There are 30 million diabetics in the United States and Carlos Salinas from the De Leon pharmacy says the problem is getting worse.
“We have a rampant insulin dependent diabetes situation in our society,” said Salinas.
And its even worse in Corpus Christi.
“Corpus Christi has a high disproportionate level population of diabetics,” said Salinas
To compound matters, insulin prices are getting out of hand, but there are some practical reasons why.
“The industry has to retool. Getting away from animal sourced insulin like pork and beef,” said Salinas
Now, the industry is producing synthetic insulin, which is more expensive to make.
Another change is in the way the patient takes the insulin. it’s much easier now.
“Changing the delivery system changing from a vile that you draw out the drug from to a pen which is easier to dial up a dose,” said Salinas
But all that doesn’t do anything to lower the price. it’s skyrocketing.
“In an effort to save money, people are actually buying their insulin on Craigslist. if you think i’m kidding, Corpus Christi’s Craigslist has plenty for sale.
Congress is aware of the high price of insulin; but for now, it doesn’t look like prices will come down anytime soon.
“It’s getting to a point where prices are too high. yes sir, too high,” concluded Salinas.
