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Metformin
Metformin ER 500 mg · Tablet
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 500 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Biguanide [EPC] | EPC | All 47 members |
| Biguanides [CS] | CS | All 47 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 209313-001 | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB1 | ||
| 209313-002 | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 32 | Labeling | Approved | August 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | July 27, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | January 14, 2019 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | March 16, 2018 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20240610). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug LabelingINDICATIONS & USAGE Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug LabelingDOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION There is no fixed dosage regimen for the management of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes with metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP or any other pharmacologic agent. Dosage of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses. The maximum recommended daily dose of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP in adults is 2000 mg. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP should generally be given once daily with the evening meal. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP should be started at a low dose, with gradual dose escalation, both to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and to permit identification of the minimum dose required for adequate glycemic control of the patient. During treatment initiation and dose titration (see Recommended Dosing Schedule), fasting plasma glucose should be used to determine the therapeutic response to metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP and identify the minimum effective dose for the patient. Thereafter, glycosylated hemoglobin should be measured at intervals of approximately 3 months. The therapeutic goal should be to decrease both fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels to normal or near normal by using the lowest effective dose of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP either when used as monotherapy or in combination with sulfonylurea or insulin. Monitoring of blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin will also permit detection of primary failure, i.e., inadequate lowering of blood glucose at the maximum recommended dose of medication, and secondary failure, i.e., loss of an adequate blood glucose lowering response after an initial period of effectiveness. Short-term administration of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP may be sufficient during periods of transient loss of control in patients usually well-controlled on diet alone. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP must be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed. Occasionally, the inactive ingredients of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP will be eliminated in the feces as a soft, hydrated mass. (See Patient Information printed below.) Recommended Dosing Schedule Adults In general, clinically significant responses are not seen at doses below 1500 mg per day. However, a lower recommended starting dose and gradually increased dosage is advised to minimize gastrointestinal symptoms. The usual starting dose of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal. If glycemic control is not achieved on metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP 2000 mg once daily, a trial of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP 1000 mg twice daily should be considered. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY : Clinical Studies .) In a randomized trial, patients currently treated with metformin hydrochloride tablets were switched to metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. Results of this trial suggest that patients receiving metformin hydrochloride tablets treatment may be safely switched to metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets once daily at the same total daily dose, up to 2000 mg once daily. Following a switch from metformin hydrochloride tablets to metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, glycemic control should be closely monitored and dosage adjustments made accordingly (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY : Clinical Studies ). Pediatrics Safety and effectiveness of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP in pediatric patients have not been established. Recommendations for Use in Renal Impairment Assess renal functio …
Contraindications
openFDA Drug LabelingCONTRAINDICATIONS Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP are contraindicated in patients with: 1. Severe Renal Impairment (eGFR below 30mL/min/1.73m2) (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS ). 2.Known hypersensitivity to metformin hydrochloride, USP. 3.Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma. Diabetic ketoacidosis should be treated with insulin.
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS LACTIC ACIDOSIS: Postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension and resistant bradyarrhythmias. The onset of metformin associated lactic acidosis is often subtle, accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Metformin associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate levels(>5 mmol/Liter), anion gap acidosis (without evidenceof ketonuria or ketonemia), an increased lactate/pyruvate ratio; and metformin plasma levels generally >5 mcg/mL (see PRECAUTIONS ). Risk factors for metformin associated lactic acidosis include renal impairment, concamitent use of certain drugs (e.g carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as topiramate), age 65 years old or greater, having a radiological study with contrast, surgery and other procedures, hypoxic states (e.g., acute congestive heart failure), excessive alcohol intake, and hepatic impairment. Steps to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis in these high risk groups are provided (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION , CONTRAINDICATIONS , AND PRECAUTIONS ). If metformin associated lactic acidosis is suspected, immediately discontinue metformin hydrochloride extend release tablets and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended (see PRECAUTIONS ).
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug LabelingADVERSE REACTIONS In A US double blind clinical study of metformin hydrochloride tablets in patients with type 2 diabetes, a total of 141 patients received metformin hydrochloride tablets therapy (up to 2550 mg per day) and 145 patients received placebo. Adverse reactions reported in greater than 5% of the metformin hydrochloride tablets patients, and that were more common in metformin hydrochloride tablets than placebo treated patients, are listed in Table 6. Table 6: Most Common Adverse Reactions (>5 Percent) in a Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study of Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets Monotherapy* Adverse Reaction Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets (n=141) Placebo (n=145) % of Patients Diarrhea 53.2 11.7 Nausea/Vomiting 25.5 8.3 Flatulence 12.1 5.5 Asthenia 9.2 5.5 Indigestion 7.1 4.1 Abdominal Discomfort 6.4 4.8 Headache 5.7 4.8 *Reactions that were more common in metformin hydrochloride tablets than placebo treated patients. Diarrhea led to discontinuation of study medication in 6% of patients treated with metformin hydrochloride tablets. Additionally, the following adverse reactions were reported in ≥1 - ≤5% of metformin hydrochloride tablets patients and myalgia, lightheaded, dyspnea, nail disorder, rash, sweating increased, taste disorder, chest discomfort, chills, flu syndrome, flushing, and palpitation. In worldwide clinical trials over 900 patients with type 2 diabetes have been treated with metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets in placebo and active controlled studies. In placebo controlled trails, 781 patients were administered metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets and 195 patients received placebo. Adverse reactions reported in greater than 5% of the metformin hydrochloride extended release tablets patients, and that were more common in metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets than placebo treated patients are listed in Table 7. Table 7: Most Common Adverse Reactions (>5 Percent) in Placebo-Controlled Studies of Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets* Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets(N=781) Placebo (N=195) Adverse Reactions % of patients Diarrhea 9.6 2.6 Nausea/Vomiting 6.5 1.5 Diarrhea led to discontinuation of study medication in 0.6% of patients treated with metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. Additionally, the following adverse reactions were reported in ≥1 - ≤5% of metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets patients and were more commonly reported with metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets than placebo: abdominal pain, constipation, distention abdomen, dyspepsia/heartburn, flatulence, dizziness, headache, upper respiratory infection, taste disturbance.*Reactions that were more common in metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets than placebo treated patients.
Description
openFDA Drug LabelingDESCRIPTION Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP are oral antihyperglycemic drugs used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Metformin hydrochloride, USP (N,N-dimethyl-monohydrochloride,Imidodicarbonimidic diamide) is not chemically or pharmacologically related to any other classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents. The structural formula is as shown: Metformin hydrochloride, USP is a white or almost white, crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C4H11N5•HCl and a molecular weight of 165.62. Metformin hydrochloride is freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol, practically insoluble in acetone and in Methylene chloride. The pKa of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin hydrochloride is 6.35. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP contain 500 mg or 750 mg of metformin hydrochloride as the active ingredient. Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP 500 mg and 750 mg tablets contain the inactive ingredients hypromellose, magnesium stearate, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone. Dissolution Method: Test 10 System Components and Performance - Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP comprises a dual hydrophilic polymer matrix system. Metformin hydrochloride, USP is combined with a drug release controlling polymer to form an "inner" phase, which is then incorporated as discrete particles into an "external" phase of a second polymer. After administration, fluid from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract enters the tablet, causing the polymers to hydrate and swell. Drug is released slowly from the dosage form by a process of diffusion through the gel matrix that is essentially independent of pH. The hydrated polymer system is not rigid and is expected to be broken up by normal peristalsis in the GI tract. The biologically inert components of the tablet may occasionally remain intact during GI transit and will be eliminated in the feces as a soft, hydrated mass. metformin
Overdosage
openFDA Drug LabelingOVERDOSAGE Overdose of metformin hydrochloride has occurred, including ingestion of amounts greater than 50 grams. Hypoglycemia was reported in approximately 10% of cases, but no causal association with metformin hydrochloride has been established. Lactic acidosis has been reported in approximately 32% of metformin overdose cases (see WARNINGS ). Metformin is dialyzable with a clearance of up to 170 mL/min under good hemodynamic conditions. Therefore, hemodialysis may be useful for removal of accumulated drug from patients in whom metformin overdosage is suspected.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug LabelingHOW SUPPLIED Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg Bottles of 30 NDC 70010-491-03 500 mg Bottles of 90 NDC 70010-491-09 500 mg Bottles of 100 NDC 70010-491-01 500 mg Bottles of 500 NDC 70010-491-05 500 mg Bottles of 1000 NDC 70010-491-10 750 mg Bottles of 30 NDC 70010-492-03 750 mg Bottles of 90 NDC 70010-492-09 750 mg Bottles of 100 NDC 70010-492-01 750 mg Bottles of 500 NDC 70010-492-05 750 mg Bottles of 1000 NDC 70010-492-10 Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg tablets are white to off-white uncoated, modified capsule shaped tablets debossed with “G7” on one side and plain on the other side. Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 750 mg tablets are white to off-white uncoated, modified capsule shaped tablets debossed with “G8” on one side and plain on the other side. Storage Store at 20° to 25° C (68° to 77° F); excursions permitted within 15° to 30° C (59° to 86° F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Dispense in light-resistant containers. Manufactured by: Granules India Limited Hyderabad-500 081, India Manufactured for: Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc. Chantilly, VA 20151. Revision date: March 2020
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50090-6515-0 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | 60 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (50090-6515-0) | June 2, 2023 |
| 50090-6515-1 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | 30 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (50090-6515-1) | June 2, 2023 |
| 50090-6515-2 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (50090-6515-2) | June 2, 2023 |
| 50090-6515-3 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | 180 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (50090-6515-3) | June 2, 2023 |
| 50090-6515-4 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | 100 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (50090-6515-4) | June 2, 2023 |
| 71610-613-30 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 30 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-30) | May 2, 2024 |
| 71610-613-53 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 60 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-53) | June 4, 2024 |
| 71610-613-60 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-60) | November 2, 2021 |
| 71610-613-70 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 120 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-70) | March 1, 2024 |
| 71610-613-80 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 180 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-80) | November 2, 2021 |
| 71610-613-94 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | 360 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (71610-613-94) | November 2, 2021 |
| 50090-6515 | 50090-6515 | A-S Medication Solutions | — | July 31, 2018 |
| 71610-613 | 71610-613 | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | — | July 31, 2018 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.