Metformin Price UK – Current Costs and Savings Tips

If you’ve been prescribed metformin for type 2 diabetes, the first thing on your mind is probably the price. In the UK you’ll see two main price buckets: the NHS prescription charge and the private or online cost. Knowing where each falls helps you avoid surprise bills.

What You Pay for Metformin on the NHS

Most people get metformin through the NHS, which means a standard prescription charge of £9.35 per item in England (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have free prescriptions). If you’re under 18, over 60, pregnant, or receive certain benefits, you won’t pay anything. The charge applies whether you get the brand‑name Glucophage or a generic version – the medication itself is covered by the NHS, only the administration fee is charged.

When the drug is listed as a repeat prescription, the same £9.35 applies each time you collect it, unless you qualify for exemption. Some pharmacies offer a small discount if you pay the charge upfront for a three‑month supply, but the saving is modest compared to the exemption routes.

Saving Money When Buying Metformin Privately

If you need metformin quickly or want to avoid the NHS charge, you can buy it privately. Generic metformin tablets (500 mg) typically cost between £2 and £5 for a 30‑day supply, while the branded Glucophage can be £12‑£15 for the same amount. Prices vary by pharmacy, so it pays to shop around.Online pharmacies can be cheaper, but you must check they’re licensed by the MHRA. Look for the EU pharmacy logo, a clear address in the UK, and a registration number on the website. Avoid sites that promise “£0.10 per tablet” – they’re often scams and may sell counterfeit medicine.

Here are three easy ways to drop the cost:

• Choose generic. The active ingredient is the same, and the NHS and most doctors treat it as the first‑line option.
• Buy in bulk. A 90‑day pack can be 10‑20 % cheaper per tablet than a 30‑day pack.
• Use a price‑comparison tool. Websites like Pharmacy2U, Boots and LloydsPharmacy list private prices side‑by‑side.

Don’t forget to ask your doctor if a longer repeat prescription is possible. A three‑month repeat reduces the number of pharmacy visits and can lower the total number of prescription charges you face.

When ordering online, double‑check that the product description matches the dosage you need (typically 500 mg or 850 mg). Verify the pharmacy’s contact details and read any customer reviews that mention delivery times and product quality. A reputable online pharmacy will also offer a clear refund policy if the medication arrives damaged or late.

Finally, keep your medication in a safe place and track when it runs out. Running out early can force you into an urgent purchase at a higher price, whereas a well‑planned refill schedule keeps costs predictable.

Bottom line: NHS patients usually pay the standard prescription charge unless they’re exempt, while private shoppers can save by picking generic, buying larger packs, and using trusted online pharmacies. With a few simple checks, you can keep your metformin affordable and safe.