Finding affordable medication is crucial for the millions of Americans managing type 2 diabetes. With Jardiance retail costs reaching $876 for a 30-day supply, many patients struggle to afford this important medication. This guide reveals eight proven strategies to find the cheapest place to buy Jardiance and reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or on a fixed income, these methods can help you access empagliflozin at prices you can afford. From bulk purchases to verified online Canadian pharmacies, we’ll explore every legitimate option to save money on your Jardiance prescription.
What Is Jardiance (Empagliflozin)?
Jardiance is the brand name for empagliflozin, a prescription medication belonging to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Jardiance for treating type 2 diabetes in adults, and it has since received additional approvals for heart failure and chronic kidney disease.
As an SGLT2 inhibitor, Jardiance works by blocking the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 protein in the kidneys. This action prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream, allowing excess sugar to be eliminated through urine. This mechanism helps lower blood sugar levels while also providing cardiovascular and kidney protection benefits.
Jardiance is manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim in partnership with Eli Lilly and Company. The medication is available in three strengths: 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg tablets, typically taken once daily in the morning.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 38.4 million Americans have diabetes, representing 11.6% of the U.S. population. This widespread condition creates enormous demand for affordable diabetes medications like Jardiance.
Why Jardiance Prices Vary
Understanding why Jardiance prices fluctuate helps you make informed decisions about where to purchase your medication. Several key factors influence the cost you’ll pay:
- Insurance Coverage and Formularies: Your insurance plan’s formulary determines whether Jardiance is covered and at what tier. Preferred medications typically have lower copays, while non-preferred drugs may require higher out-of-pocket costs or prior authorization.
- Pharmacy Markups: Different pharmacies set different prices for the same medication. Chain pharmacies, independent pharmacies, and mail-order services each have their own pricing strategies and overhead costs that affect final prices.
- Manufacturer Pricing: Boehringer Ingelheim sets the list price for Jardiance. According to AARP data, Jardiance list prices rose 30.5% between 2018 and 2023, reflecting the broader trend of brand-name drug inflation.
- Geographic Location: Prescription costs can vary significantly by state and region due to local market conditions, competition levels, and state regulations.
- Supply Chain Costs: Distribution costs, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) fees, and rebate structures all contribute to the final price patients pay at the pharmacy counter.
The American Diabetes Association reports that total U.S. diabetes costs reached $412.9 billion in 2022, highlighting the enormous financial burden patients face. Additionally, retail prescription spending hit $429.8 billion in 2022, representing 9.5% of total healthcare costs according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
6 Proven Ways to Save on Jardiance
1. Prescription Discount Websites & Coupons
Several reputable prescription discount services can help reduce Jardiance costs:
Various prescription discount websites exist that claim to offer Jardiance coupons for use at participating pharmacies. These platforms typically allow price comparisons across different locations and provide digital discount cards.
While some discount services advertise reducing costs from the average retail price of $876.24 for 30 25mg tablets to around $528, the actual savings can vary significantly by location and pharmacy participation. Some services operate as both discount platforms and mail-order pharmacies.
However, these discount programs have several limitations:
- Savings may not be as substantial as advertised
- Not all pharmacies accept every discount service
- Some programs require membership fees or personal information sharing
- Discounts may not combine with insurance benefits
- Price comparisons can be time-consuming and confusing
Before relying on prescription discount services, verify that your chosen pharmacy accepts the specific program and compare the final cost against other money-saving options available to you.
2. Comparing Local and Mail-Order Pharmacies
Pharmacy choice significantly impacts your Jardiance costs. Here’s how different pharmacy types typically compare:
- Chain Pharmacies often have standardized pricing but may offer loyalty programs or store-specific discounts that can reduce costs.
- Independent Pharmacies sometimes provide more competitive pricing and personalized service. They may be more willing to negotiate prices or match competitor offers.
- Mail-Order Pharmacies frequently offer lower prices, especially for 90-day supplies. Many insurance plans incentivize mail-order prescriptions with reduced copays.
- Warehouse Stores often provide significant savings on prescription medications, even for non-members in some cases.
- Grocery Store Pharmacies may offer additional discounts when combined with store loyalty programs.
- Canadian mail-order pharmacies like DoctorSolve.com can help you save up to 90% in some cases as compared to your local pharmacies.
3. Insurance Formulary & Mail-Order Options
Maximizing your insurance benefits requires understanding your plan’s formulary and preferred networks:
Formulary Navigation
Contact your insurance company to verify Jardiance coverage and identify any prior authorization requirements. Some plans may prefer alternative SGLT2 inhibitors with lower copays.
Mail-Order Benefits
Most people with Medicare Part D pay about $20 per month for Jardiance through their plan’s preferred mail-order pharmacy. Mail-order often provides 90-day supplies at reduced per-dose costs.
Step Therapy
Some insurers require trying less expensive alternatives before covering Jardiance. Work with your doctor to document medical necessity if generic alternatives haven’t been effective.
Appeals Process
If your insurance denies coverage, you may have the right to appeal. Your healthcare provider can submit additional documentation supporting Jardiance’s medical necessity.
4. Doctor & Pharmacist Negotiation Tips
Healthcare providers often have resources to help reduce medication costs:
Sample Requests
Ask your doctor if they have Jardiance samples available. Pharmaceutical representatives regularly provide samples to help patients start new medications or bridge coverage gaps.
Alternative Discussions
Discuss other SGLT2 inhibitors that might be more affordable with your insurance plan. While medications in this class have similar mechanisms, formulary placement and costs can differ significantly.
Pharmacist Consultation
Pharmacists can often suggest cost-saving strategies, including:
- Generic substitution when available
- Therapeutic alternatives with better insurance coverage
- Discount programs specific to their pharmacy
- Mail-order options through your insurance
Prior Authorization Support
Healthcare providers can complete prior authorization paperwork to help ensure insurance coverage for Jardiance when medically necessary.
5. 90-Day Supply vs. 30-Day Supply Cost Comparison
Extended supplies typically offer better value:
Cost Per Dose Savings
The cost for Jardiance 25 mg oral tablet is around $327 for a supply of 15 tablets, which translates to approximately $654 for a 30-day supply. Many pharmacies offer reduced per-tablet costs for 90-day supplies.
Insurance Benefits
Most insurance plans provide lower copays for 90-day supplies ordered through mail-order pharmacies compared to monthly refills at retail locations.
Convenience Factor
Longer supplies reduce pharmacy trips and ensure you don’t run out of medication, maintaining consistent diabetes management.
Storage Considerations
Ensure proper medication storage when purchasing larger quantities. Store Jardiance at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
6. Verified Online & Canadian Pharmacies
Online Canadian pharmacies can offer significant savings when used safely:
Canadian Pharmacy Options
Many Americans purchase medications from Canadian pharmacies for substantial savings. Look for Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA) certification when considering this option.
Safety Considerations
According to CDC National Center for Health Statistics data, 4.5% of adults have used cross-border or online pharmacies to save money on prescriptions. However, ensure any online pharmacy requires valid prescriptions and is properly licensed.
Red Flags to Avoid
Never purchase from pharmacies that don’t require prescriptions, offer unusually low prices, or lack proper licensing information.
When Will a Generic Jardiance Be Available?
Generic empagliflozin availability depends on patent expiration and FDA approval processes:
Patent Timeline
Boehringer Ingelheim holds patent protection for Jardiance that includes drug exclusivity until February 24, 2025. The NCE-1 date is estimated to be December 20, 2025, which represents the earliest point when generic competition might begin.
FDA Approval Process
Even after patent expiration, generic manufacturers must complete FDA approval processes, which can take additional months or years.
Market Entry
Industry analysts expect Jardiance patent expiration in 2025, but generic availability may be longer due to potential patent extensions.
Cost Impact
Generic medications typically cost 80-90% less than brand-name versions, potentially reducing Jardiance costs from hundreds of dollars to under $50 per month.
Medicare Price Negotiations
Medicare announced a negotiated price of $197 for Jardiance, down from the $573 list price, effective in 2026 for Medicare beneficiaries.
Safety, Splitting Pills & Hydration Tips
Important safety considerations for Jardiance users:
Tablet Splitting
Jardiance tablets are not scored and should not be split. The medication is formulated for once-daily dosing at specific strengths. Consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider about proper dosing rather than attempting to split tablets.
Hydration Requirements
Jardiance increases urination as part of its mechanism of action. Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps prevent dizziness, lightheadedness, and dehydration-related side effects.
Side Effect Management
Common side effects include urinary tract infections, genital infections, and increased urination. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent symptoms or signs of serious side effects like ketoacidosis.
Drug Interactions
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take, as Jardiance can interact with certain drugs, particularly diuretics and insulin.
FAQs
What diabetic drugs are similar to Jardiance?
Other SGLT2 inhibitors work similarly to Jardiance by blocking glucose reabsorption in the kidneys:
- Invokana (canagliflozin) – The first FDA-approved SGLT2 inhibitor
- Farxiga (dapagliflozin) – Also approved for heart failure and chronic kidney disease
- Brenzavvy (bexagliflozin) – A newer SGLT2 inhibitor option
All SGLT2 inhibitors share the same basic mechanism but may have different side effect profiles, dosing schedules, and insurance coverage patterns. Your healthcare provider can help determine which option offers the best combination of effectiveness and affordability for your situation.
Should you drink lots of water when taking Jardiance?
Yes, maintaining proper hydration is important when taking Jardiance. The medication increases glucose elimination through urine, which can lead to increased urination and potential dehydration. Drink adequate water throughout the day to prevent dizziness, lightheadedness, and dehydration. However, consult your healthcare provider about appropriate fluid intake, especially if you have heart failure or kidney problems that require fluid restrictions. Signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, and dizziness when standing. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent dehydration symptoms.
Can you split Jardiance in half?
No, Jardiance tablets should not be split. The tablets are unscored and not designed for splitting. The medication is formulated for specific dosing strengths (10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg) taken once daily. Splitting tablets can result in uneven doses and potentially reduce medication effectiveness. If you’re concerned about dosing or costs, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider about appropriate alternatives rather than attempting to modify the tablets. Your healthcare provider can adjust your prescription to a different strength if needed or explore alternative medications that might better fit your dosing requirements.
When does Jardiance go off patent?
Jardiance patent protection extends until February 24, 2025, though some patents may have different expiration dates. The NCE-1 exclusivity date is estimated to be December 20, 2025. Multiple patents may protect different aspects of the medication, including the active ingredient, formulation, and specific uses. Some patents may extend beyond 2025, potentially delaying generic competition. Patent extensions are possible based on regulatory review times and other factors, which could push generic availability further into the future.
When will a generic for Jardiance be available?
The soonest Jardiance generic will be available in the U.S. is 2025, but it’s likely to be longer due to the complexity of patent protections and FDA approval processes. Generic manufacturers must wait for patent expiration and complete their own FDA approval processes, including demonstrating bioequivalence to the brand-name medication. This process typically takes 12-18 months after patent expiration. Market factors, patent litigation, and potential settlements between brand and generic manufacturers can also influence generic launch timing.
How can I get Jardiance cheaper?
The most effective approach is to focus on strategies that provide substantial, reliable savings:
- Explore Canadian online pharmacy options – Often provide the most significant cost reductions through government-regulated pricing.
- Compare local pharmacy prices – Call multiple pharmacies to find the best cash price in your area.
- Optimize insurance benefits – Use preferred networks and mail-order options when available.
- Consider 90-day supplies – Often provide better per-dose pricing.
- Explore state assistance programs – SPAPs may provide additional support for eligible residents.
- Avoid unreliable discount services – Many have limitations, fees, or savings that don’t justify the complexity.
Focus on sustainable, long-term solutions rather than programs with restrictive eligibility requirements or complex application processes that may not provide consistent access to affordable medication.
Conclusion
Finding affordable Jardiance requires a multi-faceted approach combining manufacturer programs, prescription discounts, pharmacy comparisons, and insurance optimization. With the medication’s high retail cost, these strategies can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses from hundreds of dollars to as little as $10-20 per month in some cases. Start with manufacturer assistance programs and prescription discount services, which often provide immediate savings. Compare prices across different pharmacy types and consider mail-order options for additional savings. Work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re maximizing all available benefits and assistance programs. While generic empagliflozin availability remains uncertain until at least 2025, current cost-saving strategies can make this important diabetes medication more affordable today. Remember that consistent medication adherence is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes effectively, so don’t let cost barriers prevent you from taking prescribed medications.For a reliable source of affordable Jardiance, consider exploring verified online pharmacy options. Many Americans have found significant savings by choosing to buy Jardiance through reputable online pharmacies that offer competitive pricing and convenient home delivery.
References
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American Diabetes Association. (2023). Economic Costs of Diabetes in the U.S. in 2022.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2023). National Health Expenditure Data.
AARP Public Policy Institute. (2023). Rx Price Watch Report.
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. (2022). Patient Assistance Programs Report.
National Center for Health Statistics. (2023). Health, United States, 2022.
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U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024). Orange Book: Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations.
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