Warning over faulty diabetes test strips

DIABETES patients are being warned over faulty glucose test strips that are vital to help them manage their blood sugar levels.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency said it is estimated more than 260,000 Accu-Chek Aviva and Accu-Chek Performa packs are affected.

The strips absorb a drop of blood and are used by diabetics for blood glucose testing.

The aim of diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels as normal as possible.

Dan Howarth, of Diabetes UK, said inaccurate readings could mean patients over or under-dose with insulin, which can cause problems with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia.

Worried

MHRA said the products affected are Accu-Chek Aviva in packs of 50 strips.

These include lot numbers: 497392, 497391, 496915, 496809, 496802 and 496807, and packs of 10 strips with lot numbers 497344 and 497392.

Accu-Chek Performa in packs of 10 strips with lot numbers 476597 and 476646 are also affected.

Anyone with these strips is advised to seek alternative testing methods and return affected lots to their pharmacy or shop.

John Wilkinson, MHRA director of medical devices, said: “It is important people check their test strips.

“If you’re worried about your readings, we recommend speaking to your GP or a pharmacist as soon as possible.”