# Metformin in Nigeria

Metformin has 72 active NAFDAC registrations in our October 2026 copy of the register, from 42 registration holders; 81 further listings have lapsed.

- Source: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/metformin/
- Drug class: Biguanide antidiabetic (Diabetes)
- Also known as: Glucophage, Metformin HCl
- Prescription required: yes
- On the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- Last updated: October 2026

## Price in Nigeria

As of October 2026, a pack of 30 metformin tablets sells for about ₦11,550 online in Nigeria (₦80–₦637 a tablet, strip or bulk pack; Glucophage, Diabetmin) at HealthPlus and MedPlus; packs of 100 ₦8,040. The online price is down 3% since July 2026. Open-market prices (e.g. Idumota, Ogbogwu) are often lower.

## What is Metformin?

Metformin is the first-line drug used worldwide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Nigeria is no exception. Sold under popular brand names such as Glucophage, Dialon, and Panfor, Metformin belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It works primarily by reducing the amount of glucose (sugar) produced by the liver and by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, the hormone responsible for moving sugar from the blood into the cells where it is used for energy. Unlike some other diabetes medications, Metformin does not cause weight gain, which is a significant advantage for the many Nigerians managing both diabetes and obesity.

Diabetes mellitus is a rapidly growing epidemic in Nigeria. According to the International Diabetes Federation, Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of diabetes in Africa, with millions of adults living with the condition and many more undiagnosed. Factors driving this rise include urbanisation, the shift towards processed and high-calorie diets, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for over 90% of all diabetes cases, is particularly common among middle-aged and older Nigerians. Metformin is the cornerstone of treatment for this condition and is widely available and affordable across the country.

You can find Metformin in virtually every pharmacy in Nigeria, from large chains in Lagos and Abuja to community pharmacies in smaller towns. It is available as standard tablets (500mg, 850mg, and 1000mg) and as extended-release tablets (Glucophage XR) that are taken once daily and may cause fewer stomach side effects. Both generic and branded metformin, including Glucophage, are NAFDAC-registered and widely stocked. Metformin is a prescription-only medication in Nigeria, so you will need a doctor's prescription to purchase it from a registered pharmacy.

Our October 2026 copy of the NAFDAC register lists 153 metformin products, 72 of them with Active registrations: Merck's Glucophage 850 and 1000 mg and Glucophage XR 750 and 1000 mg (B4-5413, 04-6234, B4-8204, B4-8203), Phamatex's Diabetmin 500 (04-0810), May & Baker's Diamet SR 1000 (A4-2608) and a long list of Nigerian and Indian generics. Emzor's Emzophage (A4-8314), Glucophage 500 (04-6233) and Mega's Panfor SR 500 (04-8247) are recorded Inactive since June 2026 and Diabetmin 1000 mg Expired — renewal matters for the holders, not verdicts on the tablets, but worth a check of the printed number on any such pack.

## What is Metformin used for?

- First-line treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults
- Management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal condition in Nigerian women
- Pre-diabetes management to prevent progression to full type 2 diabetes
- Treatment of insulin resistance, often seen alongside obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Combination therapy with other diabetes drugs such as glibenclamide or insulin when Metformin alone is not enough

## Dosage

Always follow a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions; this is general reference information.

- Adults: The usual starting dose is 500mg once or twice daily, taken with meals. The dose is gradually increased every 1-2 weeks based on blood sugar readings, up to a maximum of 2000-2550mg per day in divided doses. For the extended-release form (Glucophage XR), the starting dose is usually 500mg once daily with the evening meal, increased gradually up to 2000mg once daily. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
- Children: Metformin can be used in children aged 10 years and above for type 2 diabetes. The starting dose is usually 500mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 2000mg daily in divided doses. Metformin use in children should be closely supervised by a paediatrician or endocrinologist.
- Elderly: Elderly patients should start at the lowest dose (500mg once daily) and have their dose increased more slowly. Kidney function should be checked regularly, as reduced kidney function is more common in older adults and affects how Metformin is cleared from the body.

Always take Metformin with meals to reduce stomach side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea. Start with a low dose and increase gradually — this is known as 'start low, go slow' and is key to tolerating the drug. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next one. Never take a double dose.

## Side effects

Common: Diarrhoea (the most common side effect, usually improves after a few weeks); Nausea and vomiting, especially when starting treatment; Stomach pain and bloating; Loss of appetite; Metallic taste in the mouth; Flatulence (gas).

Serious (seek medical help immediately): Lactic acidosis (very rare but life-threatening — symptoms include unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, dizziness, and feeling very cold); Severe allergic reaction (skin rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing); Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use (can cause anaemia, numbness, and tingling in hands and feet).

When to see a doctor: See a doctor or go to the nearest hospital immediately if you experience symptoms of lactic acidosis such as unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual tiredness, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold or dizzy. Also seek medical attention if you develop a severe skin rash, persistent diarrhoea that does not improve, or symptoms of low blood sugar (sweating, shaking, confusion) if you are taking Metformin with other diabetes drugs. If you are scheduled for a CT scan or any procedure involving contrast dye, inform your doctor that you take Metformin, as it may need to be stopped temporarily.

## Warnings

Do not take if: Severe kidney disease or kidney failure (eGFR below 30 ml/min); Severe liver disease or liver failure; Conditions that cause tissue hypoxia, such as severe heart failure, respiratory failure, or recent heart attack; Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA); Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Metformin or any component of the formulation; Severe dehydration or conditions causing dehydration (e.g., severe diarrhoea or vomiting); Heavy alcohol use or binge drinking (increases the risk of lactic acidosis).

Interactions: Alcohol — increases the risk of lactic acidosis and can worsen blood sugar control; Contrast dyes used in X-ray or CT scan procedures — Metformin should be stopped 48 hours before and after the procedure; Other diabetes drugs such as glibenclamide and insulin — may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when combined; Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) — can raise blood sugar and reduce Metformin's effectiveness; Diuretics (water tablets) such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide — may affect kidney function and Metformin clearance; Some blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) — may enhance Metformin's blood sugar lowering effect.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Metformin use during pregnancy is a topic of ongoing discussion. While insulin is traditionally the preferred treatment for diabetes in pregnancy, Metformin is increasingly being used for gestational diabetes and in women with PCOS who become pregnant, particularly in resource-limited settings like Nigeria where insulin access and cold chain storage are challenges. Some Nigerian endocrinologists and obstetricians prescribe Metformin during pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the risks. Metformin does pass into breast milk in small amounts, but it is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Always discuss your options with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

## Brands in Nigeria

Well-known NAFDAC-registered brands: Glucophage (Merck, made in Spain); Emzophage (Emzor, made in Nigeria); Glucophage XR (Merck, made in France); Panfor (Mega Lifesciences, made in India); Diabetmin (Phamatex Nigeria Limited, made in Malaysia).
Full searchable brand list: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/metformin/brands/

## How to verify it is genuine

1. Check the NAFDAC registration number on the pack. In our October 2026 copy of the register Glucophage XR 1000 (B4-8203) and Diabetmin 500 (04-0810) are Active; Glucophage 500 (04-6233), Panfor SR 500 (04-8247) and Emzophage (A4-8314) are recorded Inactive — confirm it on the official Greenbook. Enter the number in our free NAFDAC checker and confirm the product name, strength and holder match the pack
2. Look for the Mobile Authentication Service (MAS) scratch code on the pack. Scratch the silver panel and text the code to the number printed on the pack to confirm the product is genuine. This is especially important for imported brands.
3. Buy only from licensed pharmacies. Diabetes medications should not be purchased from open markets, roadside vendors, or unregistered stores. Counterfeit diabetes drugs are particularly dangerous because they may contain no active ingredient, leaving your blood sugar uncontrolled.
4. Check the packaging for clear printing, a batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date. Compare the tablets with what you have used before — any change in size, colour, or taste should be reported to your pharmacist.
5. Store Metformin at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not use tablets that have changed colour, smell unusual, or are past their expiry date.

Verify any NAFDAC number free (no login): https://ogbogwu.com/nafdac-checker/

## FAQs

### Does Metformin cure diabetes?

No, Metformin does not cure type 2 diabetes. It is a management tool that helps control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and heart problems. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic (long-term) condition that requires ongoing treatment, which typically includes medication, dietary changes, regular exercise, and routine monitoring. Some patients with pre-diabetes or early-stage type 2 diabetes who make significant lifestyle changes (weight loss, healthy eating, regular physical activity) may be able to reduce or even stop their medication over time, but this should only be done under medical supervision. Never stop taking Metformin on your own without your doctor's approval.

### Can I take Metformin together with other diabetes drugs?

Yes, Metformin is commonly used in combination with other diabetes medications. In fact, when Metformin alone is not enough to control blood sugar levels, doctors in Nigeria frequently add a second drug such as glibenclamide (a sulfonylurea) or insulin. There is even a fixed-dose combination tablet called Glucovance that contains both Metformin and glibenclamide in one pill for convenience. However, combining diabetes drugs increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when Metformin is used with sulfonylureas or insulin. Your doctor will monitor your blood sugar closely and adjust doses accordingly. Never add another diabetes medication on your own without consulting your doctor.

### Why does Metformin cause stomach problems, and how can I avoid them?

Metformin commonly causes stomach side effects like diarrhoea, nausea, bloating, and gas, especially when you first start taking it or when the dose is increased. This happens because Metformin affects how glucose is absorbed in the gut. The good news is that these side effects usually improve after a few weeks as your body adjusts. To minimise stomach problems, always take Metformin with meals (never on an empty stomach), start with a low dose and increase gradually as directed by your doctor, and consider asking your doctor about the extended-release form (Glucophage XR), which is designed to be gentler on the stomach. If stomach side effects are severe or do not improve after several weeks, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dose or switching formulations.

## Sources

- NAFDAC Greenbook (official register of approved products in Nigeria)
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines (Federal Ministry of Health)