Out of medicine and no money, what should I do?

Question

I am diabetic and take Lantus, which costs about $125 per vial (which last me a little more than one week). Chances are my sugar will shoot up to between 250 and 350 almost all of the time when I'm not taking Lantus (normal is like 70-110). I do not have insurance. I also cannot afford to purchase this right now. I have applied for patient assistance programs and anticipate getting them, but I only have one day left of medicine. What should I do?

Answer 1

Does your community have a free clinic? My county doesn't, but the next one over does. Patients can go in and talk to the doctors there and get the supplies they need.

Have you priced Lantus at the big discount stores? It is a lot cheaper there.

When I changed types of insulin, I took the stuff I was no longer using (unopened vials only) to the free clinic. They were very happy to get the insulin.

Answer 2

Ask your local pharmacist if they have any help or public aide that is available short term.

Have you thought about asking for Novolin L or Humulin L? These are long acting and at LEAST half the price.

Also, call your doctor. You'd be surprised how many have samples you can have!

Good luck and God bless.

Answer 3

I would check with your local city or county health department clinic. The role of the health department is to make sure that its citizens are achieving optimum health. This includes preventative health. They may have some resources or be able to get you on some sort of payment plan to help you until the other funding comes through. Another option would be to call the customer service number at the drug company's assistance program and explain your situtaion and see if they won't send you one dose to get you through the next week. Good luck

Answer 4

The county hospital has programs for people with no insurance.

Answer 5

Go to A Hospital and Ask If You COuld Have SOme medicine WHile you wait to buy more ....

Answer 6

I know how you feel. talk to your dr and tell them you are almost out.  they always get samples of meds.  i is rediculous the price of meds.  i take 2 different insulins,lantus and Novolog plus 2000 mg of pills a day.plus all my other meds.  and then if something happens to us it is our fault for not taking care of our selves,which is not the case we just can not afford what we need.   Also try calling the company,maybe they can help.if you can email me,i can ship you a few bottles that i have.  if that would help.   i know how hard it is manage..   but please email me and i hope it will be possible to ship....