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Diabetes

Metformin

Metformin is a covered generic medication on Tab's $0 list. Here's what it's used for, typical dosing, and side effects, sourced from FDA-approved drug labeling.

$0 with active Tab membership Oral

What it's used for

This medication is used alongside diet and exercise to help improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Source: U.S. FDA-approved prescribing information (openFDA).

Typical dosing

Tablets must be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing, with a starting dose of 500 mg once daily with the evening meal that can be increased up to 2,000 mg daily.

Dosing shown here is the general FDA-labeled range. Your prescribing clinician determines the exact dose, form, and schedule for you — this is not a substitute for medical advice.

Boxed warning / key safety info

This medication can cause a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, which can be fatal.

Common side effects

Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, gas, heartburn, dizziness, and headache.

Covered strengths on the Tab $0 list

Metformin 1000mg TabletMetformin 500mg TabletMetformin 850mg TabletMetformin ER 500mg TabletMetformin ER 750mg Tablet

Covered at $0 with an active Tab membership when filled at a participating pharmacy nationwide or through mail order. A licensed clinician must prescribe the medication.

Related medications

AcarboseGlimepirideGlipizideGlyburideGlyburide/MetforminRepaglinide

Other diabetes medications covered at $0 with an active Tab membership.

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Tab is a membership and prescription-discount program—not insurance, and not a substitute for it. $0 pricing applies to medications on the current covered generic list with active membership, at participating pharmacy locations nationwide or through mail order, and is subject to change. Mail-order home delivery is preferred for recurring prescriptions; activation, availability, and delivery timing apply. This page is for general reference, drawn from FDA-approved drug labeling, and is not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician can determine if a medication is right for you.