Metformin Tablets
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
500mg · 850mg
Metformin tablets for type 2 diabetes. It reduces sugar output from the liver and helps the body respond better to its own insulin.
From$0.24/ tabletView
Metformin
Two metformin products sit on this shelf: plain Metformin Tablets at 500 mg and 850 mg, and Glucovance, which pairs metformin with glibenclamide for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Glucovance
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
2.5mg + 400mg · 5mg + 500mg
Metformin and glibenclamide tablets for type 2 diabetes. The two drugs lower blood sugar by different routes, so one pill does the work of two separate ones.
From$1.16/ tabletView
Key points
- Lactic acidosis is the boxed warning on metformin’s label: a rare but serious build-up of acid in the blood that can be fatal, and the risk rises with kidney impairment, heavy alcohol use and certain interacting drugs.
- Metformin is a biguanide that lowers blood glucose by cutting the liver’s glucose output and increasing how well your body responds to insulin.
- Glucovance adds glibenclamide, a sulfonylurea that stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin, so the combination lowers glucose through two separate mechanisms in one tablet.
Common questions about Metformin
What separates the two products on this shelf?
Metformin Tablets contain only metformin, at 500 mg and 850 mg. Glucovance combines metformin with glibenclamide in two fixed-dose strengths: 2.5 mg + 400 mg and 5 mg + 500 mg. The single-ingredient line suits someone who needs metformin alone; the combination suits someone whose glucose is not controlled by metformin on its own.
How is metformin cleared from the body, and why does that matter?
About 90% of absorbed metformin leaves through the kidneys within 24 hours, with a plasma half-life of roughly 6.2 hours. When kidney function drops, the drug accumulates instead of clearing, and that build-up is what triggers lactic acidosis. The label sets a hard stop: metformin must not be used below an eGFR of 30 mL/minute/1.73 m².
Further reading
What is metformin used for?
Metformin is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps lower blood glucose levels.
How does metformin compare with glibenclamide?
Metformin lowers blood glucose by cutting the liver's glucose output and improving how well the body responds to insulin. Glibenclamide stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin. The two work through separate mechanisms and can be combined in one tablet.
How long does metformin take to work?
Metformin starts to work within 1 to 2 weeks. Its effect lasts for 8 to 12 hours.
What are the side effects of metformin?
Common side effects include diarrhoea, nausea and flatulence. Some people may also get abdominal discomfort, a metallic taste or loss of appetite. Lactic acidosis is a serious side effect that needs immediate medical attention, so speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Can I drink alcohol while taking metformin?
Heavy alcohol use raises the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect. Alcohol can also interact with metformin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
Which metformin products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, metformin comes as Metformin Tablets and Glucovance. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What are other names for metformin?
Metformin is also sold under brand names such as Glucophage. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare products.
How much does metformin cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Can I buy metformin over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order metformin. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy metformin online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →