Based on BPOM data, the metformin versions recalled in some countries are not distributed in Indonesia.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has stressed no contaminated metformin formulations are being sold in Indonesia and urged citizens to not worry over reports of the drug being recalled in other countries.

Metformin is widely prescribed to patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Health authorities in some countries, including Singapore's Health Sciences Authority and the US Food and Drug Administration, have recalled metformin formulations after testing revealed they contained N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) above acceptable limits.

"Based on BPOM data, the metformin versions recalled in some countries are not distributed in Indonesia," BPOM head Penny K Lukito said here on Thursday.

The contaminated drugs are very specific and the recall applies only to certain production codes, she added.

"Metformin versions marketed in Indonesia have met the required limit of NDMA acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 96 nanograms. (NDMA) intake above the acceptable level over the long term could cause cancer," she informed.

Lukito urged people to remain calm, saying: "Patients who take metformin shouldn't stop taking their medication without first talking to their doctors."

NDMA is known to cause cancer in animals and has been classified as a possible human carcinogen.

Concerns about high levels of NDMA, which can form during some industrial processes, have been rising since it was detected in blood-pressure medications and drugs containing ranitidine, the active ingredient in Sanofi's heartburn medication Zantac.

Metformin has been widely used since 1957 as a medication for Type 2 diabetes, particularly for people who are overweight and have uncontrolled glucose levels.

In Indonesia, metformin has become an essential drug for single therapy as well as combined therapy with other medications, such as insulin. (INE)

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Translator: Anom Prihantoro, Sri Haryati
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