Abbott Labs recalls blood glucose meters over inaccurate memory for dangerously high readings

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. – Abbott Laboratories is recalling its FreeStyle InsuLinx Blood Glucose Meters after finding that they display and store incorrect test results for dangerously high blood sugar levels.

The Abbott Park, Ill., company says the meters will display and store readings for blood glucose levels of 1,024 milligrams per decilitre or higher at much lower levels. That’s an extremely high and rare level that requires immediate medical attention.

The inaccurate readings can lead to a delay in identifying the problem or incorrect treatment. Abbott says that can lead to serious injury or death.

Abbott says customers with the meter should contact its diabetes care customer service or download a software update that resolves the issue.

Johnson & Johnson announced a similar recall last month for several types of its blood glucose meters.