Pioglitazone + Metformin Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Pioglitazone-Metformin Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Pioglitazone-Metformin HCl

Drug Class

  • Antidiabetic Combination

Chemical Formula

C19H20N2O3S·C4H12ClN5

Molecular Weight

505.06 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Pioglitazone: Increases insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues
  • Metformin: Reduces glucose production in the liver and improves glucose uptake in peripheral tissues

Indications

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 15 mg-850 mg to 45 mg-1000 mg once or twice daily with meals

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not established

Geriatric Dosage

  • Use with caution due to the risk of lactic acidosis

Side Effects

  • Hypoglycemia
  • Weight gain
  • Edema
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

Contraindications

  • Severe renal impairment, metabolic acidosis, heart failure

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended

Drug Interactions

  • Insulin secretagogues, rifampin, corticosteroids

Overdose Symptoms

  • Lactic acidosis, hypoglycemia

Antidote for Overdose

  • Discontinue medication and provide supportive care

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Metformin distributes into erythrocytes and is not bound to plasma proteins
  • Metabolism: Metformin is not metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Monitor renal function
  • Monitor for signs of heart failure

Warnings

  • Risk of lactic acidosis
  • Not recommended in patients with hepatic impairment

Others

  • May cause vitamin B12 deficiency over time