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Cost information

Metformin (metformin hydrochloride)

Metformin is a biguanide taken as an oral tablet, prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Unlike brand-name medications, metformin is already an inexpensive generic. Here's what that means for your cost.

What is Metformin?

Metformin is the most commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, used alongside diet and exercise to help manage blood sugar. It has been available as a generic for decades and is manufactured by many companies, which keeps its price low.

How it works

Metformin lowers blood sugar mainly by reducing how much glucose the liver releases, improving how the body responds to its own insulin, and modestly reducing glucose absorbed from food.

Typical dosing

  • Typical starting dose: 500 mg once or twice daily with meals, to reduce stomach upset
  • Gradually increased as needed, often up to 2,000 mg per day in divided doses
  • Extended-release versions are available and typically taken once daily with the evening meal

This is general dosing information, not a prescription. Only your provider determines the dose that’s appropriate for you.

Safety information

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal (nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset and a metallic taste), especially when starting or increasing the dose; taking it with food and starting at a low dose helps. Metformin carries a rare but serious boxed warning for lactic acidosis, particularly in people with kidney impairment, and long-term use can lower vitamin B12 levels.

This is not a complete list of risks or side effects. Read the full prescribing information and talk with your provider or pharmacist about whether Metformin is appropriate for you, including your full medical history and current medications.
Common questions

Metformin FAQ

Does metformin have a manufacturer coupon?
No. Metformin is a generic medication made by many manufacturers, not a single branded product, so there is no manufacturer savings card or patient assistance program to check. Its cash price is typically already low. A pharmacy discount card or your insurance formulary is usually the best way to reduce cost further.
Why does metformin upset my stomach?
GI side effects are common, especially early in treatment or after a dose increase. Taking it with food and starting at a low dose that's increased gradually can help. The extended-release version is sometimes better tolerated.
Can metformin help with weight loss?
Metformin is not approved as a weight-loss medication, though modest weight loss is sometimes seen as a side effect. It works differently from GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide, which are approved specifically for weight management.

Cost & eligibility snapshot

Manufacturer savings programNot applicable - generic medication
Patient assistance programNot applicable - generic medication
Typical commercial-insurance copayVaries by plan
Cash price without insuranceVaries by pharmacy

Metformin's cash price is typically low because it is available generically from many manufacturers. Confirm current pricing at your pharmacy or with your insurance. Prices vary by location and are not set or guaranteed by NiceRx.

A different option

Considering a compounded alternative?

If you're also exploring weight-loss treatment options, NiceRx offers compounded GLP-1 medications, a different product from Metformin, prescribed and dosed by a provider licensed in your state.

NiceRx's compounded medications are a different product from Metformin, not a generic, substitute or continuation of it. A clinician determines whether treatment is appropriate for you.

Related

Conditions & medications to explore

Type 2 diabetes - medications & treatmentsA broader view of diabetes treatment options.GLP-1 receptor agonists - the drug classHow GLP-1 medications work, for comparison.Weight loss treatmentsExplore the full range of options.