Diabetes is a chronic disease with no cure, but with proper care and treatment, people can live long and healthy lives. Every day, nearly 2,000 individuals receive a diabetes diagnosis. In the U.S., about 17 million people have diabetes, and another 16 million have pre-diabetes—higher-than-normal blood sugar levels that aren’t yet diabetes.
Buying Diabetes Supplies Online
For those managing diabetes, supplies are essential for daily care. Purchasing these items online can save time and money, but it’s important to choose a reputable supplier.
What to Look for When Buying Online:
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A customer service phone number, ideally a 24-hour toll-free hotline.
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Access to a pharmacist for questions, which shows the company is legitimate.
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Clear shipping charges to avoid surprises on your bill.
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A physical address, not just a P.O. box, to ensure reliability.
Common Diabetes Supplies:
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Insulin Cases: Protect insulin from heat and cold, especially when traveling.
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Blood Glucose Monitors: Used to check blood sugar levels regularly. Healthy targets are below 120 mg/dL before meals and below 180 mg/dL after meals.
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Blood Pressure Monitors: Important since high blood pressure affects 20-60% of people with diabetes, increasing risks of eye, kidney, and heart diseases.
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Diabetes Software: Helps track and share health data with your care team.
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Glucose Tablets and Gels: Essential for treating low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) quickly. Glucose gels act faster and should be used immediately if severe symptoms occur.
Costs and Competition:
Diabetes supplies—pills, insulin, syringes, test strips, and more—can be costly and add up monthly. Fortunately, competition among suppliers helps keep prices competitive, especially for items like glucose monitors and testing strips.
