PBS Metformin Cost: What Australians Pay in 2025

If you have type 2 diabetes, metformin is probably the first drug your doctor mentioned. But how much will it actually cost you under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)? The answer can be surprisingly simple – if you know where to look and what the rules are.

Standard PBS Price and Your Co‑payment

In 2025 the PBS lists metformin (both immediate‑release and extended‑release forms) at a fixed schedule price. For most pack sizes the government subsidises the medication so you only pay the patient co‑payment, currently $6.80 for general patients and $3.40 for concession card holders. That means a month’s supply of 500 mg tablets can cost less than $10 for most people.

Why does the price stay the same no matter the brand? Because PBS uses a “generic substitution” rule – any approved manufacturer can supply the drug at the same schedule price. If you get a brand‑name pack, the pharmacy will automatically switch it to a generic as long as it meets the PBS criteria.

Who Gets the PBS Discount?

Anyone with a valid Medicare card can claim the PBS discount, but there are a few exceptions. If you’re a private patient for a non‑PBS item, you’ll pay the full cost. Also, if you order metformin from an overseas online pharmacy, the PBS won’t apply – you’ll be on your own for pricing.

Concession card holders (seniors, pensioners, low‑income families) enjoy the lower $3.40 co‑payment. To qualify, you need a valid Department of Human Services concession card. Once it’s on file with your pharmacy, the reduced price kicks in automatically.

Tips to Keep Your Metformin Costs Low

1. Ask for a PBS prescription. Some doctors write a private script by mistake; a quick reminder can save you dozens of dollars.

2. Choose the most common pack size. Smaller packs sometimes have higher per‑tablet costs. Larger packs (90‑tablet) are usually the cheapest per dose.

3. Check the pharmacy’s generic policy. Most chains will automatically dispense the PBS‑approved generic, but some independent stores might need a prompt.

4. Use the PBS online search tool. It lets you compare schedule prices for all metformin strengths and formulations, so you know exactly what to expect before you step up to the counter.

5. Stay up‑to‑date with PBS changes. The government reviews the schedule each year. A price that’s $6.80 today could drop to $5.80 next July, or new pack sizes could be added.

Common Questions About PBS Metformin

Is there a limit on how many months I can get at once? No. Your doctor can prescribe a 12‑month supply, and the pharmacy can dispense it in three‑month batches if you prefer.

What if I miss a dose? Missing a dose doesn’t affect the PBS price, but it can affect your blood sugar control. Talk to your doctor about a backup plan.

Can I get metformin without a prescription? No. In Australia it’s a prescription‑only medication, so you’ll always need a valid PBS script.

Understanding the PBS schedule makes the whole process feel less like a guessing game. Keep these points handy, ask your pharmacist if anything looks off, and you’ll stay in control of your diabetes and your wallet.