Description
Complete Handbook on Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet: Usage and Insight
| Medicine | Carbophage SR 500mg Tablet |
| Marketed By | Merck Ltd |
| Active Ingredient | Metformin 500mg |
| Storage | Store below 30°C |
| Consume Type | Oral |
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet – Introduction
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tab is an oral antihyperglycemic agent that belongs to the biguanide class of medications. It is specifically designed for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to help regulate blood sugar levels. The SR stands for sustained release, which means the medication is formulated to release the active ingredient, metformin hydrochloride, slowly over time. This slow release helps maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the day and reduces gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with immediate-release metformin.
How Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet Works: A Closer Look
Metformin, the active ingredient in Carbophage SR, works primarily by:
- Reducing Hepatic Glucose Production: Metformin inhibits gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, processes in the liver that generate glucose.
- Improving Insulin Sensitivity: It increases the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin, enhancing glucose uptake and utilization by muscle cells.
- Decreasing Intestinal Absorption of Glucose: Metformin reduces glucose absorption from the intestines.
These combined actions help lower blood glucose levels and improve overall glycemic control without causing significant hypoglycemia when used alone.
Use
In the management of Type 2 Diabetes MellitusÂ
(Particularly in overweight patients, when diet and exercise alone have not adequately controlled blood glucose levels. It may also be combined with other antidiabetic agents, including insulin, in cases where monotherapy does not achieve sufficient glycemic control.)
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet – The BenefitsÂ
Carbophage SR 500 helps maintain consistent blood sugar levels throughout the day. Unlike some other antidiabetic medications, metformin typically does not cause weight gain and may even support weight loss. When used alone, it also lowers the risk of low blood sugar episodes compared to sulfonylureas or insulin. Some studies even suggest that metformin may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in diabetic patients.
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet – A Usage Guide
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the prescribed Carbophage SR 500 mg Tab dosage without consulting your doctor.Â
- Typically, the starting dose for adults is one Carbophage SR 500mg tablet once daily with the evening meal. The dose can be gradually increased by 500 mg every 1-2 weeks based on the patient’s glycemic response and tolerance, with a maximum recommended dose of 2000 mg daily.
- The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It should not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as it is an extended-release formulation, and altering its form may affect the controlled release of the medication.
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet – Side Effects
Most adverse effects of the Metformin SR disappear when your body gets used to the medication and doesn’t require medical attention. See your physician if they continue or if you have concerns about them.
Common Side Effects
- Weight Gain
- Edema (swelling)
- Headache
- Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain and Bloating
- Fatigue or Weakness
- UTI
[Note: Different drugs can cause varying side effects. To get accurate information about a medication’s side effects, refer to the official prescription information or consult your healthcare provider.]
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet – A Guide to Safety
 Alcohol
Unsafe
When using Carbophage SR 500 mg Tab, it is important to avoid alcohol in order to prevent the occurrence of a dangerous condition called lactic acidosis, which involves the buildup of lactic acid in the body.
 Pregnancy
Consult Your Doctor
It may not be advisable to use during pregnancy. There is limited research on humans. However, studies on animals have shown adverse effects on fetal development. Your doctor will evaluate the benefits and potential risks before prescribing it.
 Breast feeding
Unsafe
It’s probably unsafe to use while nursing. The baby could be adversely affected because the medication can pass into the breastmilk, based on the limited available information. Breastfeeding should be postponed until the mother’s treatment is finished and the drug has been removed from her body. It’s important to seek advice from your doctor.
 Driving
Caution
If your blood sugar is too low or too high, it might impair your driving ability. If you experience these symptoms, refrain from driving.
 Liver
Unsafe
Carbophage SR 500 mg Tablet may not be safe for use in patients with liver disease and should be abstained from. It is advisable to seek advice from your doctor.
 Kidney
Caution
People with kidney issues should be cautious when using it. Adjusting the medication dosage may be necessary. Please consult your doctor. However, Carbophage SR 500mg Tab is not recommended for those with severe kidney disease.
Fact Box
| Chemical Group | Biguanide |
| Addictive | No |
| Medication Class | Biguanide |
| Action Class/Category | Antihyperglycemic Agent (Anti-Diabetic) |
Swift AdviceÂ
- Carbophage SR 500 helps control blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes complications like heart attacks. Compared to other options, it may cause less weight gain and low blood sugar.
- Take it as directed, even if you skip a meal. Carry sugary food or juice for potential low blood sugar (symptoms include sweating and dizziness).
- Call your doctor right away for severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or rapid breathing (signs of lactic acidosis).
- Rare but serious, lactic acidosis can occur, particularly in patients with significant renal dysfunction or other risk factors. Symptoms include malaise, myalgia, respiratory distress, and abdominal pain.
- Long-term use of Metformin SR may decrease vitamin B12. Tell your doctor about fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath (symptoms of anemia).
- Discontinue the medication before undergoing any surgical procedures requiring anesthesia.
- Consult a healthcare provider as the safety of metformin during pregnancy and breastfeeding needs careful consideration.
- Your doctor will monitor your blood sugar and kidney function regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is better, metformin or metformin SR?
A: The choice between metformin (immediate-release) and metformin SR (sustained-release) depends on the patient’s specific needs and tolerance. Metformin SR is designed to release the drug slowly over time, which can lead to better gastrointestinal tolerability and improved compliance due to less frequent dosing. It is particularly beneficial for patients who experience gastrointestinal side effects with immediate-release metformin. Both formulations are effective in managing blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
Q: Does metformin SR reduce fasting blood sugar levels?
A: Yes, metformin SR is effective in reducing fasting blood sugar levels. It helps improve overall glycemic control by decreasing hepatic glucose production, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing intestinal glucose absorption. This results in lower blood sugar levels, particularly fasting blood glucose.
Q: Is metformin SR interchangeable with metformin ER?
A: Yes, metformin SR (sustained-release) and metformin ER (extended-release) are often used interchangeably as they both refer to formulations designed to release metformin slowly over time. Both formulations aim to maintain consistent blood drug levels, reduce dosing frequency, and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. However, specific brand formulations and individual patient responses should be considered, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before making any changes.
Q: Where to buy Carbophage SR 500 mg tab in bulk?
A: Contact us, The Lotus Biotech, to enquire about and get the best quotes for Carbophage SR 500 tablets. We are one of the top reliable Metformin SR tablets exporters and suppliers based in India. Click here to send an inquiry now!
Q: Should Carbophage SR 500 be taken before or after food?
A: Carbophage SR 500 mg should be taken with or after food, typically with the evening meal. Taking it with food helps improve the drug’s absorption and reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and abdominal discomfort.
