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Glucophage
Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) prescription available online
If you are suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus, Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Glucophage from a board-certified doctor online.*
Book an appointment
Control high blood sugar
Available as an oral tablet or oral solution
Tailored type 2 diabetes treatment
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride)
Glucophage, an oral anti-hyperglycemic drug, works by restoring the body's proper response to the insulin you naturally produce. It also decreases the amount of sugar that your liver produces and that your stomach and intestines absorb.
Glucophage is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glucophage is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including metformin hydrochloride.
Glucophage may be prescribed as an oral tablet or oral solution. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Glucophage, be sure to complete the full course of the oral anti-hyperglycemic unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the anti-hyperglycemic may not fully treat your type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Glucophage uses
There is 1 FDA-approved use for Glucophage, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your doctor may prescribe Glucophage for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Glucophage is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adult and pediatric patients. Glucophage is used together with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.
Glucophage is not recommended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Glucophage side effects
The side effects associated with taking Glucophage are typically mild. Most Glucophage side effects are associated with nausea.
Glucophage has some common side effects. They may include:
Low blood sugar levels
Nausea or upset stomach
Diarrhea
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Stomach pain or vomiting
Lightheadedness
Unusual muscle pain
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.
In very rare cases, Glucophage can lead to an increased risk of lactic acidosis. If you have decreased kidney function or other risk factors for lactic acidosis, your doctor will monitor you regularly to make sure Glucophage is safe for you.
How to take Glucophage (metformin hydrochloride)
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Glucophage prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Glucophage can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription.
For patients with normal renal function, the initial starting dose for immediate-release Glucophage is typically 500 mg orally twice daily or 850 orally once daily, while the starting dose for Glucophage XR (extended-release) ranges from 500 to 1000 mg orally once daily.
What to avoid while taking Glucophage
Glucophage has 355 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Possible drug interactions with Glucophage include:
Crestor (rosuvastatin)
Cymbalta (duloxetine)
Lasix (furosemide)
Norvasc (amlodipine)
Prilosec (omeprazole)
Excessive alcohol intake should be avoided when taking metformin therapy. Excessive alcohol intake while taking metformin can increase your risk of lactic acidosis. Alcohol may also affect your blood glucose levels.
Medication alternatives to Glucophage
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another oral anti-hyperglycemic drug or blood glucose control medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Glucophage prescription FAQs
How much does Glucophage cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Glucophage costs around $34 for thirty 500 mg tablets. Fortunately, generic brands, such as metformin, can offer an affordable alternative. Price varies with insurance coverage. Our prescription discount card helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.
How can I refill my Glucophage prescription?
Glucophage is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
Who should not take Glucophage?
Avoid taking metformin if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Severe kidney disease or impaired kidney function
Metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis
Liver disease or decreased liver function
Heart disease or congestive heart failure
Tell your doctor if you have a severe infection, excessive alcohol intake, renal impairment, or if you're 65 or older, as these risk factors can increase your risk of lactic acidosis.What time of day should Glucophage be taken?
Take Glucophage with a meal unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Glucophage XR should be taken once daily following your evening meal.
Why should Glucophage be taken at night?
Taking metformin at night can help improve glycemic control by reducing morning hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
What happens if I miss a dose of Glucophage?
If you miss a dose of Glucophage, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Glucophage?
If you've taken too much Glucophage, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center. An overdose of Glucophage can cause a medical emergency, such as severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or lactic acidosis.
3 simple steps to request your Glucophage prescription today
Step 1
Book a Glucophage prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Glucophage prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Glucophage prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Glucophage prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Glucophage prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Glucophage prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration Glucophage prescription label. Accessed on September 18, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/020357s037s039,021202s021s023lbl.pdf
Kaiser Permanente. Metformin 625 mg tablet. Accessed on September 18, 2022. https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/washington/health-wellness/drug-encyclopedia/drug.metformin-625-mg-tablet.611122
Mayo Clinic. Metformin (Oral Route). Accessed on September 18, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metformin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067074?p=1