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Page: Formulations
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Metformin IR (immediate release) is available in 500 mg, 850 mg, and 1000 mg tablets.
Metformin SR (slow release) or XR (extended release) was introduced in 2004, in 500 mg and 750 mg strengths, mainly to counteract the most common side effects, as well as increase patient compliance (e.g. taking one tablet once a day instead of one tablet multiple times per day). No difference in glycemic control exists between the two preparations.
Combinations
Metformin is often prescribed to type 2 diabetes patients in combination with rosiglitazone. This drug actively reduces insulin resistance, complementing the action of the metformin. In 2002, the two drugs were combined into a single product, Avandamet, marketed by GlaxoSmithKline. In 2005, all current stock of Avandamet was seized by the FDA and removed from the market, after inspections showed the factory where it was produced was violating Good Manufacturing Practices. The drug pair continued to be prescribed separately in the absence of Avandamet, which was available again by the end of that year.
In the United States, metformin is also available in combination with pioglitazone (trade name Actoplus Met) and the sulfonylureas glipizide (trade name Metaglip) and glibenclamide (trade name Glucovance).
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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