Metformin 500mg

Generic For: Glucophage

Metformin 500mg (brand name Glucophage) is an oral biguanide medication used alongside diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults and children with type 2 diabetes. It is one of the most commonly prescribed diabetes medications in the United States. Your order ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacy after a licensed provider reviews your prescription.

Select Quantity *

50-day supply · $0.20/tablet

How It Works

  1. Select your medication
  2. Licensed providers review & prescribe
  3. Our licensed U.S. pharmacists fill your prescription
  4. Delivered to you as soon as the next day

Price: $20.00

HSA/FSA Eligible
Get Started

*Doctor visit fee & delivery cost not included in price. Refills at provider discretion.

Pharmacist Support Fast Shipping Licensed U.S. Pharmacy

Buy Metformin 500mg Online

A biguanide medication for type 2 diabetes and blood sugar control

Metformin 500mg Quick Facts

Drug classBiguanide antidiabetic
TreatsType 2 diabetes, high blood sugar
FormTablet
Typical dosingTake 1 tablet by mouth once or twice daily.
Prescription requiredYes — prescription only

What Is Metformin 500mg?

Metformin is an oral medication in the biguanide class, sold under the brand name Glucophage. It helps lower blood sugar by reducing the amount of glucose your liver produces and improving how your body responds to insulin. Metformin is FDA-approved to improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes when used with diet and exercise. It does not typically cause low blood sugar when used alone and is often the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes.

What Does Metformin 500mg Treat?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults
Type 2 diabetes mellitus in children 10 years and older
Improving glycemic control alongside diet and exercise
Use alone or in combination with other diabetes medications
Use in combination with insulin when needed

Metformin 500mg Dosage

Start: 500 mg by mouth twice daily with meals
Titrate: increase by 500 mg weekly as tolerated
Maximum: 2550 mg per day in divided doses

Your prescriber will determine the dose and duration that are right for you. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.

Metformin 500mg Side Effects

Common side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach or indigestion
  • Gas or bloating
  • Stomach pain
  • Metallic taste
  • Decreased appetite
  • Headache

Serious side effects

Stop taking this medication and seek medical attention right away if you experience:

  • Lactic acidosis (muscle pain, trouble breathing, unusual tiredness, feeling cold)
  • Low blood sugar when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Signs of kidney problems (change in urination, swelling)

Warnings & Interactions

Boxed warning: risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication
Do not use with severe kidney impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m²)
Do not use with metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis
Temporarily stop before iodinated contrast imaging procedures as directed
Limit alcohol use; excessive alcohol increases lactic acidosis risk
Use caution with liver disease, heart failure, or dehydration
Tell your provider about all medications, including carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting metformin 500mg.

Talk to U.S.-Based Support

Our licensed pharmacy team in Boca Raton, Florida — real people, no overseas call centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is metformin used for?

Metformin is FDA-approved to improve blood sugar control in adults and children 10 and older with type 2 diabetes. It is used together with diet and exercise, either alone or with other diabetes medications.

Do I need a prescription for metformin?

Yes. Metformin is a prescription-only medication in the United States. A licensed provider must review your health information and issue or verify a valid prescription before your order can be filled.

How does ordering and shipping work?

After you place your order, a licensed provider reviews your prescription and medical information. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped from a licensed U.S. pharmacy directly to your address.

Is Glucophage the same as metformin?

Yes. Glucophage is the brand name for metformin hydrochloride. Generic metformin contains the same active ingredient and is held to the same FDA standards for quality and effectiveness.

What are the most common side effects of metformin?

The most common side effects are digestive, including diarrhea, nausea, gas, and stomach upset. These often improve over time and can be reduced by taking metformin with food.

Can I drink alcohol while taking metformin?

Excessive alcohol should be avoided because it increases the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect. Talk with your provider about what level of alcohol use, if any, is safe for you.

Does metformin cause low blood sugar?

Metformin alone does not usually cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The risk increases when it is combined with insulin or other diabetes medications, so monitor your blood sugar as your provider directs.