The Rising Cost of Sugar Insulin in the 21st Century

The rising costs of insulin and diabetes care are significant problems globally and especially in the United States. Since insulin was introduced, the price has progressively increased as newer insulin analog preparations have been developed. There is an urgent need for solutions and reforms to lower the cost of insulin, especially for patients with high-deductible health insurance plans. Potential solutions to reduce the need for insulin in type 2 diabetes and thus reduce the cost include intensive lifestyle interventions, reducing food insecurity with meal delivery, and individualizing medication regimens to prescribe less expensive generic insulin whenever possible.