Is a Generic Version of Metformin Available?
The drug acts in several ways, improving the effectiveness of
insulin receptors (known medically as decreasing insulin resistance), decreasing sugar (glucose) production by the liver, and decreasing sugar absorption from the diet.
Metformin was first manufactured under the brand name of Glucophage. Metformin is also available in an extended-release form called
Glucophage XR®. Glucophage and Glucophage XR are manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb. However, they have since come off patent, and both are available in generic versions.
Recently, new brand-name versions of metformin became available, including
Fortamet®,
Glumetza®, and
Riomet®. These medications do not have generic versions and are not equivalent to Glucophage, Glucophage XR, or
metformin ER.
Strengths of Generic Metformin
Interestingly, generic metformin is available in more strengths than its brand-name version.
While Glucophage is only available in three strengths (500 mg, 850 mg, and 1000 mg), generic metformin is available in the following strengths:
The long-acting generic versions of Glucophage XR are available in the following strengths:
- Metformin ER 500 mg tablets
- Metformin ER 750 mg tablets.
