Diaformin (AF) (Metformin Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Diaformin (AF) Used For?
Diaformin (AF) is a medication that helps manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
Primary Uses
Diaformin is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and children over 10 years of age, especially in those who are overweight.
How It Works
Metformin helps lower high blood sugar by improving the body's response to insulin.
Good to know: Diaformin is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Diaformin (AF)
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Diaformin for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The typical starting dose for adults is 500 mg taken once or twice daily, with a maximum of 1000 mg three times a day. For children aged 10 and older, the starting dose is usually 500 mg or 850 mg once daily, with a maximum of 2 g 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 and continue with your schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double 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
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- trouble breathing
- feeling weak or tired
- unusual muscle pain
- sleepiness
- dizziness
- shivering
- slow heart rate
Important Warnings
There are specific situations and conditions where Diaformin should not be taken.
Who Should Not Take Diaformin (AF)
Do not take Diaformin if you are allergic to metformin or any of its components, have type 1 diabetes, severe kidney disease, or certain heart and breathing issues.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart failure, kidney problems, or if you consume alcohol excessively.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Diaformin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Insulin is preferred for managing blood sugar in pregnant women.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may require special consideration when taking Diaformin.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Diaformin, affecting its efficacy.
- other diabetes medications
- medications containing alcohol
- tetracosactrin
- danazol
- beta-blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- warfarin
- diuretics
- chlorpromazine
- NSAIDs
- cimetidine
- corticosteroids
- asthma medications
- topiramate
- rifampicin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while on Diaformin.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol can disrupt diabetes control and lead to serious side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Low blood sugar can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Be vigilant about your blood glucose levels.
Storage
Store Diaformin in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include extreme tiredness, nausea, vomiting, and unusual muscle pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can take up to two weeks for your blood glucose levels to stabilize after starting Diaformin.
Yes, it is recommended to take Diaformin during or immediately after meals to reduce stomach upset.
No, Diaformin is not considered to be addictive.
Do not stop taking Diaformin without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
You should limit alcohol intake, as it can affect your diabetes control and lead to serious side effects.
Diaformin is not associated with weight gain; in fact, it may help with weight management in some patients.
Elderly patients may need special consideration and monitoring while taking Diaformin.
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.