Do I Need a Prescription to Get Insulin Syringes?
Insulin, a necessity for diabetics to regulate their blood sugar levels, cannot be taken orally, as the body digests it before it can be sufficiently absorbed into the bloodstream. This led to the development of syringes specifically designed to administer the proper dose of insulin. Since most insulin must be administered at least once a day, diabetic patients need to purchase insulin syringes so their insulin injections may be performed at home.
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Types of Insulin Syringes
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There are numerous brands of insulin syringes that are disposable and that come in varying lengths and sizes. The gauge or size of the needle varies, with a higher gauge number indicating a thinner needle. The U-100 is the most familiar and commonly used syringe for insulin. The U-500 insulin dosage requires a tuberculin syringe. If U-40 insulin is required, a syringe is available, though it is not sold in the United States.
Prescription Requirements for Analog Insulin Syringe
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The need for a prescription to purchase both insulin and supplies, such as insulin syringes, depends on the type of insulin needed. There is a newer type of insulin, called analog insulin, that acts quicker and lasts longer. Humalog, Lantus, Novolog and Apidra are some common brands of analog insulin. All states require a doctor's prescription in order to buy any brand of analog insulin and the required syringes.
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Prescription Requirements for Older Insulin Syringes
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There are specific state prescription requirements for older types of insulin and syringes. Certain states do require a prescription to purchase insulin syringes with notes on each as applicable. For instance, when buying syringes in Alaska or Connecticut, you are limited to a 10-day supply. Delaware, Florida and Illinois only require a prescription if you're purchasing over 20 syringes. In Kansas, a prescription is required if syringes are purchased with insulin. Maine, Massachusetts and New Jersey may waive the prescription requirement when presented with a photo ID. Oklahoma, Texas and Utah may only require a prescription after 10:00 p.m.
Ordering Insulin Syringes Online
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Online ordering of insulin syringes is dependent on the state laws covering the type of insulin syringe. Most online ordering sites will provide information regarding this requirement and how to provide the prescription order from your doctor. This ensures that the order meets the state requirements and that you order the proper syringe for the type and dosage of insulin.
Reimbursement Options for Insulin Syringes
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Many people are not aware that insulin syringe costs may be a covered benefit and that some medical insurance plans will reimburse insulin syringe costs. Medicare has a section that covers prescription drug costs called Part D. This section also allows for syringe purchase reimbursement. Contact your medical insurance provider to learn whether the cost of your syringes are covered. For the most recent Medicare information, you are advised to do further research on the Medicare website.
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