Managing diabetes can have a significant impact on your finances. It requires ongoing medical care, medication, equipment, and lifestyle changes that can be expensive. The direct expenses of managing diabetes can add up quickly, and there can also be indirect financial impacts such as lost income, reduced earning potential, and increased healthcare costs.
To manage the financial impact of diabetes, it’s important to budget for medical expenses and prioritizes a healthy lifestyle that can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may involve seeking out affordable healthcare options, making dietary changes, and finding ways to stay physically active without breaking the bank. Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about cheaper alternative medications, your insurance coverage, and rights, and to advocate for yourself to ensure that you’re getting the care you need at a price you can afford. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to manage diabetes without sacrificing your financial stability. In this article, we will be looking at the cost of treatment with Jardiance and possible alternatives.
What is Jardiance?
Jardiance is a brand-name medication that contains the active ingredient empagliflozin. It is an oral medication used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar levels. Jardiance belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors, which work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, allowing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine.
In addition to lowering blood sugar levels, Jardiance has also been shown to have other beneficial effects, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes and reducing the risk of kidney disease progression in people with diabetes. Jardiance is available by prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food.
How Effective Is Jardiance?
Jardiance (empagliflozin) has been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In clinical trials, Jardiance has been shown to lower A1C (a measure of average blood sugar levels over time) by an average of 0.7% to 1.0%, depending on the dose used.
In addition to its blood sugar-lowering effects, Jardiance has also been shown to have other health benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Jardiance can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by up to 38%. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes by 35%. Additionally, Jardiance has been shown to slow the progression of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes.
Overall, Jardiance is an effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events and kidney disease progression. However, as with all medications, Jardiance may not be appropriate for everyone, and its use should be guided by a healthcare professional.
How Much Does Jardiance Cost?
The cost of Jardiance (empagliflozin) can vary depending on several factors, including the dose prescribed, the pharmacy where it is purchased, and the patient’s insurance coverage. Without insurance, the cost of a 30-day supply of Jardiance can range from approximately $500 to $600, depending on the dose.
However, many insurance plans do cover Jardiance as a preferred brand-name medication. Patients with insurance may be responsible for a copayment, which can range from $5 to $50 or more, depending on their specific insurance plan. Some patients may also be eligible for financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of their medication. The Jardiance Savings Card, for example, may help eligible patients pay as little as $0 per month for their medication.
It’s important for patients to discuss the cost of their medication with their healthcare provider and their insurance company to determine the most affordable options. Additionally, some pharmacies may offer discounts or price matching, so it may be worth shopping around to find the best price.
Is There A Cheaper Alternative To Jardiance?
Yes, there are several cheaper alternatives to Jardiance (empagliflozin) that are available to treat type 2 diabetes. Some examples of other medications that work in a similar way to Jardiance include:
1. Metformin: Metformin is a commonly prescribed oral medication for type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.
2. Canagliflozin: Canagliflozin is another SGLT2 inhibitor medication that is similar to Jardiance. It works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, which can help lower blood sugar levels.
3. Dapagliflozin: Dapagliflozin is another SGLT2 inhibitor medication that works by blocking glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. It has been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
4. Glimepiride: Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea medication that works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, which can help lower blood sugar levels.
It’s important to note that different medications work in different ways and may have different side effects and risks. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider to determine which medication is the most appropriate and affordable option for their individual needs. Additionally, patients may want to explore programs like generic medication options, drug assistance programs, or patient advocacy groups that may be able to provide cost savings on their diabetes medications.
Will I Experience Fewer Side Effects With Jardiance Alternatives?
It is difficult to say whether you will experience fewer side effects with a Jardiance alternative, as different medications can affect people differently. Some people may find that they tolerate Jardiance well and experience few side effects, while others may experience side effects that are intolerable or difficult to manage. Similarly, some people may find that they have fewer side effects with a Jardiance alternative, while others may experience more or different side effects.
When considering a Jardiance alternative, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential side effects of each medication and how they may affect you individually. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks of each medication and make an informed decision about which medication is the most appropriate and effective option for your needs.
It’s also important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking your medication, including the recommended dose, timing, and any precautions or interactions with other medications. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about your medication, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
What Are The Available Discount Programs For Jardiance?
There are several discount programs available for Jardiance that may help reduce the cost of the medication:
1. Jardiance Savings Card: Boehringer Ingelheim, the manufacturer of Jardiance, offers a savings card that can reduce the cost of Jardiance to as little as $10 per prescription fill. Eligible patients can download the card from the Jardiance website or ask their healthcare provider for more information.
2. Prescription Assistance Programs: There are various prescription assistance programs available that may offer discounts or financial assistance for Jardiance. Patients can check with the Partnership for Prescription Assistance or NeedyMeds to see if they qualify for any of their programs.
3. Medicare and Medicaid: Patients who are enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid may be able to get Jardiance at a reduced cost or for free, depending on their income and other eligibility criteria. Patients can check with their healthcare provider or the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for more information.
4. Pharmacy Discount Programs: Some pharmacies offer discount programs for prescription medications, including Jardiance. Patients can check with their local pharmacy to see if they have any programs available and compare prices at different pharmacies to find the best deal.
It’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or insurance provider to learn about the most up-to-date discount programs and options available for Jardiance.
