My husband has been taking Metformin for about 2 years and GlipiZide for about 6 months. He has stopped taking them a few days ago because our insurance is too expensive to keep up with and we cannot afford to pay for them out of pocket. So far he feels okay but need to know how long those will stay in his system and possibly continue working.
Thanks

By stopping your diabetic medications you have signed a slow death sentence. No lie. Eventually your organs will shut down and your kidneys will fail and you may go blind. Blood pressure must be kept below 120/80 because the kidneys are working overtime in a diabetic.

To continue, cholesterol and triglycerides are high density energy storage systems, so that's what they are compromised too. The glucose that the body produces, if it's not used it's stored so tryglycerides and cholestoral go up.

The organ between his legs that he gets pleasure from will cease functioning. Often it will be the first effect.

Diabetes will continue to get worse.

I know the costs. I just put out $6000+ in medications for a 90 day supply. About $2500+ just in diabetes meds alone. Fortunately, this should be mostly re-imbursed retroactively. Got lucky. Waiting for the paperwork to be processed.

All foods with a high glycemic index must be severely limited. Raw sugar, pizza and white bread for starters.

I assume by your question that you are referring to how long you can expect to sustain the therapeutic benefit after ceasing dosage. You have probably passed that point.

There are several avenues that you should explore immediately. First would be to apply to any public program that might pay for the drugs (ex. Medicaid) Second, if your husband is a veteran he may qualify for VA benefits. It need not be service related. [If he is a vet, if you will provide his age and service dates, I can determine that for you quickly] The third avenue is the pharmaceutical manufacturer. Most have programs that involve free drugs for those who cannot afford them. For this resource you could speak with the pharmacist where you fill the prescription.

However, consistent with the advice provided to you above by KISS, you are confronting an emergency situation and need to seek assistance without delay. If there is anything I can do to assist to that end please post your needs.