Okamet (Metformin 500mg)

Okamet 500 is a prescription oral anti-diabetic medication containing 500 mg of metformin hydrochloride, a biguanide manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children over 10 years by improving blood sugar control when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, reducing intestinal glucose absorption, and enhancing insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat tissues, thereby lowering blood glucose levels without stimulating insulin secretion. Okamet 500 is typically taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, offering a cost-effective option for diabetes management. It may be used alone or with other anti-diabetic drugs or insulin, depending on the patient’s needs. Medical supervision is essential due to potential side effects, particularly the rare risk of lactic acidosis, and it is not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Uses

• Manages type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children over 10 years.
• Used alone or with other oral anti-diabetics, insulin, or lifestyle changes.
• May be prescribed off-label for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Helps control blood sugar to prevent complications like neuropathy or retinopathy.

Benefits

• Lowers blood glucose levels, improving glycemic control (HbA1c reduction ~1–2%).
• Reduces risk of diabetes-related complications (e.g., heart disease, kidney damage).
• Supports weight stability or modest weight loss, unlike some diabetes drugs.
• Enhances insulin sensitivity without causing hypoglycemia when used alone.
• Cost-effective, widely available, and WHO Essential Medicine.
• May improve ovulation and menstrual regularity in PCOS (off-label).

Okamet 500 Side Effects

• Common: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste.
• Less common: vomiting, bloating, flatulence, weakness.
• Rare: lactic acidosis (severe fatigue, muscle pain, breathing issues), vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Serious: signs of lactic acidosis or allergic reactions (rash, swelling); seek immediate medical help.
• Gastrointestinal side effects often subside; consult a doctor if persistent.

Safety Advice

• Avoid if allergic to metformin or with severe kidney/liver disease or acute heart failure.
• Not for type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or excessive alcohol use.
• Consult a doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or before surgery (may need to stop).
• Take with meals to reduce stomach upset; start with low dose to minimize side effects.
• Monitor kidney function and vitamin B12 levels during long-term use.
• Store at 20–25°C, away from moisture, heat, and children; discard if expired.