Diabex (Metformin Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Diabex Used For?
Diabex is a medication that helps manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
Primary Uses
Diabex is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and children over 10 years old, especially in those who are overweight and when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.
How It Works
Diabex lowers high blood sugar by enhancing the body's response to insulin produced by the pancreas.
Good to know: Diabex is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Diabex
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Diabex.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose for adults is 500 mg one to two times a day, with a maximum of 1000 mg three times a day. For children aged 10 and above, the starting dose is typically 500 mg or 850 mg once daily, with a maximum of 3000 mg per day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Taste disturbance
- Loss of appetite
- Skin reactions such as redness or itching
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Trouble breathing
- Weakness or fatigue
- Unusual muscle pain
- Dizziness
- Shivering
- Feeling extremely cold
- Slow heart rate
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings to consider before taking Diabex.
Who Should Not Take Diabex
Do not take Diabex if you have a known allergy to metformin, type 1 diabetes, severe kidney or liver disease, metabolic acidosis, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver issues, heart conditions, or a history of alcohol dependence.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Diabex is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Insulin is preferred for managing blood sugar during pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Diabex, affecting its efficacy.
- Insulin
- Glitinides
- Sulfonylureas
- Alcohol-containing medicines
- Tetracosactide
- Danazol
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- Warfarin
- Diuretics
- Chlorpromazine
- NSAIDs
- Cimetidine
- Corticosteroids
- Salbutamol
- Topiramate
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while on Diabex.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake can affect diabetes control and may lead to serious side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
While Diabex itself does not impair driving, low blood sugar levels can affect your ability to drive safely.
Storage
Store Diabex in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe tiredness, nausea, vomiting, trouble breathing, and unusual muscle pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take up to two weeks for your blood glucose levels to be properly controlled after starting Diabex.
Yes, it is recommended to take Diabex during or immediately after meals to reduce stomach upset.
No, Diabex is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Diabex without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
You should limit alcohol intake, as it can affect diabetes control and may lead to serious side effects.
Weight gain is not commonly associated with Diabex, but individual responses may vary.
Elderly patients may have an increased risk of side effects and should be monitored closely by their doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.