500mg · 30-count · Diabetes · Brand: Glucophage XR · Generic available
| Pharmacy | Cash Price | Per-30-Day Equiv. |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart Cheapest | $4.00 | $4.00 |
| Costco | $4.20 | $4.20 |
| Kroger | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Target | $6.49 | $6.49 |
| Rite Aid | $17.50 | $17.50 |
| CVS | $18.99 | $18.99 |
| Walgreens | $19.50 | $19.50 |
The generic form of Metformin ER (Metformin HCl ER) contains the same active ingredient and is bioequivalent to the brand. Ask your pharmacist to dispense the generic — it works the same way at a fraction of the cost.
Tip: In most states, pharmacists can substitute a generic unless your prescriber writes "dispense as written" (DAW).
Metformin ER is used to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It is sold under the brand name Glucophage XR and is available as the generic Metformin HCl ER. A standard supply is 30 500mg.
Pharmacy pricing is not regulated in the United States, so retailers set their own cash prices. Large retailers like Walmart and Costco typically offer lower prices on generics because they use prescriptions as a traffic driver. Chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens tend to charge significantly more.
Diabetes medications can vary widely in price. Generic versions are available for most first-line treatments. Walmart's $4 program covers several common diabetes generics.
Shop around. The cheapest pharmacy (Walmart at $4.00) charges significantly less than the most expensive option ($19.50). A quick call can save you real money.
Ask for the generic. If your doctor prescribed the brand-name Glucophage XR, ask your pharmacist whether the generic Metformin HCl ER is available. In most states, pharmacists can substitute a generic unless the prescriber writes 'dispense as written.'
Use a discount card. Services like GoodRx, SingleCare, and WellRx can sometimes negotiate prices lower than retail cash. The estimated GoodRx low for Metformin ER is around $3.80.
Coverage depends on your specific plan and formulary. Most diabetes medications are covered under standard health insurance, typically in Tier 1 or Tier 2. If your copay is higher than the cash price above, it may be cheaper to pay out of pocket — ask your pharmacist to compare.
Prices represent estimated retail cash prices for Metformin ER 500mg (30-count) as of 2026. Actual prices may vary. RxCostCheck does not collect or sell your health data. Learn more →
How much does Metformin ER cost without insurance?
Without insurance, Metformin ER 500mg (30-count) ranges from $4.00 at Walmart to $19.50. With a GoodRx discount card, the price can be as low as $3.80.
Where is the cheapest place to fill Metformin ER?
Walmart currently offers the lowest cash price at $4.00 for 30 500mg.
Is there a generic for Metformin ER?
Yes — the generic Metformin HCl ER is available and bioequivalent to Glucophage XR. Ask your pharmacist to dispense the generic to save money.
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