Metformin is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for type 2 diabetes. If you have just been prescribed metformin, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 2 July 2026.
What is metformin?
Metformin is the usual first medicine for type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar by reducing the glucose your liver makes and helping your body respond to insulin.
Brands and strengths
Metformin is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic metformin and under brand names including Glucophage, Bolamyn and Sukkarto — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Metformin 500 mg tablets
- Metformin 850 mg tablets
- Metformin 1 g tablets
- Metformin modified-release (MR)
- UK brands: Glucophage, Bolamyn and Sukkarto
What metformin is used for
- Type 2 diabetes
How to take metformin
Taken with or just after food to reduce stomach upset, usually 1–3 times a day (or once daily for modified-release). Keep taking it as prescribed. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects are stomach-related — feeling sick, diarrhoea and stomach ache — usually easing over time; taking it with food helps. Contact a clinician if you feel very unwell. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Metformin: frequently asked questions
Yes. Glucophage is a brand name for metformin; the generic is the same active ingredient.
Take it with or just after food, and ask your prescriber about the modified-release (MR) version, which is often better tolerated.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for metformin, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your metformin delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for metformin, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Metformin.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.