Metformin costs in 2025: With and without insurance coverage

What you’ll learn:

• Metformin can help people lose weight, but its effects are more gradual compared to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic^®.
• As an affordable, widely available generic medication, metformin may be a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly weight loss aid.
• For the best results, metformin should be combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

If you’ve been looking into weight loss medications, you’ve likely heard a lot about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic^®  and Zepbound^®. One that might not be on your radar is metformin, a medication that has been used for years to help manage type 2 diabetes. It’s one of the most prescribed medications for managing blood sugar, but recently, it’s been picking up steam for its ability to help people lose weight who don’t have diabetes. Let’s take a look at why and how.

Metformin is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes, but it can also be prescribed off-label for other purposes, like weight loss. It works very differently from GLP-1 medications like Ozempic^®. Instead of mimicking hormones to curb appetite, it helps your body use insulin more effectively. This can lead to moderate weight loss over time, especially when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. Another difference is in how it is administered. Most GLP-1 medications come as a weekly injection, while metformin is a pill.

The other difference is that while GLP-1 medications have a reputation for being expensive and are rarely covered by insurance, metformin is typically affordable even without it. Since it comes in generic formulations, you can likely get it for much cheaper. 

Let’s break down costs, compare its effectiveness for weight loss, and go through everything you need to consider when thinking about a prescription for metformin. 

What is metformin, and what is it prescribed for?

First, let’s take a closer look at what metformin is and what it can be prescribed for. Metformin is a medication that helps control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by helping the body use insulin better and lowering how much sugar the liver makes. This helps keep blood sugar from getting too high. 

Metformin has been around for a long time, and it’s considered a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, meaning doctors often prescribe it before trying other medications. It’s also sometimes used off-label to help with weight loss or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—a hormonal disorder that affects females, causing irregular periods, acne, and fertility issues.

How does metformin work for weight loss?

While the effects of metformin vary from person to person, research suggests that when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, it can support weight loss. Metformin influences weight in several key ways:

• Increases appetite-suppressing molecules: Metformin appears to raise levels of a molecule associated with appetite regulation. This molecule is naturally elevated after intense exercise, a time when hunger is typically reduced. By mimicking this response, metformin may help curb cravings.
• Enhances insulin sensitivity: One of metformin’s primary roles is to help the body use insulin more effectively. Lowering glucose production in the liver and improving how cells absorb insulin can reduce fat storage and promote a healthier metabolism.
• Balances blood sugar levels: Metformin helps keep blood sugar steady, preventing dramatic spikes and crashes. 

While metformin’s weight loss effects are generally modest, they tend to be more significant for individuals with insulin resistance or prediabetes. If you’re considering metformin for weight loss, consult your healthcare provider to see if it aligns with your health goals.

How much weight can I lose with metformin?

Metformin doesn’t make you lose weight quickly—it works gradually over time, especially when combined with healthy eating and exercise. 

Let’s take a look at what studies show: In one study, people with BMIs of 27 or higher were able to lose about 6% of their body weight after taking metformin for six months. For a 250-pound person, that equates to about 15 pounds. The amount of weight loss will vary from person to person, depending on lifestyle habits and biology. 

People who use metformin for weight loss tend to be those with underlying metabolic issues, like insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or conditions like PCOS. These conditions can make it harder to maintain a healthy weight.

What forms does metformin come in? 

Metformin comes in two main forms: immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER). Both forms come as generic drugs, which means they will cost less than brand-name versions without insurance but work the same way. Whether you take regular or extended-release metformin depends on your health needs, how your body reacts to it, and what your doctor thinks is best for you.

Here’s a look at what they are best for:

Immediate-release (IR): This form of metformin must be taken multiple times a day to maintain blood sugar control. It’s typically cheaper than its extended-release counterpart without insurance. Brand-name versions include Glucophage^® and Riomet^®, but it’s widely available in generic form.

Extended-release (ER): The ER formulation is taken once daily and slowly releases the medication over time, which can help reduce stomach-related side effects. If someone has a sensitive stomach or experiences nausea from regular metformin, doctors often recommend ER metformin, as it’s gentler. 

When metformin is prescribed for weight loss, the extended-release version is more common. Popular brand-name versions include Glucophage XR^®, Fortamet^®, and Glumetza^®, though generic options are also widely available.

Does insurance cover metformin?

Insurance does sometimes cover metformin, but often only for specific uses. These uses usually include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Prediabetes
• PCOS

Most employer-sponsored insurance plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, cover metformin for treating diabetes. Most insurance plans don’t cover metformin for weight loss since most don’t cover medications for weight loss. Insurance coverage isn’t always necessary, though, because metformin is one of the most affordable medications available. 

Even without insurance, you can often find it for as low as $4 for a 30-day supply through discount programs or pharmacies. While extended-release versions or brand-name options can cost more, the generic versions are widely accessible. Most insurance options will cover extended-release metformin for diabetes, but the person may be required to try the immediate-release version first due to the lower cost. Most plans will also cover brand-name versions for diabetes, but they may cost slightly more. Let’s go into more detail about what you might pay.

What factors affect the cost of metformin?

Why does metformin tend to be cheaper than GLP-1 medications which can cost $1,000 or more without insurance? One of the main reasons is that it can be made in a generic form, while GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro^® and Zepbound^®)  are still under patent. But that’s not the only factor—here’s a look at what else affects metformin’s price.

Formulation 

As we said, metformin comes in two forms: immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER). ER versions often cost more due to the specialized manufacturing process required to control drug release over time. While most insurance plans cover ER metformin for diabetes, some require trying the lower-cost IR version first. The good news is both versions are available as generics.

Generic vs. brand name

Brand-name metformin (e.g., Glucophage, Fortamet, Glumetza) can be significantly more expensive than generic options, which cost just cents per pill. Some extended-release brand versions have exceeded $2,000 per month. Because generics provide the same benefits, insurers and people taking them overwhelmingly prefer them.

Insurance coverage and co-pays

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover generic metformin for diabetes with low co-pays (typically $0 to $5). Brand-name versions require higher co-pays and those without insurance usually pay $20 to $30 per month, though discount programs can lower costs further.

Pharmacy pricing

Different pharmacies charge different prices for metformin, even for generic versions. Manufacturer variations, location, and pharmacy pricing strategies all contribute to price differences, so shopping around can help you find the best deal.

Discounts, coupons, and assistance programs

Discount programs can reduce metformin costs to as little as $4 for a 30-day supply for those paying out-of-pocket. Many retail pharmacy chains also offer generic discount programs. While brand-name assistance programs are rare, nonprofit organizations and state programs may provide free or low-cost metformin for eligible people.

Remember, finding the right balance between cost and effectiveness is key. Don’t hesitate to discuss your budget concerns with your healthcare provider—they’re there to help you find the best solution for your health and your wallet.

How much does metformin cost with insurance?

The cost of metformin with insurance depends on your provider, coverage type, and whether it’s prescribed for diabetes or weight loss. While most insurance plans cover it for diabetes, coverage for weight loss is rare. Here’s how different insurance plans handle metformin costs:

• Private insurance: Most insurance plans cover generic metformin for diabetes, but less often for off-label uses such as weight loss or PCOS.
  • For those paying out of pocket, health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) can be used to cover metformin in most cases. Always check with your insurance provider or benefits administrator to confirm specific coverage details.
• Medicare (Part D & Advantage plans): Medicare Part D covers generic metformin for diabetes, but co-pays vary, typically $0 to $10 per month.
  • For weight loss: Medicare doesn’t cover metformin for weight loss, and coverage for prediabetes can vary by plan. It’s always a good idea to check what your plan covers and talk with your Medicare provider to get the details for your specific situation. If you need extended-release or brand-name versions like Glucophage^® or Glumetza^® to treat diabetes, you might face higher out-of-pocket costs or limited coverage. 
• Medicaid (varies by state): Most state Medicaid programs fully cover generic metformin for diabetes, but coverage for weight loss varies and is often excluded.
• Veterans Affairs (VA) & TRICARE: Typically covers metformin for diabetes with low or no co-pay, but weight-loss prescriptions are not covered unless tied to a related medical condition like insulin resistance or PCOS.

Can you get Metformin for free with insurance?

Metformin is often covered by insurance, sometimes at no cost. Let’s break down what’s covered and when:

• Coverage for diabetes treatment: Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurers cover metformin completely for type 2 diabetes. This includes both generic and brand-name options, as well as extended-release and immediate-release versions (though some insurance plans may require you to try immediate-release first before covering extended-release).
• Coverage for weight loss and other conditions: Coverage for weight loss or insulin resistance (e.g., PCOS, prediabetes) varies. Some plans may require out-of-pocket costs for off-label use. 

Pharmacy discount programs and state assistance can help lower costs. Check your insurance plan or ask your pharmacist about savings options.

How much does metformin cost without insurance?

Metformin is one of the most affordable prescription medications, especially in its generic form, at as low as $4 for a month’s supply. Prices vary based on dosage, formulation (immediate-release vs. extended-release), and where you fill your prescription.

The following price estimates are based on GoodRx listings:

• Generic:
  • Generic metformin (500 mg, 850 mg, 1000 mg): $4–$20 per month
  • Extended-release (ER) metformin (500 mg, 750 mg): $4-$29 per month
• Branded:
  • Glucophage^®: $37 per month
  • Glucophage XR^®: $42 per month
  • Riomet^®: $672-$738 per month
  • Glumetza^®: $3,221-$3,691 per month
  • Fortamet^®: $4,174-$4,664 per month

You can also get metformin combined with the Noom Med program. How? If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician will determine if a prescription for metformin is right for you. If prescribed, you’ll pay $59 for the first month and $89 per month after that (billed in three-month increments). This one price covers your medication, ongoing clinical support, and full access to Noom’s behavior change program and tools. Check your eligibility here.

Tips to reduce metformin costs without insurance

If you’re paying for metformin without insurance, there are a few ways to save. Metformin is one of the more affordable prescription drugs out there, but prices can still vary depending on where you get it. Try these strategies to find the best price:

• Use generic versions: Generic metformin is significantly cheaper than brand-name options and widely available. It’s often priced as low as a few dollars for a monthly supply. Many pharmacies offer additional discounts, making it one of the most affordable diabetes medications.
• Compare pharmacy prices: Prices for metformin can vary depending on the pharmacy. Some pharmacies offer free or low-cost discount programs that can significantly reduce the price of metformin. Checking prices at different locations can help you find the lowest available cost.
• Buy in bulk: Purchasing a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply may lower the overall cost per dose. Some pharmacies offer bulk discounts, so it’s worth checking if this option is available.
• Use a mail-order pharmacy: Mail-order services often provide lower prices than retail pharmacies. They also offer the convenience of home delivery, which may be useful for those taking metformin long-term.
• Check community health clinics: Some clinics offer low-cost or free medications based on income or financial need. Nonprofit organizations and local health programs may also assist with medication costs.

Using these strategies can help lower your out-of-pocket costs for metformin and make it more affordable without insurance.

Will the cost of metformin increase as my dose increases?

The cost of metformin can increase depending on factors like dosage and formulation. While generic metformin is generally affordable, higher daily doses or extended-release formulations may be more expensive. Some pharmacies price medications based on tablet quantity rather than strength, so a higher-dose tablet may cost the same as taking multiple lower-dose tablets. Here’s a look at the typical doses people take: 

• Metformin IR:
  • Starting dose: 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once daily
  • Maintenance dose: 500-2,550 mg per day
  • Maximum dose: 2,550 mg per day
• Metformin ER:
  • Starting dose: 500 mg once daily
  • Maintenance dose: 500-2,000 mg per day
  • Maximum dose: 2,000 mg per day

Whether you’re taking metformin for diabetes treatment or weight loss, you’ll start at a lower dose that is gradually increased as tolerated. 

Pricing for these doses can vary based on the pharmacy filling the prescription, the brand name or manufacturer, and the supply being purchased.

How to get a metformin prescription for weight loss

Metformin may be prescribed off-label for weight loss, typically for people with a BMI of 25 or greater, especially if they have insulin resistance, prediabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The decision to prescribe metformin can vary based on individual health factors and a healthcare provider’s assessment. The first thing you should do is talk to a doctor. You can:

• Talk to your primary care doctor or endocrinologist about whether metformin is right for you.
• See if you qualify for Noom Med. You’ll be connected with a clinician who can assess your needs and prescribe medications like metformin if needed. 

Where to get a prescription for metformin filled

Once you have a prescription for metformin, choosing the right pharmacy can help you find the best price. Prices for metformin vary by pharmacy, so shopping around can help you save.

The following example shows estimated prices for the starting dose (500 mg) of generic metformin based on GoodRx listings. Estimated prices are for generic immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER); prices may vary based on the dose you are prescribed. Enter your zip code on GoodRx to check for the most up-to-date prices at pharmacies near you.

1. Warehouse clubs and supermarkets

Membership-based stores and large retailers sometimes offer lower prices than traditional pharmacies. Many of these locations provide generic medications at discounted rates, sometimes even offering common prescriptions for free or at a minimal cost. 

• Costco: $13.99 (IR), $14.99 (ER)
• Walmart: $4 (IR), $4 (ER)
• Target: $19.58 (IR), $29.41 (ER)

2. Retail pharmacies & prescription discount programs

Many national and local pharmacies provide discount programs or savings cards that may lower costs. Some pharmacies have their own generic drug pricing lists, offering metformin at a reduced price for customers who enroll. Current estimated prices:

• CVS: $19.58 (IR),  $29.42 (ER)
• Walgreens: $4.22 (IR), $17.94 (ER)
• Rite Aid: $6.09 (IR), $14.01 (ER)

Disclaimer: Prices may change and are accurate as of publication. Costs can vary based on your location, pharmacy, and available discount programs.

Metformin: Side effects and warnings

Metformin has been used for decades as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes and is considered a relatively safe and well-tolerated medication. The most common side effects are typically mild and lessen as your body gets used to the medication. It also has some serious, though rare, side effects that you should be aware of before starting it. Taking Metformin with food and starting at a lower dose can help minimize discomfort.

Common side effects

Most people tolerate Metformin well, but mild to moderate side effects can occur, particularly when first starting the medication or adjusting the dose. These include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Excess gas or bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion
• Metallic taste in the mouth

If any of these side effects persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor.

Serious side effects and warnings

While metformin is generally safe, it can have some rare and serious side effects. If you experience any of the following, get immediate medical attention.

• Lactic acidosis – This is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Early symptoms include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, rapid breathing, muscle weakness, and abdominal pain.
• Kidney problems – Metformin is cleared through the kidneys, so declining kidney function can lead to drug buildup and toxicity. Dehydration, aging, or pre-existing kidney disease can increase this risk. Look out for increased urination, foamy or bubbly urine, fatigue, mild swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, and muscle cramps.
• Liver injury – Although uncommon, Metformin can cause elevated liver enzymes or liver inflammation, particularly in people with existing liver disease. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bruising easily, jaundice, abdominal pain and swelling, gastrointestinal changes, confusion, and fever.
• Severe gastrointestinal issues – Persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain could indicate an intolerance to Metformin or worsening kidney function. You should seek emergency medical attention if these symptoms are severe and don’t resolve and are accompanied by symptoms like vomiting blood, bloody stools, high fever, inability to keep fluids down, severe abdominal tenderness, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency – Long-term use can reduce B12 absorption, leading to anemia, nerve issues, fatigue, and memory impairment. More common in older adults or those with digestive disorders. Symptoms may include fatigue, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, muscle weakness, sore tongue, mouth ulcers, loss of appetite, and depression.

Remember, everyone’s body is different. Your doctor is the best person to help you figure out if metformin is right for you and how to handle any side effects. For more details on how metformin works for weight management and its safety information, including risks and precautions, check out our guide on metformin for weight loss and our metformin safety info page.

Metformin alternatives to consider for weight loss

While metformin is a widely used and affordable medication and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, it’s not the only option. Several other medications can help with weight loss. Some of these alternatives may be more effective, though potentially more costly. If you qualify, Noom Med can connect you with a clinician who will help you pick the right medication for you and prescribe it if needed. Here’s a breakdown of other medications that can be used for weight loss:

GLP-1 receptor agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists are among the most effective weight loss medications currently available. Originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, these medications mimic a hormone in your body called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. Over time, this can lead to significant weight loss, especially when combined with healthy eating and exercise. 

Semaglutide medications

Semaglutide is one of the most well-known GLP-1 medications due to the popularity of Ozempic^® for its off-label weight loss use. It tends to be more effective than metformin, with people losing an average of 15% of body weight in 16 months with the injectable form. Here’s a look at all of the semaglutide medications available and their potential monthly cost.

• Ozempic^® – This once-weekly injectable medication is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes but commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss. It costs around $998 per month without insurance. Read more about reducing the cost of Ozempic^®.
• Wegovy^® – Wegovy^® is also a once-weekly injection. It’s FDA-approved for weight loss and to prevent cardiac events. The list price is $1,350 per month without insurance. The manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, recently announced that it will now offer Wegovy^® at a reduced price of $499 per month for those without insurance paying in cash through its NovoCare^® Pharmacy. Learn more about how to reduce the cost of Wegovy^®.
• Rybelsus^® – This is the only oral version of semaglutide. It’s approved for diabetes and sometimes used off-label for weight loss. It costs $998 per month without insurance. It’s likely to be less effective for weight loss than the injectable versions. Read more about the cost of Rybelsus^®.

Compounded semaglutide

If you qualify for Noom Med, you can ask your clinician about compounded semaglutide* through Noom GLP-1^Rx. It contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® but can be more affordable for some people. Your clinician can determine if it is the right medication for you and then prescribe it if needed. 

It starts at $149 for the first month and then costs $279 per month, billed in three-month increments. This price includes medication delivered to your door, access to a clinician, and a weight loss plan designed specifically for you. You’ll also get access to all of Noom’s trackers, tools, and community support. Here’s how you can find out if a prescription for compounded semaglutide is right for you.

Tirzepatide medications

Tirzepatide works similarly to semaglutide but targets GIP receptors along with GLP-1. This dual action may lead to more significant weight loss for some people. In clinical trials, people lost an average of 21% of body weight in 16 months with tirzepatide medications. Here are the options:

• Zepbound^®  – Zepbound^® is FDA-approved for weight loss. It can also be prescribed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The list price is $1,086 per month without insurance for the prefilled pens. You can get Zepbound^® cheaper if you go through LilyDirect. They have a vial and syringe option that you will draw and inject yourself. Learn more about the pricing of Zepbound^®.
• Mounjaro^®  – Mounjaro^®, like Ozempic^®, is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. The cost is about $1,080 per month without insurance. Learn more about the pricing of Mounjaro^®.

Liraglutide Medications

Liraglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it requires a daily injection instead of a weekly. Weight loss is likely to be less than with semaglutide or tirzepatide. Here are the medications with liraglutide:

• Saxenda^® – Saxenda^® is FDA-approved for weight loss and to help reduce cardiovascular risk. Its list price is $1,349 per month without insurance. Learn more about the pricing of Saxenda^®.
• Victoza^® – Victoza^® is FDA-approved for diabetes management and to help reduce cardiovascular risk. It’s also sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss. Without insurance, the cost ranges from $800 to $1,400 per month. 
• Generic liraglutide – One of the only generic GLP-1 medications available, this form of liraglutide is typically used to manage type 2 diabetes. It costs around $470 for two pens and $704 for three pens.

Dulaglutide Medications

Dulaglutide is a weekly injectable GLP-1, available under the brand name Trulicity^®. It works similarly to Ozempic^®  but targets GLP-1 receptors differently and might be less effective. Trulicity^® is FDA-approved for diabetes management and occasionally prescribed off-label for weight loss. The list price is $987 per month without insurance. Read more about the cost of Trulicity^®.

Other weight loss medications

While GLP-1 medications are widely used for weight loss, other options may be equally effective or more affordable for some individuals. Below are alternative weight loss medications to consider. Be sure to check with your pharmacy for the most up-to-date pricing.

• Orlistat – This is a fat-blocking medication that prevents the body from absorbing dietary fat. It’s taken three times daily with meals, with costs ranging from $50 to $800 per month, depending on the brand (Xenical^® vs. Alli^®). Studies show that after one year, people taking Orlistat may lose an average of 10% of their body weight.
• Phentermine – This short-term appetite suppressant is taken once daily and typically costs $27 to $100 per month. One study showed that 45% of the people who took phentermine lost 5% or more of their body weight in a little over a year.
• Diethylpropion – Another short-term appetite suppressant, diethylpropion, is taken one to three times daily and costs between $40 and $85 per month. Studies have shown that in 84 days of treatment, individuals were able to lose up to 10% of their body weight.
• Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave) – This medication helps reduce appetite and cravings. If purchased through the CurAccess™ Patient Support Program, Contrave^®  costs $99 per month with free shipping. Without savings programs, prices range from $600 to $800 per month. In one study, people lost an average of 4% of their weight in 16 weeks. 

Ultimately, the right medication depends on your health goals, medical history, and budget. Metformin remains one of the most affordable and widely used medications for diabetes, but it might not lead to significant weight loss. For those looking for more weight loss, GLP-1 medications may be worth considering if they fit into your budget.

Making informed decisions about metformin costs

If you’re exploring weight loss medications, metformin might be an option worth considering, especially if affordability is one of the most important factors. Its widespread availability as a generic medication makes it a budget-friendly option. While you likely will not lose as much weight as with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic^® or Zepbound^®, metformin can still help. People with insulin resistance or metabolic conditions might see more significant results because metformin improves insulin sensitivity rather than directly suppressing appetite.

The best medication for weight loss depends on your health history, weight loss goals, and response to a medication. If you’re weighing your options, consider discussing metformin with a healthcare provider to see if it aligns with your needs. Ultimately, the key to long-term success isn’t just the medication itself but pairing it with sustainable lifestyle habits to maintain results over time. Explore Noom Med and discover how we can help you create a sustainable, personalized path to better health.

*Compounded semaglutide available on the Noom platform is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.

Note: Ozempic^® and Mounjaro^® are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.