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Approved substitutions to address shortage of metformin immediate-release tablets

28 May 2025

Metformin is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes.

To help manage this shortage, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a Serious Scarcity Substitution Instrument (SSSI). This allows pharmacists to supply an alternative brand, formulation, or strength of metformin where appropriate, without needing a new prescription from a doctor.

The SSSI will come into effect on 28 May 2025.

For more information about the shortage, how the SSSI works, and important considerations when substituting metformin, visit: About the shortage of metformin immediate-release tablets.

To learn more about SSSIs in general, see: Substituting scarce medicines and Serious Scarcity Substitution Instruments (SSSIs).

Source: Australian Government – Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)