metmin-a tablet - Metformin (500mg) + Alpha Lipoic Acid (200mg) medicine

Metmin-A Tablet: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Jenburkt Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 25, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Metformin: Well-established. Alpha Lipoic Acid: Moderate for diabetic neuropathy. Combination: Limited.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
  • Severe muscle pain or cramps
  • Extreme tiredness or weakness
  • Stomach pain with nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe hypoglycemia symptoms (shakiness, sweating, confusion)

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is metmin-a tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Metformin and Alpha Lipoic Acid used to treat type 2 diabetes and associated nerve pain. It helps lower blood sugar and reduce oxidative stress. Take it with meals as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Generic Name: Metformin (500mg) + Alpha Lipoic Acid (200mg)
  • Manufacturer: Jenburkt Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 metmin-a tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेटफॉर्मिन और अल्फा लिपोइक एसिड का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग टाइप 2 डायबिटीज और डायबिटिक न्यूरोपैथी (नसों में झनझनाहट, जलन या सुन्नपन) के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह ब्लड शुगर को नियंत्रित करने में मदद करती है और शरीर में ऑक्सीडेटिव तनाव को कम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार भोजन के साथ लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द, भूख में कमी और मुंह में धातु जैसा स्वाद शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के और अस्थायी होते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन लैक्टिक एसिडोसिस, गंभीर हाइपोग्लाइसीमिया और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन के साथ लें ताकि पेट की समस्या कम हो। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे लैक्टिक एसिडोसिस और लो ब्लड शुगर का खतरा बढ़ सकता है। अगर आपको किडनी या लिवर की समस्या है, या आप सर्जरी या कंट्रास्ट टेस्ट कराने वाले हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। ब्लड शुगर की नियमित जांच करें। दवा बंद करने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 metmin-a tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus","description":"Helps lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing liver glucose production.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy","description":"Alpha Lipoic Acid component may help reduce symptoms like tingling, burning, and numbness in the feet and hands.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Oxidative Stress in Diabetes","description":"Alpha Lipoic Acid acts as an antioxidant, potentially reducing oxidative damage associated with diabetes.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Weight Management","description":"Metformin is sometimes prescribed off-label to help with weight loss in individuals with insulin resistance.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)","description":"Metformin may be used off-label to improve insulin sensitivity and menstrual regularity in PCOS.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Primary treatment for: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Also treats: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Metformin (500mg) + Alpha Lipoic Acid (200mg)
Brand Namemetmin-a tablet
ManufacturerJenburkt Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI DIABETIC
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineMetformin is recommended as a first-line oral antidiabetic agent by the World Health Organization for the management of type 2 diabetes. Alpha Lipoic Acid is not specifically included in WHO guidelines for diabetes management.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends metformin as a first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes. Alpha Lipoic Acid may be considered as an adjunct for diabetic neuropathy, but evidence is limited.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with meals to minimize stomach upset and improve tolerance.
2
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and keep a log to share with your doctor.
3
Avoid alcohol completely while on this medicine to prevent lactic acidosis.
4
Inform your doctor if you experience persistent tingling or numbness, as dose adjustment may be needed.
5
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.
6
Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine for best results.
7
Report any unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or extreme fatigue immediately.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
High blood sugar levels
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Tingling or numbness in feet
Alpha Lipoic Acid component may help with neuropathic symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMetformin is slowly and incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability ranging from 50% to 60%. Alpha Lipoic Acid is rapidly absorbed from the stomach and small intestine. Food may slightly delay absorption of metformin but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionMetformin is widely distributed in body tissues, with negligible binding to plasma proteins. Alpha Lipoic Acid is distributed to various tissues, including nerve tissue, and can cross the blood-brain barrier to some extent.
Protein BindingMetformin is negligibly bound to plasma proteins. Alpha Lipoic Acid binding to plasma proteins is not well established.
MetabolismMetformin is not metabolized by the liver and is excreted unchanged in urine. Alpha Lipoic Acid undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver, primarily via beta-oxidation and reduction to dihydrolipoic acid.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of metformin is approximately 6.2 hours from plasma and about 17.6 hours from whole blood. The half-life of Alpha Lipoic Acid is approximately 30 minutes.
ExcretionMetformin is excreted unchanged in the urine via active tubular secretion. Alpha Lipoic Acid and its metabolites are excreted in urine and feces.
BioavailabilityMetformin bioavailability is 50-60% under fasting conditions. Alpha Lipoic Acid bioavailability is approximately 30% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionMetformin begins to lower blood glucose within days, but full effect may take 1-2 weeks. Alpha Lipoic Acid's antioxidant effects may take several weeks to manifest.
Peak Plasma TimeMetformin reaches peak plasma concentration in 2-3 hours. Alpha Lipoic Acid peaks in about 0.5-1 hour.
Duration of ActionMetformin's glucose-lowering effect lasts for about 24 hours, allowing once or twice daily dosing. Alpha Lipoic Acid's effect duration is not well established but is thought to be short-lived.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, and it improves peripheral insulin sensitivity by increasing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and fat. Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, regenerates other antioxidants like vitamin C and E, and may improve nerve conduction by reducing oxidative stress in diabetic neuropathy.

Mechanism Steps

1
Metformin uptake into hepatocytes: Metformin enters liver cells via organic cation transporters and accumulates in mitochondria.
2
Inhibition of mitochondrial complex I: This reduces ATP production and increases AMP levels, leading to AMPK activation.
3
Reduced hepatic glucose output: AMPK activation suppresses gluconeogenic enzymes, decreasing glucose release into the blood.
4
Improved insulin sensitivity: Metformin enhances insulin-mediated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue.
5
Alpha Lipoic Acid antioxidant action: Alpha Lipoic Acid neutralizes reactive oxygen species and regenerates endogenous antioxidants.
6
Neuroprotective effect: By reducing oxidative stress, Alpha Lipoic Acid may improve nerve function and reduce neuropathic pain.

💡 How to Take metmin-a tablet

Strength: Metformin 500 mg + Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg immediate-release tablet.

1Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
2Take it with meals to reduce stomach upset.
3Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
4Follow your doctor's prescribed dose and schedule.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally once or twice daily with meals, or as directed by your physician. The dose may be adjusted based on blood glucose levels and renal function. The maximum recommended dose is generally 2000 mg of metformin per day. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may require lower doses due to reduced renal function. Renal function should be monitored regularly, and the dose should be adjusted accordingly. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with mild renal impairment (eGFR 45-59 mL/min), no dose adjustment is usually needed, but monitor renal function closely. In moderate renal impairment (eGFR 30-44 mL/min), the dose should be reduced, and initiation is not recommended. This medicine is contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min).
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. This medicine is contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment due to increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose of metformin is 2000 mg, and alpha lipoic acid is 600 mg. However, the maximum dose of this specific combination should not exceed the prescribed limit. Follow your doctor's advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With meals
Take with food
Reduces stomach upset and improves tolerance.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
High-fiber foods
Can take together
May slightly delay absorption but improves gastrointestinal tolerance.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of metmin-a tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-20%))
Take with food. If persists, consult doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (10-20%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Stomach pain (Common (5-10%))
Take with meals. Report if severe.
Metallic taste (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. Chew sugar-free gum if bothersome.
Headache (Uncommon (1-5%))
Rest and hydrate. Consult if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Lactic acidosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rapid breathing, muscle pain, extreme tiredness, or stomach discomfort.
Severe hypoglycemia (Rare (<0.1%))
If you have symptoms like shakiness, sweating, confusion, or rapid heartbeat, eat or drink something sugary and seek medical help.
Allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and seek emergency care if you develop rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Vitamin B12 deficiency
Your doctor may monitor B12 levels periodically. Report symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or tingling in hands and feet.
Hepatitis
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Iodinated contrast media Major
Alcohol Major
Cimetidine Moderate
Furosemide Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
ACE inhibitors Moderate
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors Minor
Thyroid hormones Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Iodinated contrast media
  • Alcohol
  • Cationic drugs (e.g., cimetidine, ranitidine)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
  • Corticosteroids
  • ACE inhibitors

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. It increases the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication, and can also cause dangerously low blood sugar levels. If you consume alcohol, do so only in moderation and with food, and inform your doctor.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe renal impairment (eGFR

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious metabolic complication that can occur due to metformin accumulation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rapid breathing, muscle pain, extreme tiredness, or stomach discomfort.","Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking this medicine.","Discontinue before surgery or imaging procedures with contrast dyes as advised by your doctor.","Monitor blood glucose regularly, especially when starting or changing doses.","Alpha Lipoic Acid may lower blood sugar; monitor for hypoglycemia when used with other antidiabetic agents.","Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Metformin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Alpha Lipoic Acid safety during lactation is not established. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause lactic acidosis, hypoglycemia, or gastrointestinal symptoms. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes supportive care, monitoring of vital signs and blood glucose, and hemodialysis if severe metformin toxicity occurs.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water. Always take it with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Avoid alcohol consumption as it increases the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you are scheduled for surgery or imaging tests with contrast dyes. Monitor your blood sugar regularly as advised. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of renal impairment and lactic acidosis. Renal function should be monitored regularly, and the dose should be adjusted accordingly. Elderly patients may also be more susceptible to hypoglycemia. Regular follow-up and monitoring are essential.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine. Metformin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but Alpha Lipoic Acid safety is not well established. Your doctor may adjust your treatment plan to ensure optimal blood sugar control for a healthy pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine should be temporarily discontinued before surgery and restarted only after your doctor confirms that your renal function is normal and you are eating and drinking normally. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may affect blood sugar levels, and dental procedures can cause stress that alters glucose control. Your dentist may advise monitoring blood sugar before and after the procedure.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.
🥗
Monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor.
😴
Follow a diabetic-friendly diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
💧
Stay physically active with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
🧘
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
🌞
Get regular eye, foot, and kidney check-ups.
🚭
Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Exercise is beneficial for diabetes management, but be cautious of hypoglycemia if you are also taking insulin or other antidiabetic drugs. Monitor your blood sugar before and after exercise, and carry a fast-acting carbohydrate source. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous exercise in extreme heat.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fiber-rich foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.
Choose lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and tofu.
Limit intake of refined carbohydrates and sugary foods.
Include healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
Eat small, frequent meals to help control blood sugar levels.
Stay well hydrated with water and unsweetened beverages.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or low blood sugar in some people, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving if you feel dizzy or shaky. Take regular breaks if your work involves prolonged standing or physical activity. Inform your employer about your condition and medication in case of emergencies.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects like lactic acidosis symptoms, allergic reactions, or persistent hypoglycemia, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to a different medication based on your condition.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause anemia and nerve damage. Regular monitoring of B12 levels is advised. Metformin may also cause gastrointestinal side effects that persist in some patients. Alpha Lipoic Acid is generally well-tolerated long-term. Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential to monitor blood sugar control, renal function, and any adverse effects.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Lifestyle modifications

Diet and exercise are cornerstone therapies for type 2 diabetes and can complement medicine.

Evidence: Well-established
Other antidiabetic medications

Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe other oral agents or insulin.

Evidence: Well-established
Physical therapy for neuropathy

Can help manage symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions with this medicine. However, people with diabetes are at higher risk of infections, so ensure you are up to date with recommended vaccines such as influenza, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and tingling in feet
He was prescribed this medicine by his diabetologist. After taking it regularly with meals for 3 months, his blood sugar levels improved, and the tingling in his feet reduced significantly. He also lost 2 kg, which his doctor said was a beneficial effect of metformin.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use with meals and regular follow-up can lead to better blood sugar control and relief from neuropathic symptoms.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes and obesity
She started this medicine along with lifestyle changes. Initially, she experienced mild nausea and diarrhea, but these subsided after 2 weeks. Her HbA1c dropped from 8.5% to 7.2% in 6 months. She emphasizes the importance of not skipping doses and staying active.
💡 Lesson: Gastrointestinal side effects are common initially but often improve. Adherence to medication and lifestyle changes is key to success.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Metformin starts lowering blood sugar within days, but full effect may take 1-2 weeks. Alpha Lipoic Acid's effects on nerve symptoms may take several weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I have kidney disease?

A: It depends on the severity. This medicine is contraindicated in severe renal impairment. Consult your doctor for dose adjustment.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember if it's not too close to your next dose. Otherwise, skip it and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for metmin-a tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Metmin-A can cure diabetes.
    Fact: This medicine helps manage blood sugar levels but does not cure diabetes. Lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring are essential.
  • Myth: Metmin-A is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with severe kidney or liver disease, or those with metabolic acidosis.
  • Myth: You can stop taking Metmin-A once your sugar is controlled.
    Fact: Diabetes is a chronic condition. Stopping medication without medical advice can lead to serious complications.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Metformin 500 mg + Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg tablet (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Metmin-A Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Metformin alone","composition":"Metformin 500 mg","uses":"Type 2 diabetes","key_difference":"Does not contain Alpha Lipoic Acid; no antioxidant or neuroprotective effect."},{"medicine":"Alpha Lipoic Acid alone","composition":"Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg","uses":"Diabetic neuropathy, antioxidant","key_difference":"Does not lower blood sugar; used mainly for nerve symptoms."},{"medicine":"Metformin + Glimepiride","composition":"Metformin 500 mg + Glimepiride 1 mg","uses":"Type 2 diabetes","key_difference":"Contains a sulfonylurea that increases insulin secretion; higher risk of hypoglycemia."}]

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