Costs vary widely among the different medications. Even the same medication can vary in price from store to store. Call around to find the best price for the one you take.

Generic versions of some sulfonylureas are available. These cost less than brand-name products and in general are reliable. There is now a generic Metformin (Glucophage).

To save you more money, ask your doctor to prescribe the largest tablet strength suitable for the dose you need. One 500-mg tablet, for example, often costs much less than two 250-mg tablets. You can then use a pill splitter (available at any pharmacy) to cut the larger tablet into halves or quarters to get the appropriate dose, if necessary.

Caution: Some extended-release drugs will not work properly if they are cut into pieces; check with your pharmacist or doctor before using a pill splitter.

Diabetes pills aren't perfect, but they can help to lower sugar levels for many people with type 2 diabetes. Keeping your blood glucose levels close to normal will help to reduce your risks for the long-term complications in the future and help you feel your best today.