Why Is Jardiance So Expensive? Exploring Costs and Affordable Alternatives for Type 2 Diabetes

THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The content included on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical condition and before starting any healthcare or medication regimen.

Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which help lower blood sugar levels by preventing glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. However, Jardiance is known for its high cost, making it difficult for many patients to afford. This article explores the reasons behind its high price and provides cost-effective alternatives for managing diabetes.

Discover the best prices on medications and get access to free instant savings coupons for your local pharmacy using our prescription discount card. No insurance or sign-up is necessary.

Why Is Jardiance So Expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high cost of Jardiance:

1. Research and Development (R&D) Costs – Pharmaceutical companies invest heavily in clinical trials and regulatory approvals. These expenses are passed on to consumers.

2. Patent Protection and Market Exclusivity – Jardiance is under patent protection, preventing cheaper generic versions from entering the market. Jardiance is expected to lose its market exclusivity in 2027, which could open the door for more affordable generic versions.

3. Marketing and Distribution Costs – Companies spend significant resources on advertising, which impacts drug pricing.

4. Insurance Coverage Variability – Out-of-pocket costs depend on individual insurance plans, with some patients paying more due to limited coverage.

Affordable Alternatives to Jardiance

If the cost of Jardiance is a concern, several alternative medications may provide similar benefits at a lower price:

1. Metformin

• First-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.

• Inexpensive and widely available in generic form.

• Works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.

2. Canagliflozin (Invokana)

• Another SGLT2 inhibitor similar to Jardiance.

• May have a lower price, depending on insurance and pharmacy discounts.

3. Dapagliflozin (Farxiga)

• Functions similarly to Jardiance by reducing blood sugar levels.

• Often more affordable through discount programs.

4. Bexagliflozin (Brenzavvy)

• A newer SGLT2 inhibitor that costs significantly less than Jardiance.

• Priced at around $59.95 per month in some cases.

5. Ertugliflozin (Steglatro)

• An SGLT2 inhibitor that works similarly but may be less expensive.

Effectiveness of Jardiance vs. Alternatives

All SGLT2 inhibitors work by blocking glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to lower blood sugar levels. While effectiveness varies between individuals, studies suggest that Jardiance, Invokana, and Farxiga provide similar benefits in diabetes management. Your doctor can determine the best option based on your medical history.

Side Effects Comparison

Like all medications, Jardiance and its alternatives come with potential side effects. Common ones include:

• Increased urination

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Low blood sugar (when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)

• Dehydration

Serious but rare side effects include ketoacidosis, kidney problems, and severe UTIs. Patients should discuss side effects with their doctor before switching medications.

Cost Comparison

• Jardiance: Typically costs $500+ per month without insurance.

• Generic Metformin: Less than $10 per month.

• Invokana & Farxiga: $200–$400 per month.

• Brenzavvy: $59.95 per month in some programs.

For patients looking to save, using a prescription discount card can significantly reduce the cost of Jardiance and its alternatives.

Choosing the Right Medication

When deciding between Jardiance and its alternatives, consider:

• Effectiveness – Does the drug control your blood sugar effectively?

• Cost – Is it within your budget?

• Side Effects – Do you experience tolerable side effects?

• Insurance Coverage – Is it covered under your plan?

Conclusion

Jardiance is an effective but expensive diabetes medication. Several alternatives, such as metformin, Invokana, and Farxiga, may offer similar benefits at a lower cost. Patients should explore options like prescription discount cards and manufacturer savings programs to reduce expenses. Always consult a healthcare provider before switching medications.

FAQs

Why is Jardiance so expensive?

Jardiance is costly due to research and development expenses, lack of generic alternatives, marketing costs, and insurance coverage variability.

Are there cheaper alternatives to Jardiance?

Yes, alternatives like metformin, Invokana, Farxiga, Brenzavvy, and Steglatro may offer more affordable options.

How can I reduce my prescription medication costs?

Using a prescription discount card, exploring manufacturer savings programs, and switching to a generic medication can help lower costs.

Can I get Jardiance at a lower cost?

Yes, using a prescription discount card or checking for manufacturer coupons may reduce the price of Jardiance.

Does insurance cover Jardiance?

Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance providers may cover Jardiance, while others may require a higher copay or prior authorization.