Metformin Tablets
Metformin tablets for type 2 diabetes. It reduces sugar output from the liver and helps the body respond better to its own insulin.
- Category
- Diabetes Management
- Active ingredient
- Metformin
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Tablet
- Strengths
- 500mg · 850mg
A generic with the stated active ingredient and strength. The maker is confirmed before dispatch.
No prescription needed: we place your order for Metformin Tablets on your behalf.
- Condition
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
- Alternative names
- glucophage
- Therapeutic class
- Biguanide
- Pharmacological class
- Antidiabetic
- Known off-label uses
- polycystic ovary syndrome
- Contraindications
- severe renal impairment; acute metabolic acidosis; diabetic ketoacidosis
- Minor side effects
- diarrhoea; nausea; flatulence
- Moderate side effects
- abdominal discomfort; metallic taste; anorexia
- Serious side effects
- lactic acidosis, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Onset Time
- 1–2 weeks
- Duration
- 8–12 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C.
- Drug interactions
- Contrast Media; Alcohol; Cimetidine
- Age restrictions
- Approved for children over ten years and adults.
Patient summary
Metformin tablets for type 2 diabetes. It reduces sugar output from the liver and helps the body respond better to its own insulin.
Mechanism of action
Slowing hepatic glucose production, reducing intestinal sugar absorption, and improving peripheral cell insulin utilisation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Glycaemic management with insulin preferred. Breastfeeding: Confirm breastfeeding suitability with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.
Is Metformin a generic?
Yes. Metformin is a generic medicine sold under the name of its active ingredient, metformin, rather than under a brand. The exact manufacturer depends on stock.
How is Metformin priced?
Metformin comes in 500mg and 850mg strengths, in packs of 10 to 360 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above in rand, converted from US dollars. Larger packs cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is Metformin sold under other names?
Other brand names for metformin include Glucophage.
What is Metformin used for?
Metformin is used for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
How quickly does Metformin work?
Metformin usually starts to work within 1 to 2 weeks. The exact timing differs between people.
Does Metformin have side effects?
Yes. The common side effects of metformin are diarrhoea, nausea and flatulence. Less common ones include abdominal discomfort, metallic taste and loss of appetite. Serious but less common side effects include lactic acidosis, which needs urgent medical attention.
Is it OK to drink alcohol while taking Metformin?
Alcohol can interact with metformin, so check with a doctor or pharmacist before you drink while taking Metformin.
Which medicines interact with Metformin?
Metformin can interact with contrast media and cimetidine. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Metformin.
Can I buy Metformin over the counter in South Africa?
Online, yes: 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 →What you will receive
Metformin Tablets is a generic, listed by its active ingredient, Metformin.
- The maker is confirmed before dispatch.
- Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry details.