Florida · Type 2 diabetes
Metformin refill online in Florida
Already taking metformin? If you're physically in Florida, a Florida-registered telehealth physician can review a request to continue it for $39. If it's safe to continue, the prescription goes to the Florida pharmacy you choose.
About Metformin
Metformin is usually the first medicine for type 2 diabetes. Immediate-release tablets are often taken twice a day with meals; extended-release (Glucophage XR, Glumetza, Fortamet) is often taken once a day with the evening meal. It also comes combined with other diabetes medicines, such as Janumet, Synjardy and Xigduo XR.
What the physician reviews before refilling
- Your dose, form and last dose
- Your last A1C; many people with stable diabetes have one about every 3 to 6 months
- Kidney function (eGFR), checked at least yearly: metformin isn't used when kidney function is very low
- Stomach upset, diarrhea or loss of appetite
- Numbness or tingling in the feet, since long-term use can lower vitamin B12
- Heavy alcohol use
- A recent or upcoming CT scan with contrast dye, or surgery
Safety points
- By itself, metformin rarely causes low blood sugar. With insulin or a sulfonylurea it can.
- Lactic acidosis is rare but serious. The risk rises with kidney problems, severe dehydration, heavy drinking or serious infection.
- Stomach side effects usually ease with time and food; extended-release is often easier to tolerate.
Florida tips
- Sick days: heat illness or a stomach bug on vacation can leave you unable to eat or drink. Ask a clinician whether to hold metformin until you're keeping fluids down.
- Metformin is stored at room temperature, so a power outage doesn't spoil it, but keep it dry, out of a hot car and in the original bottle.
Cost
The $39 covers the physician review. You pay for metformin separately at your pharmacy. Generic versions are usually much cheaper than brand names; ask for the cash price or use a free discount card. We don't bill insurance, but your pharmacy can run the prescription through your own plan.
Questions about Metformin
Do I need an A1C test to refill metformin?
It helps. If your last A1C and kidney test were within about the past year and your sugars are stable, the physician can often continue metformin. If it has been longer, you may be asked to get labs.
What's the difference between metformin and metformin ER?
They're the same medicine. ER releases it slowly, is usually taken once a day and tends to cause fewer stomach problems. Doses aren't always swapped one-for-one, so tell us exactly what your label says.
Can metformin cause low blood sugar?
Rarely on its own. Lows are more likely if you also take insulin, glipizide, glimepiride or glyburide, or if you skip meals and drink alcohol.