Carbophage Xr 500 Tablet

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET, manufactured by Merck Ltd, is an extended-release oral medication primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Carbophage XR 500 Tablet
  • Common Name: Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablet

• Composition:

  • Each extended-release tablet contains Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg.

• Uses: CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is prescribed to:

  • Control high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.
  • Prevent further complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, stroke, and heart attack.
  • Manage prediabetes conditions.
  • Treat Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, by addressing insulin resistance and potentially regulating menstrual cycles and improving fertility.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is typically taken orally once daily, preferably with the evening meal.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet, as it is an extended-release formulation.
  • The dosage is determined by a doctor based on individual needs, blood glucose levels, and response to treatment. Dosage may be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum recommended daily dose of 2000 mg.
  • Taking the medicine with food helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort or pain, flatulence, and a metallic taste in the mouth. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.
  • Serious Side Effects (Rare): Lactic acidosis (symptoms include rapid breathing, muscle pain, stomach pain, weakness, unusual tiredness, reduced body temperature), and vitamin B12 deficiency (symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, headache, numbness or tingling in hands or feet). Seek immediate medical attention if serious side effects occur.

• Precautions:

  • Avoid taking if allergic to metformin or any components of the tablet.
  • Not recommended for individuals with severe kidney impairment, metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), or severe liver problems.
  • Use with caution in patients with heart conditions, heart failure, dehydration, or vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • Alcohol: Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol as it can lower blood sugar and increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor. Generally considered safe during pregnancy if prescribed, but caution is advised during breastfeeding.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking, as CARBOPHAGE XR 500 can interact with various drugs including certain pain medications (NSAIDs), diuretics, asthma medications, and iodinated contrast agents used in scans.
  • Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is essential during treatment.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

What is CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET used for?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. It can also be prescribed for prediabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), helping to improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with PCOS. It helps prevent serious diabetes complications like kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, and reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.

How does CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET work?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET contains Metformin (500 mg), which is an oral antidiabetic medication belonging to the biguanide class. It works in several ways: by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, decreasing the absorption of glucose from the intestines after meals, and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to use glucose more effectively.

What is the usual dosage for CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is typically taken once daily, preferably with the evening meal. Your doctor will determine the exact dosage based on your condition and response to treatment. The dosage may be gradually increased by 500mg increments weekly, with a usual maximum recommended daily dose of 2000mg. It is crucial to swallow the tablet whole with water and not to crush, chew, or split it, as this is an extended-release formulation.

What are the possible side effects of CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET?

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort or pain, flatulence (gas), and a metallic taste in the mouth. These side effects are usually mild, temporary, and often resolve as your body adjusts to the medicine. Less common but potentially serious side effects include lactic acidosis (a rare but severe condition with too much acid in the blood) and vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include rapid breathing, stomach pain, and feeling weak or tired. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, contact your doctor.

Is CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, though it should only be taken if prescribed by your doctor. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects on the baby. Caution is advised during breastfeeding as metformin is known to pass into breast milk, although the amount is generally low. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET be taken with other medications?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET can interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal preparations you are taking. Interactions can occur with cationic medicines (e.g., cimetidine, ranolazine), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, zonisamide), and iodinated contrast materials used in imaging tests, which can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Concomitant use with other antidiabetic medicines may increase the risk of low blood sugar.

What precautions should be taken while taking CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET?

Several precautions should be observed. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, heart failure, metabolic acidosis, dehydration, or a history of vitamin B12 deficiency, as these conditions may require dose adjustments or mean the medication is not suitable for you. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is recommended.

What happens if a dose of CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of CARBOPHAGE XR 500 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 double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET be stored?

CARBOPHAGE XR 500 TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it in its original packaging and out of sight and reach of children and pets. Typically, it should be stored at room temperature (between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC).