Metformin Online
Brand names: Glucophage, Glumetza, Fortamet
Metformin is an inexpensive generic oral medication that has been the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes in the US since the 1990s. Telehealth providers also prescribe it off-label for weight management, insulin resistance, prediabetes, PCOS, and, increasingly, longevity. Its FDA approval covers type 2 diabetes only; the weight-loss effect is real but modest, and the longevity case is still unproven.
Prices last checked · each provider's date is under its price
* Prices are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Verify directly with the provider.
How Metformin Works
Metformin lowers the amount of glucose the liver releases, makes muscle and fat more responsive to insulin, and acts in the gut in ways that appear to reduce appetite slightly. In the Diabetes Prevention Program, adults with prediabetes on metformin lost about 2 kg on average, compared with almost no change on placebo, and were about 31% less likely to develop diabetes over roughly three years. That is far less weight loss than GLP-1 medications produce. Longevity interest comes from animal studies and observational data in people with diabetes; the proposed TAME trial, designed to test whether metformin delays age-related disease, has not yet produced results.
What to Expect
Usually started at a low dose with meals and increased over several weeks to limit stomach side effects. Blood sugar effects begin within days to weeks. Any weight change tends to be gradual over 6–12 months, and many people see little.
Metformin Pricing Comparison
Sorted by lowest starting price.
Prices shown are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Telehealth providers update their pricing frequently. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
| Provider | Score | Product | Price/mo | Includes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AgelessRx | 73 | Metformin | $25 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Healthspan | 71 | Metformin | $27 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| ReadyRx | 63 | Metformin (90-day program) | $32 $95 per 90 days incl. provider visit checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| bmiMD | 68 | Metformin | $37 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Fella Health | 66 | Metformin | $45 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Heally | 64 | Metformin | $49–$50 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Effecty | 67 | Metformin | $80 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| IVY RX | 64 | Metformin | $90 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Tuyo Health | 67 | Metformin (weight program) | $99 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Fem Excel | 64 | PCOS Support (metformin / spironolactone) | $108–$123 Spironolactone from $9/mo or metformin from $24/mo + mandatory $99/mo membership checked | ● Consults○ Shipping● Labs | Visit |
| Shed | 67 | Metformin + Naltrexone + Topiramate | $169 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
Common Side Effects
- •Diarrhea
- •Nausea or stomach upset
- •Gas and bloating
- •Metallic taste
- •Reduced appetite
- •Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use
Serious Side Effects
- !Lactic acidosis (boxed warning on the label; rare, and mainly a risk with kidney impairment, heavy alcohol use, or severe illness)
- !Low blood sugar when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
- !Nerve symptoms from untreated B12 deficiency
Metformin Is Not For
- ✗People with severe kidney disease (eGFR below 30)
- ✗People with metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
- ✗People who drink heavily
- ✗Anyone about to have iodinated contrast imaging or major surgery, until their prescriber says to resume
Metformin — Frequently Asked Questions
Does metformin help with weight loss?
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Modestly. Most people lose a few pounds at most, and some lose none. It is most useful for people with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or PCOS, or to help limit weight regain. For substantial weight loss, GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are far more effective.
Is metformin FDA-approved for weight loss or longevity?
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No. It is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Prescribing it for weight, PCOS, or longevity is off-label, which is legal and common but means the evidence is weaker than for its approved use.
Does metformin slow aging?
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It hasn't been shown to. Animal studies and observational data in people with diabetes are suggestive, but no completed randomized trial shows that metformin extends lifespan or delays aging in healthy people. Some research also suggests it may blunt some of the fitness gains from exercise.
How do I reduce metformin stomach side effects?
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Take it with meals, start at a low dose and increase slowly, and ask about the extended-release (ER) version, which many people tolerate better. Side effects often settle after the first few weeks.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.Metformin requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Side effects, risks, and suitability vary by individual. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Telehealth Match is not a healthcare provider.
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