Health Canada warns brand of glucose strips can give false blood sugar readings

TORONTO – Health Canada is warning Canadians that a brand of glucose test strips used by diabetics can give false blood sugar readings.

It says Abbott FreeStyle glucose test strips can give lower than accurate readings when used with specific testing devices.

False low blood sugar readings may prompt users to make improper treatment choices such as increasing their sugar intake or using less insulin than they actually need.

That in turn could lead to hyperglycemia or elevated blood sugar levels.

The three devices are: Abbott Diabetes Care’s FreeStyle Blood Glucose Meter and FreeStyle Mini Blood Glucose Meter as well as Insulet’s OmniPod Insulin Management System.

Health Canada says people who use the products can contact Abbott Diabetes Care or speak with their health-care professional if they have concerns.