Question: I can no longer afford Lantus diabetes insulin or Januvia. Do you have any suggestions for other diabetes medications? I take metformin and asked the pharmacist about the prices of other insulin injections. It seems that are all are out of my price range. I am not low income, so am not eligible for government programs.

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Januvia is very expensive and there are far more affordable alternatives for you that can produce better results. Lantus is more expensive but also much more convenient since you only need to take it once a day.

Insulin is generally inexpensive and available in many forms. Your metformin is available from local pharmacy outlets often at very low or even no cost, so check around at various pharmacies about their program offers.

You probably need to consult a different pharmacist or go to a local hospital-based diabetic educator for other recommendations on more affordable care for you.

Your private physician may also be able to direct you.