Does metformin come in liquid form
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Liquid Formulations of Metformin: Availability and Development
Introduction to Metformin Liquid Formulations
Metformin, a widely used antihyperglycemic agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, is traditionally available in tablet form. However, for certain patient populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), liquid formulations can offer significant advantages. This article explores the availability and development of liquid forms of metformin, highlighting key research findings.
Extemporaneous Liquid Formulations for Pediatric Use
Research has shown that metformin can be effectively formulated into a liquid extemporaneous preparation from commercial tablets. A study involving pediatric patients demonstrated that the pharmacokinetics of the liquid formulation were comparable to those of the tablet form, with similar maximum concentration (Cmax), time to reach maximum concentration (Tmax), and half-life values. This suggests that liquid formulations can provide a viable alternative for precise dose adjustments and ease of administration in children.
Market Availability of Liquid Metformin
There are a few liquid oral formulations of metformin available in the market, typically containing 500 mg per 5 mL dose. These formulations are particularly beneficial for geriatric patients who may have difficulty swallowing bulky tablets. However, simple non-viscous liquid formulations can pose risks such as aspiration and coughing, which can be fatal for some dysphagic patients.
Innovative Liquid Dosage Forms: Oral Jelly and In Situ Gel
To address the challenges associated with liquid formulations, researchers have developed alternative dosage forms such as oral jelly and in situ gels. Oral jelly formulations of metformin hydrochloride have been optimized to be palatable and easy to swallow, with stability maintained in unit dose sachets for up to six months. This form is particularly suitable for geriatric patients, offering a convenient and stable alternative to traditional tablets.
Similarly, a liquid oral floating in situ gel of metformin hydrochloride has been developed to increase gastric residence time and sustain drug release. This formulation gels instantaneously in the stomach, providing a sustained release of the drug over 12 hours, and has shown significant efficacy in reducing blood glucose levels in preclinical studies. This innovative approach could be an interesting alternative for patients who find it difficult to swallow tablets.
Extemporaneous Formulations for Pediatric Endocrinology
In response to the lack of pediatric formulations, researchers have developed liquid formulations of metformin by dissolving generic tablets in water sweetened with sucralose. These formulations have been shown to be stable for up to 30 days under various storage conditions and are well-tolerated with no cytotoxicity observed in preliminary studies. This method provides a low-cost and effective solution for pediatric patients requiring metformin therapy.
Conclusion
Liquid formulations of metformin, including extemporaneous preparations, oral jellies, and in situ gels, offer significant benefits for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets. These formulations maintain the pharmacokinetic properties of the tablet form and provide convenient, stable, and effective alternatives for pediatric and geriatric patients. As research continues, these innovative dosage forms are likely to become more widely available, improving patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
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