OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to compare glucometers used for self-monitoring blood glucose in diabetic patients available at pharmacy stores by conducting a cost minimization analysis. METHODS A prospective cross-sectional study design was used. Data was collected from 28 pharmacies, 4 each from local chain pharmacies namely CVS, Walgreens, Wal-Mart, Kroger, Randall's (Safeway), Target, and HEB in the Houston area. Glucometer use resource cost was calculated from patient's perspective and included the price of glucometers, lancet, and strips from each pharmacy store. The annual effective cost for glucometer use was calculated by considering number of tests performed by patients per day multiplied by the resource cost. A literature search from January 1996 to February 2007 was used to obtain utilization patterns for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D andT2D, respectively). Data was entered in an excel sheet and a cost minimization analysis was performed. RESULTS Only 4 generic glucometers were identified in the 28 pharmacies, while there were 10 branded glucometers in each. The price of glucometers, lancets, and strips differed by location and brand. HEB store brand glucometer, In ControlTM, was the most cost effective generic glucometer (annual cost, T1D $500.9, T2D $172.2). By selecting the appropriate generic glucometer, patients could save annually $125.9 to $148.94 (T1D patients) and $15.25 to $54.4 (T2D patients), respectively. The most cost effective brand name glucometer was by FreestyleTM obtained at Wal-Mart stores (annual cost, T1D $823.7, T2D $307.1). Depending upon the appropriately selected brand name glucometer, patients could save annually $168.3 to $627.6 (T1D patients) and $61.0 to $226.6 (T2D patients), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The cost to use glucometers varied by location and brand selected. Patients could save cost associated with testing their blood glucose by selecting the right glucometer that fits their budget.