A long-used oral medication for blood sugar and insulin
From $131/mo with a 6-month plan A licensed provider reviews your intake and decides whether it's appropriate for you. Your provider picks your starting dose and adjusts it as you go.
100% online visit
Licensed providers in all 50 states
Ships in plain packaging
Message your care team anytime
How getting metformin works
Tell us about your health. A short online intake: your history, medications and goals.
A licensed provider reviews it. They decide whether it's right for you and set your dose.
Treatment ships to you. In plain packaging. Track it, and message your care team, from Care.
What it is
Metformin has been prescribed for decades to improve insulin sensitivity. It may support modest weight loss in people with insulin resistance, and it's being studied for healthy aging.
How it works in the body
It lowers the amount of glucose your liver releases and helps your muscles respond to insulin.
What to expect
Weeks 1–2: Started low with meals to limit stomach upset.
Months 1–3: Blood sugar and insulin markers usually improve first.
May be a good fit if
Your labs show insulin resistance or prediabetes
You want an oral, low-cost starting point
Probably not for you if
Significant kidney or liver disease
Heavy alcohol use
Upcoming procedures with contrast dye (tell your provider)
Doses your provider can prescribe
Metformin 500mg
Common side effects
Stomach upset or diarrhea
Metallic taste
Lower B12 over time
Safety
A licensed provider reviews your intake and decides whether it's appropriate for you.
This isn't a full list. Your provider reviews your history and medications before prescribing.