Metformin 500 mg is a widely used medication primarily for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps manage blood sugar levels by improving how the body responds to insulin and reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

What is Metformin 500 mg?

Metformin 500 mg is a medication in the biguanide class, commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. It can also be used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and is occasionally prescribed off-label for other conditions such as gestational diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

How Does Metformin Work?

Metformin works by:

• Reducing glucose production in the liver.
• Decreasing glucose absorption in the intestines.
• Increasing insulin sensitivity, helping muscle and fat cells better utilize glucose from the blood.

This action helps lower blood sugar levels without causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Dosage and Administration

• Starting Dose: Typically, treatment begins with 500 mg once or twice daily with meals.
• Maintenance Dose: The dose may be increased gradually based on blood sugar control, up to a maximum of 2,000 mg to 2,500 mg per day, divided into two or three doses.
• Extended-Release Formulations: For extended-release versions, the usual starting dose is 500 mg to 1,000 mg once daily with the evening meal.

Always follow the dosage instructions given by your healthcare provider.

Side Effects of Metformin 500 mg

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Loss of appetite

These side effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by taking the medication with food.

• Serious Side Effects:
  • Lactic acidosis: A rare but severe condition characterized by muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach discomfort, dizziness, and feeling cold.
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency: Long-term use of Metformin may reduce vitamin B12 levels, leading to fatigue and anemia.

If you experience symptoms like muscle pain or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions

• Kidney Function: Metformin should be avoided or used with caution in people with severe kidney issues.
• Liver Disease: Use with caution in those with liver disease due to the risk of lactic acidosis.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, so it should be avoided.
• Pregnancy: Metformin is generally avoided during pregnancy unless necessary, as other medications are often preferred for managing gestational diabetes.

How to Store Metformin 500 mg

• Store at room temperature (between 20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F).
• Keep it away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

1. What is Metformin 500 mg used for?

Metformin 500 mg is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It can also be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and may be prescribed for managing gestational diabetes and metabolic syndrome in some cases.

2. How does Metformin 500 mg work?

Metformin works by:

• Reducing glucose production in the liver.
• Decreasing glucose absorption from the intestines.
• Increasing insulin sensitivity, helping muscle and fat cells utilize glucose better.

These mechanisms help lower blood sugar levels without causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

3. What is the usual dosage of Metformin 500 mg?

The typical starting dose is 500 mg once or twice daily with meals. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage based on your blood sugar control, up to a maximum of 2,500 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. Extended-release versions may have different dosing instructions.

4. What are the common side effects of Metformin 500 mg?

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite

These are usually temporary and can be minimized by taking Metformin with food.

5. What are the serious side effects of Metformin 500 mg?

Serious side effects may include:

• Lactic acidosis: A rare but serious condition characterized by symptoms like muscle pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and feeling cold.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Prolonged use of Metformin can reduce vitamin B12 levels, leading to fatigue and anemia.

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.