Every diabetic patient knows how expensive test strips are. They’re an essential part of managing the disease. The cost can vary widely, depending on where they’re purchased and if an individual has insurance. The brand of test strips plays a major role in costs, even though the devices are essentially manufactured in the same way and perform the same task.

The average cost of manufacturing a test strip is about 15 cents, yet they can cost as much as $2 each on the shelf. Manufacturers say the expense is due to research and development costs. Overall, test strips are uniformly accurate, though some may produce results that vary up or down by 10 to 20 percent, which is true of most strips.

The most expensive test strips include the following. It’s important for individuals to remember that the pharmacy used and the area of the country will impact costs.

• OneTouch Ultra Blue, $50. 90, 100 count
• One Touch Verio, $49.99, 90 count
• Accu-Chek, $44.99, 100 count
• FreeStyle Lite, $37.97, 100 count
• Contour Next, $30.13, 100 count

Expensive doesn’t mean better. There are plenty of store brand monitors and diabetic test strips that are just as accurate as name brands and they cost considerably less.

The cost of insulin continues to grab headlines across the U.S., while little attention is paid to test strips that are an ongoing month-to-month expense. Meters and test strips account for an estimated 27 percent of diabetes-related expenses. Glucose meters can provide service for up to 10 years, while meter manufacturers say people should replace their meter every five years.

Changing the brand of glucose meter and test strips can help reduce costs, or look into companies that buy test strips and resell them at a discount. In some instances, it’s cheaper to pay cash for test strips and bypass insurance completely.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Fruit is an essential part of a balanced diet and it provides a natural sweet treat. However, for those with diabetes, fruit can create glucose spikes that makes it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels. In addition to sugar, fruit contains carbohydrates that the body converts into sugar. Fruits should be eaten in moderation and it’s important to count carbs with fruit.

Some types of fruit will increase blood sugar levels faster than others and rate highly on the glycemic index. Some of those include bananas, cherries, figs, grapes, mangos, pineapples and watermelon. That doesn’t mean they should be eliminated from the diet. They just need to be consumed in moderation.

Dried fruits have the water content removed, thereby turning them into concentrated bites of sugar. Canned fruits packed in syrup should be avoided in favor of those packed in water. People with the disease should be careful when consuming fruit juices. They may seem like a good alternative to fruits, but they’re full of sugar.

Choose fruits that have a low glycemic index rating. They include fruits such as apples, blackberries, dates, pears, plums and strawberries. Keep in mind that darker fruits are also heart healthy. Fruits that have a medium rating on the glycemic index are kiwi, oranges, raisins and underripe bananas.

Eating fresh fruits also have other benefits. They contain antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause damage at the cellular level and are responsible for early signs of aging. Fresh fruit contains fiber that helps people feel fuller longer and can help in weight loss. Fruits are also beneficial for supporting the immune system.

The bottom line for diabetics is that fruit is an integral part of a healthy diet and has a variety of benefits for the entire body. People with the disease should strive to consume fruits that have a low glycemic index rating and consume them in moderation.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

People with diabetes rely on accurate readings from their glucose test strips and meters to effectively manage their disease. All test strips and meters must meet minimum standards for reliability and accuracy. However, a higher priced glucose test strip doesn’t automatically translate into greater accuracy.

A controversy over test strips has raged for years as some have been proven to be more accurate than others. However, it’s not just the test strips that have to be considered. The meters also figure highly into the equation. Some meters and test strips haven’t been re-evaluated or tested for accuracy since first being approved by the FDA.

The introduction of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that use a sticky sensor applied to the body and read by phones, is gaining popularity and widely used by many diabetics. However, the cost can be prohibitive and there are millions of people that are still pricking their fingers and using glucose test strips and monitors.

The Diabetes Technology Society, a non-profit organization based in California, compared 18 popular glucose meters and test strips for accuracy. The gold-standard is a meter and test strip combination that yields blood glucose readings within 15 percent of laboratory values of at least 95 percent. Only 6 passed the organization’s accuracy tests:

1. Bayer Contour Next, 100 percent
2. Roche Accu-Chek Aviva Plus, 98 percent
3. Walmart ReliOn Confirm from Arkray, 97 percent
4. CVS Advanced from Agamatrix 97 percent
5. Abbott FreeStyle Lite, 96 percent
6. Roche Accu-Chek SmartView, 95 percent

The cost of both the test strips and meter should factor into the decision as to which meter/test strip combination to purchase. Another consideration is if the meter and test strips are covered by insurance, along with any applicable co-pays. Use care when selecting the meter/test strip combo. There are multiple options from each brand and the cost of test strips will be an ongoing expense.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Testing your blood sugar is one of the essential daily tasks required to ensure your glucose levels aren’t spiking too high or dropping too low. Testing is a highly individualized requirement and frequency will rely on multiple factors.

Diabetic Control

If you’re managing your disease well, you won’t need to test as often and may be able to test as little as three or four times per day. If you’ve been newly diagnosed, there’s a good chance that you could be testing up to six times per day. Your doctor may also ask that you keep a record of what you eat and your activities. It will give the physician data to help create a treatment plan.

Insulin

You may be taking an oral diabetes medication, injecting insulin, or both. Taking insulin injections will require testing at least three times per day to ensure glucose levels aren’t too high or too low.

Physical Activity

Engaging in physical activity helps reduce insulin resistance and an active lifestyle may require more frequent testing. Insulin enables the body to use glucose for energy to fuel physical activities. Working out, playing sports, walking the dog and other activities can result in a dangerous drop in glucose levels without testing.

Type of Employment

Some jobs are more dangerous than others and represent a safety risk to yourself and others if your blood sugar fluctuates too widely. Occupations in which you drive, operate heavy equipment, fly a plane, or pilot a boat may not be an option, even under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Other Factors

There are a number of outside influences that can affect your blood sugar levels. Stress, illness, an injury or surgery will affect glucose levels and how often you test. Menstruation, menopause and even some prescription medications can increase your glucose levels and the need for more frequent testing.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Anyone with diabetes knows how expensive test strips can be, not to mention the myriad of other supplies that individuals need to monitor, manage and control their glucose levels. The costs of those items continue to escalate. The good news is that there are ways to save money on diabetic test strips.

Purchase From a Third-Party

Many third-party companies buy top quality test strips from individuals that have more than they require or no longer need them. The companies then sell them at a discount to diabetic clients that may be uninsured, underinsured, or whose insurance won’t supply as many as they need each month.

Drug/Coupon Cards

Drug manufacturers sometimes provide coupons for purchasing test strips at a discount. There are also phone apps that will compare prices across multiple pharmacies to find the lowest prices. Individuals can simply show their result at the designated pharmacy or print out a physical copy of the coupon from a home printer.

Clinics and Non-Profits

Some community clinics and health centers have taken the lead for their patients and established programs to distribute test strips or offer them at a discount. Some non-profit organizations are doing the same thing.

Mail Order and Rewards

There are some pharmacies that provide clients with a discount when they order their test strips – and medications – by mail rather than picking them up locally. Many pharmacies offer reward program points that can be redeemed for pharmacy items.

Assistance Programs

Several pharmaceutical companies offer assistance programs that provide free or discounted pricing. There will be specific program-based application forms to complete by the individual and their doctor. Some states also offer their own assistance programs in coordination with Medicare and insurance companies – each state is different.

Buy in Bulk

There will be a considerable monetary outlay initially, but the cost of each strip will be less.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Diabetes mellitus is frequently described as diabetes, it is considered as high blood glucose levels that result from the body’s difficulties to produce enough insulin or inability to utilize the insulin. Blood glucose levels can be checked through a glucose meter with test strips. There are multiple factors that play crucial roles in term of accuracy in readings:

• Compatibility of meters and strips

As mentioned above the blood glucose is a sensitive issue therefore the material we used to monitor diabetes is also sensitive. Each company works on the compatibility of meters and strips according to their own brands. Accuracy of results can be checked by multiple factors like manufacturing materials of different brands of both meter and strips, blood concentration, time exposure, the resistance of a material against environmental changes, expiry and sensitivity.

• Manufacturing materials of strips

Multinational companies are using highly sensitive materials but generally use less sensitive and diverse materials. So, meters and strips should be homogenized for more accurate results rather than different brands with various accuracy measuring issues.

• Blood concentration incompatibility of different models of meters and strips

It is a common observation that each meter shows the different results of different blood concentrations on different strips. It may be due to different models’ calibration or sensitivity and technology.

• Time duration of blood exposure to strip and meter

Various reports in America show that time duration is also an important factor for the reading of blood glucose measurement by meter and strips. Each strip gave different results on the same meter. It is due to the calibration of meter testing reading with respect to exposure of blood with the meter.

• Date of manufacturing and usage date also affects on both

Some literature denotes that the date of manufacturing of strips, moisture and heat also affects strips of different brands. Same acclimatized products of the same companies show more accurate results than different brands expired product strips with the same meters.

• Temperature-dependent meters

The meter reading is also influenced by different products at various temperatures. Some brands work more accurately at low temperatures and some at higher temperatures. Test strips show different results in different brands at different temperatures with the same meter.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

A primary concern for someone with diabetes is the recurring medical costs like test strips. Test strips are very crucial for diabetic patients to keep track of their blood sugar levels. It is expedient for them to carry out this test daily, and when you add up these costs, things can get expensive fast.

Test strips can be pretty expensive. Some of them cost up to $2 per piece.  This is why some people find it hard to dispose of their expired test strips. It can be quite frustrating to spend such an amount and then have to throw them away because they reached their expiration date.

Well, the conversation around using expired test strips is a debatable and interesting one. There are a lot of controversies as to whether or not it is okay to use expired test strips. I’m sure you might have considered using expired test strips to cut down costs.

How do test strips work?

Before deciding if you should be using an expired test strip or not, it is crucial to understand how these strips work. To you, the test strip might appear as a simple plastic. But, there is more to it than meets the eye. The test strip comprises layers that each play a significant role in giving you the test readings.

A liquid-attracting layer moves your blood into the chemistry strip (a little window on the strip). The chemistry strip comprises an enzyme that reacts with the glucose in your blood and pulls off the sugar electrons. The glucometer, the mediator on the chemistry strip, picks up the pulse and signals your reading.

Do Test Strips Really Expire?

Now that we know how test strips work, let’s get to the ultimate question. Do test strips really expire? Or is it just another ploy by drug industries to suck us dry?

The simple answer to this is yes! Test strips do expire over time, and that’s because the enzyme on the strip is living organisms, and they have a lifespan. Eventually, the enzymes will start to break down and die over time.

You should also know that different brands have different enzyme tolerance. As a result, some brands’ enzymes will break down faster or slower than others.

What are the risks associated with using expired test strips?

What’s the worst that could happen if you continue to use an expired test strip? As you can imagine, once the enzymes which are responsible for generating your reading begin to break down, the integrity of your blood sugar readings becomes compromised. And if your reading is inaccurate, you are setting yourself up for some severe health issues.

It is tempting to use expired test strips to save a few bucks, you should be cautious not to underestimate your safety concerns. Using an expired test strip isn’t worth the risk. The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) strongly warns against the use of expired test strips as they could give inaccurate results. Most experts also advise against using expired test strips.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Anyone that has diabetes will need to test their blood multiple times each day using test strips and a glucose meter. There are a wide variety of monitors from which to choose and selecting one can be confusing. Monitors encompass basic models to those with special features and they’re available in multiple price points.

When choosing a monitor, factor in the cost of test strips. Test strips aren’t interchangeable among different brands of monitors and will account for a significant amount of the cost of managing the disease. Some elements to consider when choosing a monitor include the following.

Insurance

Some insurance companies will cover the cost of any type of monitor, while others will only cover certain models. Insurers may pay the total cost of a monitor or only a portion and limit the number of test strips allowed each month. In some instances, it may be less expensive to pay for a monitor and/or test strips out of pocket.

Ease of Use

Make sure the face is large enough and the numbers are easy to read. The monitor should fit easily in the hand. Consider how large the drop of blood has to be for testing.

Types

Glucose monitors are available in traditional models that require a finger prick to test with a drop of blood, while other enable blood samples to be taken from other parts of the body. People can also choose a model that uses an adhesive sensor on the skin and sends continuous readings to a monitor, smartphone or smart watch.

Special Features

Meters are available with memory storage and retrieval that can help people track their glucose levels over time, along with models that will vocalize the readings out loud. Others will record the time and date of testing, the results and show trends over time. There are also monitors that allow individuals to download their readings and history to a cell phone or computer and send it to their physician.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Even with treatment by a physician and diabetes education, individuals may have difficulty knowing when to test their blood glucose levels and that can lead to dangerous dips and spikes. Unfortunately, some individuals don’t receive much guidance or instruction about testing, even from their doctors.

People will need to use diabetic test strips several times each day. The frequency that each individual tests will be impacted by factors that include their age, lifestyle, activity level, and foods consumed. The following are some of the best times to test.

Upon Rising in the Morning

Many diabetics eat a small, low-carb snack before bed to prevent glucose levels from falling too low. Others may encounter what’s known as the Dawn Effect where their glucose levels are too high. Testing tells individuals if changes in their insulin or snacks need to be made.

Before Each Meal

Testing before a meal will help individuals monitor their glucose levels and know how much insulin to administer before they eat.

1-2 Hours After a Meal

Glucose levels following a meal will peak 1-2 hours after a meal. Depending on what was consumed, individuals may need to administer additional insulin.

Before a Bedtime Snack

A small, low-carb snack before bed can help keep glucose levels stable throughout the night. Checking glucose levels will help individuals decide what to eat and how much.

Physical Activity

Test before beginning any exercise or workout routine to ensure glucose levels are sufficient to handle the activity. Exercise of any kind will decrease glucose levels as the body uses it for fuel. Individuals may need to test during their activities and eat a snack to prevent glucose levels from falling too low. Testing after exercise is essential to ascertain if another snack is required.

Feeling “Off”

There are distinct symptoms when glucose levels are too high or too low. Testing is in order anytime a diabetic experiences those telltale signs. The reading will tell individuals if they need to take insulin or eat something.

When Ill or Under Stress

Illness and stress affect the entire body and that includes glucose levels. When individuals are experiencing an illness or are under stress, it’s extremely important to monitor glucose levels closely as it will affect the management of the disease.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Anyone that’s ever needed to purchase diabetic supplies knows how expensive they are, even with insurance. From insulin to test strips, costs continue to escalate. Exactly why the cost of diabetic supplies is so expensive depends on who you ask.

According to manufacturers, the cost of diabetic supplies reflects the cost of the research and development that went into the products, and the ultimate value to patients. Those companies also cite the complexities of their supply chains for elevated prices along with a lengthy and expensive testing process required by the FDA.

The truth is somewhat different. Pharmaceutical companies make the products and there are no laws or restrictions on what they can set the price at. Additionally, the companies don’t have to disclose the formula they use to set those prices and there are no price controls in the U.S. like there are in other countries.

When it comes to diabetic supplies, it’s the Wild West and the sky is the limit on what pharmaceutical companies can charge. They’re under no obligation to negotiate prices or disclose discounts agreed upon with Pharmacy Benefit Managers. It often leaves diabetics with few options and no guarantee that what they can obtain is in line with their treatment or doctor’s orders.

Pharmaceutical companies can – and do – charge as much as the market will allow. It’s the nature of a capitalistic system. The result is that many individuals that are uninsured or uninsured are turning to older and cheaper types of insulin that are also less effective than newer options.

The exorbitant pricing doesn’t stop at insulin. Diabetic test strips are essential tools for monitoring and managing the disease. Test strips are incredible feats of engineering for measuring blood glucose levels. However, each manufacturer’s test strips will only work with the corresponding monitor – also made by the same pharmaceutical company.

The bottom line on costs for diabetic supplies is that the FDA has no power to regulate pharmaceutical companies and the federal government doesn’t want to get involved. Until comprehensive changes are implemented, individuals will continue to travel to Canada for insulin and make use of third-party test strip sellers in the U.S. for the life saving products they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!