Metformin is useful only if you know how to use it. Remember this optimal blood sugar-lowering dose

Outpatient story - Mr. Wang, a senior diabetic patient, is currently taking metformin hydrochloride tablets (Glucovalve). The doctor told him to take it three times a day, 0.5g each time. Mr. Wang asked how to take this drug to achieve the best blood sugar-lowering effect? ​​What is the maximum dosage?

Metformin, as a hypoglycemic drug, has a history of more than 60 years in my country. It has a "cornerstone" status in the treatment of diabetes and is recommended by major guidelines as the first-line choice and full-course medication for type 2 diabetes. It is also regarded as a "magic drug" by everyone. Although it is a "magic drug", it cannot be used casually. The dosage and usage of the drug should be formulated according to the actual situation of the patient.

The dosage principle of metformin is to start with a small dose and then gradually increase the dose according to the patient's condition. The hypoglycemic effect of metformin is positively correlated with the dose (500-2000mg/d). When used for hypoglycemic purposes, the minimum effective dose is 500mg/time, twice a day, or 0.85g/time, once a day, taken with meals. It can be increased by 0.5g per week, or 0.85g every two weeks, gradually increasing to 2 grams, and taken in divided doses. The maximum recommended dose for adults is 2550mg/d, and the optimal effective dose is 2000mg/d.

The guidelines do not limit the specific age of use of metformin. Elderly patients can use metformin reasonably, but renal function needs to be monitored. For patients over 65 years old, it is recommended to monitor renal function every 3-6 months.

Good medicines need to be used correctly and in a standardized manner to achieve their maximum efficacy, and this is the case with metformin. During use, you must strictly follow the principles of use and must not adjust the medication at will.