Soon, I’m planning a trip to India for a year or so, but I don’t know what I should do with the insulin treatment. Since I have insurance only in Israel, I need to buy the insulin before I leave. Is there any way I can buy it in India at a reduced cost? I’m really in a bind, and I have to know what other people with diabetes do when they wish to go on a long trip.

Although most insulins and other diabetes supplies are now available in India, it would probably be better for you to bring a large supply with you and have someone from Israel send you more from time to time. This way you are sure to keep taking exactly what you are used to taking.

JS
Additional comments from Dr. Donough O’Brien:

There is no problem in obtaining conventional insulins in major cities in India. The cost though would presumably not be covered by Israeli insurance. I think you need to make some detailed plans to fit your itinerary and perhaps to arrange at least one medical contact.

DOB
Additional comments from Dr. Stuart Brink:

Packing enough insulin, blood glucose strips, lancets, syringes for even a year does not take much space, so this is a good option if you can save some money. India should have most of these supplies available but I do not know the exact cost. Travel with these supplies with you in a carry-on bag or backpack so that they do not get lost, frozen or heated excessively. You will need something to keep insulin vials cool to avoid the extremes of temperatures that occur in some parts of India. If you have friends or colleagues in India with whom you can ask some of these questions, they can find out exact costs, pharmacy availability, etc. Your own diabetes team may also have some of these answers. many people travel quite successfully with diabetes so you should not have too much problem.

SB