Compare metformin vs. Prandin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Glucophage (metformin)

Prescription only

Prandin (repaglinide)

Prescription only
Lowers blood sugar.

Glucophage (metformin) is the first choice medicine to control your blood sugar and lower the risk of death from diabetes, although a few people may not tolerate the stomach side effects.

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3.7/ 5 average rating with 938 reviewsformetformin
Lowers blood sugar.

Prandin (repaglinide) works quickly to lower blood sugar, especially during mealtimes. However, it can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if you are not consistent with your diet and exercise schedule.

Upsides
  • Improves sugar control and lowers A1c levels as much as 2%.
  • One of the few diabetes medicines that lowers the risk of death from diabetes-related complications.
  • Doesn't cause weight gain.
  • Rarely causes low blood sugar.
  • Quickly and effectively lowers blood sugar during meal times.
  • Less likely to cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) than Starlix (nateglinide).
  • Good first-choice if you cannot tolerate metformin or add-on therapy if your blood sugars are not controlled on metformin alone.
Downsides
  • Often causes stomach upset, like diarrhea, nausea, gas, or stomach cramping.
  • Usually not a good choice for people with kidney problems. Your doctor will tell you if Glucophage (metformin) is right for you to take.
  • Excessive or chronic alcohol use can increase the risk of a dangerous side effect.
  • May cause some weight gain.
  • May cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
  • Can frequently interfere with how other medicines work.
  • Not a good choice if you have poor kidney function, liver problems, or younger than 18 years old.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release pill
  • Liquid
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$11.62
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Lowest price
$16.81
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Reviews
938 reviews so far
65%
saidit'sworth it
46%
saiditworked well
16%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
7possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
    53%
  • Nausea/vomiting
    26%
  • Gas
    12%
  • Weakness
    9%
  • Indigestion
    7%
  • Stomach pain
    6%
  • Headache
    6%
See more detailed side effects
20possible side effects
  • Low blood sugar
    31%
  • Headache
    11%
  • Sinusitis
    6%
  • Joint pain
    6%
  • Nausea
    5%
  • Diarrhea
    5%
  • Back pain
    5%
  • Swelling in arms and legs
    5%
  • Heart failure
    4%
  • Rhinitis
    3%
  • Constipation
    3%
  • Vomiting
    3%
  • Tingling, numbness, or burning sensation on the skin
    3%
  • Chest pain
    3%
  • Weight gain
    3%
  • Inflammation of the airways
    2%
  • Indigestion
    2%
  • Urinary tract infection
    2%
  • Tooth disorder
    2%
  • Allergy
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Excess lactic acid in the blood
    • Kidney problems
    • Liver problems
    • Congestive heart failure
    • Using contrast dye for procedures
    • Surgery
    • Alcohol use
  • Low vitamin B12 levels
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
    • Alcoholism
    • Changes in meal pattern
    • Changes in exercise
    • Insulin
    • Other antidiabetic medications
    • Elderly
    • Bad liver or kidney function
  • Heart damage
    • use with NPH-insulin
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Glucophage (metformin)
Learn more about Prandin (repaglinide)