[mlbruns79]

I was diagnosed about 10 years ago as insulin resistant and also PCOS. I've taken care of my sugar on and off in the past. Was on metformin but side affects were horrible . Earlier this year I switched to glipizide. I haven't had insurance for a long time so I don't see my doctor regularly cause I can't afford to. Last week at work I realized my sugar was 375. Also haven't been checking it cause strips are very expensive. So called doctor and she upped my dose of glipizide to 3 times a day and sent me to er. So for a week and a half I have been monitoring what I eat (carb counting) and been checking my sugar (found some cheaper strips) and I still been averaging 250. At what point should I be on insulin? And does anybody know out of pocket cost for it?

[dano]

Insulin is generally used when nothing else seems to work. Insulin can be very expensive, especially the "designer" drugs such as Lantus, Levemir, Humalog, Novolog and Apidra, but there are much less expensive versions such as Novolin R (Regular) , a faster acting insulin, and the Novolin NPH, which is a longer acting insulin. These insulin's have worked fine for many people, for many years. Take a look at the Blood Sugar 101 thread. Pay particular attention to the "Diabetes on a Budget" section. Good luck with your control and management.

[nwalker]

Also check for drug companies patient assistance programs.

[wdowns]

Lily has assistance for humolog

[meghanleibas]

I'm not sure about cheaper oral diabetes meds, but yes the drug companies can help you get them at a lower cost. Look on their websites and ask the pharmacy you use or other pharmacies in your area for help with affordable medications. Paying for insulin and syringes without insurance will all depend on the types of insulin you use. I know in most states you can even by Regular insulin without a prescription (which is a bit scary if you ask me). It's the same for test strips and lancets most of the companies have a program to assist you with getting them for a lower cost. Also look into your county healthcare assistance programs (most counties have some form of an indigent care program which you may or may not qualify for). I don't want to sound like I'm preaching but taking care of your diabetes is so important, especially for prevent more complications in the long run (which will also cost more to take care of than taking care of your diabetes). I hope this helps!

[pohai]

I was without insurance for a long time as well. It took me getting diagnosed with CFH (congestive heart failure) through my local ER. The hospital helped me get on Medicaid (insurance assisted by the state for no charge). I get my Levemir and humolog at no charge. I was also able to get a meter that Medicaid approves of so I have no out of pocket for that as well. I'd suggest you look into Medicaid or what your state offers. Of course like some one else had mentioned, you may or may not qualify depending on your income. It doesn't hurt to try. Good luck.

[sbanda206]

Try lillytruassist.com for help with Insulin

[kcritcher]

I don't know what kind of horrible side effects you experienced with metformin, but I had horrible stomach cramping and diarrhea. The dr switched me to metformin extended release and that helped me sooooo much!!! I thank The Lord for that change!!! That at be a cheaper option than so e other meds.

[johanna_noguera]

Buy True Track monitor at your local CVS or Walgreens pharmacy. It's the cheapest monitor out there and strips buy them from Amazon.com. I can get from Amazon 100 strips for around $30. U can't beat that cost!!! Also diet is the key for diabetes control. Diet is not an option its a must, it is the lifestyle for a diabetic patient if u don't control your carbs your A1C will be out of good ranges! Please eat whole grains carbs. Once you get used to eat healthy food you can't go back to eating junk. Please educate yourself it's never to late to start. Good luck!

[serialmom12]

Try taking bitter melon, cinnamon and turmeric capsules. Natural herbs for lowering blood sugar.