Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington state

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Janet and Izzy (GA)

Janet and Izzy (GA)

Member Since 2013
$297 for 5 pens. That's 60 per pen. They cannot run the Lantus Card without an NPI number. They will not sell a single pen.

Has anyone in Washington State or Portland Oregon area had any luck or better pricing on Lantus pens? How do they get aroun. NPI number?
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

Drive up to Canada where you don't need an Rx? (Requires passport)

Send Rx to Canadian pharmacy and do mail order?
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

Try a different pharmacy. One that will take the card. Call ahead and ask. Maybe even a hospital pharmacy, I've heard some will sell single pens.
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

Sorry, I'm in Portland area but don't use the pens. I bought the bottled Lantus at Albertson's pharmacy, and they matched the Costco price of $130. Seems like a lot, but considering I'll be able to use it 6 months (right?), I don't think that's too bad? I don't know - you said $297 for 5 pens. How long does a pen last?

Debbie
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

I'll be able to use it 6 months (right?)
Click to expand...

yes, as long as it's kept refrigerated (in the main part, not the door), it's not cloudy and doesn't have anything floating in it, it can be used for up to 6 months.

How long does a pen last?
Click to expand...

Depends on the dosage. The vial is 10ml (1000 units). Each pen is 3ml (300 units) so with the 5 pack of pens, you get a total of 15ml (1500 units).

Using the pens can be more cost effective than the vials since you can generally get every last drop of insulin out of the pens

A lot of members here have had some luck with Target Stores selling individual pens
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

Wow Debbie I paid 174 for a vial at my Costco.

I did call around...No one would sell me an individual pen and every said...MUST have an NPI number to use the loyalty card. Apparently Pharmacies here are sticklers for the rule. I physically went to Coscto and Walmart. I called Target, Walgreens, Rite Aid.

I ended up paying $281 for a box of pens. That's about $56 per pen. So you figure it actually costs more than a vial at $18.73 ml or 187.30 for 10ml BUT its actually less because you don't throw away any of it. I just hurts the wallet big time. It was good thing I actually had some money in savings. I can see why some people don't treat their cats :(
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

Interesting. The pharmacist at Albertson's made it a point to tell me she was giving me the Costco discount at $130.? Anyway, yes, it can be expensive, but our pets are so worth it! It sounds like those pens will last you quite awhile.

Debbie
 
Re: Left without my Lantus from Costco western Washington st

I'm thinking that with Obamacare, the NPI number has become a requirement for prescription discounts (for proof of eligibility). Since many vets don't have NPI numbers, this kinda leaves us in a quandary and further reduces our flexibility on getting those discounts. I'm going to do a bit more research on this (my brother is interning right now with a healthcare service provider that works on getting companies compliant with all the healthcare changes being caused by Obamacare). Hopefully there's some sort of workaround, but I doubt it. :sad:
 
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