Thursday, June 10, 2021

New Insulin and Other Happenings

I'm so glad to report that I finally got my new insulin, Novolog FlexPen, this week.  I can tell already that my numbers are lower. The FlexPen is a common insulin for diabetics. I just couldn't afford both insulins I needed to take.  Type 1s like me take a slow-release in the morning and a fast-release with each meal.  My sweet little doctor worked with the manufacturer and medicare to get me a good price.  It took six months but Yahoo anyway. The wait was worth it.  

My Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is also on order.  Again it is the doctor, Dexcom, Medicare, and me all shuffling paperwork around. Since I've got that supplemental insurance, it should be free.  Info from Dexcom.  

A small, wearable sensor and transmitter sends your glucose numbers to a smart device or receiver every 5 minutes. It's easy to wear and easy to use.


I'm worried about what supplemental supplies are needed and, more importantly, their cost.  I'll cross that bridge when I get there.  The insulin pump is still in my future. 

Also in the medical/non-medical happenings is that I have been taking Elderberry Gummies for the last two months.  

The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They could help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms. WebmdSep 21, 2020 


Elderberry may lower blood sugar levels. If you are also taking drugs for diabetes, taking elderberry may increase your risk of developing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.Feb 2, 2016 Broadlawns 

Call me crazy but I've been feeling pretty good lately (aside from one bad slump) and I have to wonder how much the Elderberry has affected me.  I've never been a vitamin taker. 

Old school vitamins used to hurt my stomach but the doctor got me started on Melatonin for my sleep problems.  Let me tell you, Gummies are the only way to go.  So at night, I take two Melatonin Gummies and two Elderberry Gummies and I've been waking up feeling great.  As far as the effect of the Melatonin (which I also never believed in before) on my sleep, I seem to be getting sleepy a couple of hours after the Melatonin but even better, I am staying asleep most of the night.  Now if they would only make Allergy Gummies.  Hahaha.

That's enough for now.  More later ....


9 comments:

  1. I think I'll talk to my doc about the melatonin gummies. I just don't sleep well anymore. Glad you are feeling so much better.

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  2. what do the elderberry gummies do for you? I've had melatonin and it didn't help me sleep but maybe I should try the gummies. I can fall asleep - it's staying asleep that is my issue.
    And congrats on the FlexPen. Great doctor to help you with this. But in all honesty this should never occur. We shouldn't have to pay this much for our medications!

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  3. It's good to hear that drug companies are willing to work with doctors and patients. It just does not seem right that products that can improve the quality of life for those with medical needs are so out of range for far too many.

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  4. Your excitement comes through loud and clear. Glad you are making some positive changes that are working for you.

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  5. That is SUPER news! Glad your doctor is going to bat for you!

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  6. Sounds like you are getting diabetes under control and it isn't making you mortgage the farm. Medicine prices are ridiculous.
    Hum, the melatonin gummies sound more fun to take than the sublingual liquid. Thanks. Will check that out.

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  7. Good morning, Barbara! So glad you got the insulin you've been wanting and also the continuous read monitor. If you're on Instagram there's a T1 girl there who you might want to follow. Her address is https://www.instagram.com/keto_t1d_jess/ She wears a Dexcom and shows it often. She loves it!

    Interesting about your gummy experiments! May give those a try!

    So glad you're back to posting! Happy Friday!

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  8. Great news, Barbara. I know of someone with an insulin pump and it’s working great for her.

    Your doctor sounds like a treasure. A keeper for sure.

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  9. Good morning. I'm so glad to hear about your insulin updates; this sounds exciting!
    I occasionally take melatonin but haven't noticed anything major.
    I AM a vitamin junkie, but I only take the whole food type and they never mess with my belly. I'm going to look into the elderberries too.

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