Glucophage
Generic Metformin · tablet · Rx required · Type 2 diabetes blood-sugar control.
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The lowest verified cash price for Glucophage 500 mg is $3.96 at Blink Health, based on 8 verified pharmacy prices checked August 27, 2026.
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How much does Glucophage cost without insurance?
The lowest verified cash price for Glucophage 500 mg is $3.96 at Blink Health, based on 8 verified pharmacy prices checked August 27, 2026. Across 8 verified pharmacy prices, cash costs range from $3.96 to $54.99. These are cash prices, no insurance or signup is required, and for many generics the cash price beats a typical insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility; confirm the final price at the counter.
Glucophage is commonly dispensed as tablet in 500mg, 850mg, 1000mg strengths. Price varies by strength, quantity, and pharmacy, set your strength and quantity above to see the cash price for your exact fill.
About Glucophage
Glucophage is a brand of Metformin, a diabetes medication supplied as tablet in a 500 mg strength. It is commonly used for type 2 diabetes blood-sugar control.
An FDA-approved generic (Metformin) is available and typically costs less than the brand, compare both cash prices in the results above before you fill.
Ways to save on Glucophage
Choosing the generic (Metformin) instead of the brand can lower your cost, on average about $85.00 per fill (96% off the brand price) in our catalog, though the exact price varies by pharmacy, location, quantity, and eligibility. Compare the live cash and discount prices above, and ask about a 90-day supply if you take it long-term.
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Clinical information
Typical dosing
Max dose differs by formulation, do not assume one number: • Immediate-release (IR), e.g. Glucophage: max 2550 mg/day, given in divided doses (typically 2-3x/day with meals). Usual starting dose 500 mg twice daily, titrated slowly to reduce GI side effects. • Extended-release (XR/ER), e.g. Glucophage XR, Fortamet, Glumetza: max is generally 2000 mg/day (Glucophage XR label); check the specific product's FDA label, as some ER formulations (e.g. Fortamet) are approved up to 2500 mg/day. Taken once daily, usually with the evening meal.
Monitoring
Kidney function (eGFR) before starting and at least annually (more often if at risk). Metformin is contraindicated at eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73m² due to lactic-acidosis risk; dose should be reassessed and often reduced at eGFR 30-45. Periodic vitamin B12 levels with long-term use.
Side effects
Common: nausea, diarrhea, gas, metallic taste, usually improves in 1-2 weeks. Rare but serious: lactic acidosis, more likely with kidney impairment, dehydration, or heavy alcohol use. Long-term use can lower vitamin B12, periodic B12 monitoring is recommended, especially with anemia or neuropathy symptoms.
Interactions to know
Tell your doctor before any imaging study with IV contrast, metformin may need to be held around the procedure. Alcohol increases lactic acidosis risk.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
Generally considered safe in pregnancy; discuss with your obstetrician.
Clinical content reviewed by the BetterBuyRx clinical team, on 2026-07-07. Read the full wiki entry and sources →
Frequently asked questions
How much does Glucophage cost without insurance?
The lowest verified cash price for Glucophage 500 mg is $3.96 at Blink Health, based on 8 verified pharmacy prices checked August 27, 2026. These are cash prices, no insurance or signup needed, and refresh at least every 72 hours.
Is generic Metformin the same as Glucophage?
Yes. The FDA requires generics to contain the same active ingredient at the same strength as the brand. Inactive ingredients (binders, dyes) may differ.
How much can I save by choosing the generic?
On average $85.00 per fill (96% off the brand price). Savings vary by pharmacy, see live prices above.
Do I need insurance to get this price?
No. The prices shown on BetterBuyRx are cash prices. Often these beat insurance copays for generics.
How often is this price updated?
At minimum every 72 hours. Many sources refresh every few hours.
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Important safety information
Information for general comparison only. Not medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist.