⚕️ Prices shown are estimated cash prices for informational purposes only. Always verify with your pharmacy. Not medical advice.

Metformin Price Comparison

500mg · 30-count · Diabetes · Brand: Glucophage · Generic available

Cheapest Cash Price
$3.50
at Costco · 500mg · 30-count
GoodRx Low Est.
$3.20
with discount card
Cash Price by Pharmacy — 500mg · 30-count
PharmacyCash PricePer-30-Day Equiv.
Costco Cheapest$3.50$3.50
Walmart$4.00$4.00
Kroger$5.00$5.00
Target$5.99$5.99
CVS$14.99$14.99
Rite Aid$15.00$15.00
Walgreens$16.50$16.50

Brand vs. Generic: Glucophage vs. Metformin HCl

The generic form of Metformin (Metformin HCl) 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.

Brand: Glucophage
$9.28
avg retail / 30 count
Generic: Metformin HCl
$3.50
cheapest at Costco

Tip: In most states, pharmacists can substitute a generic unless your prescriber writes "dispense as written" (DAW).

About Metformin

Metformin is used to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It is sold under the brand name Glucophage and is available as the generic Metformin HCl. A standard supply is 30 500mg.

Why Do Prices Vary by Pharmacy?

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.

How to Pay Less for Metformin

Shop around. The cheapest pharmacy (Costco at $3.50) charges significantly less than the most expensive option ($16.50). A quick call can save you real money.

Ask for the generic. If your doctor prescribed the brand-name Glucophage, ask your pharmacist whether the generic Metformin HCl 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 is around $3.20.

💡 Tip: Walmart's $4 and $10 generic drug program covers many common generics. Call your local Walmart pharmacy to ask if Metformin is on their list.

Does Insurance Cover Metformin?

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.

About This Price Data

Prices represent estimated retail cash prices for Metformin 500mg (30-count) as of 2026. Actual prices may vary. RxCostCheck does not collect or sell your health data. Learn more →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Metformin cost without insurance?

Without insurance, Metformin 500mg (30-count) ranges from $3.50 at Costco to $16.50. With a GoodRx discount card, the price can be as low as $3.20.

Where is the cheapest place to fill Metformin?

Costco currently offers the lowest cash price at $3.50 for 30 500mg.

Is there a generic for Metformin?

Yes — the generic Metformin HCl is available and bioequivalent to Glucophage. Ask your pharmacist to dispense the generic to save money.

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