications such as pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib), asthma medications (e.g., salbutamol, terbutaline), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), and iodine-containing contrast media for X-rays or scans can interact with Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet. Contraceptive pills may also affect how your body handles sugar, potentially requiring a dosage adjustment.

What precautions should be taken while using Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet?

Several precautions should be observed while taking Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet:

• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it can dangerously lower blood sugar and increase the risk of a serious condition called lactic acidosis.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems, severe infections, or are dehydrated, as these conditions can increase the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels and kidney function is essential during treatment.
• Driving: If you experience symptoms of low or high blood sugar, such as dizziness or weakness, your ability to drive or operate machinery may be impaired.
• Diet and Exercise: This medication works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
• Do not stop suddenly: Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a sudden rise in blood sugar levels.

What happens if a dose of Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet, take it as soon as you remember, preferably 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet be stored?

Mefomin SR 500 MG Tablet should be stored in a tightly closed container in a cool and dry place, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.