The FDA has warned US diabetes patients to beware of fake test strips used in blood glucose monitoring. They are counterfeit strips for use with several models of LifeScan Inc.’s OneTouch brand of blood glucose monitors. LifeScan belongs to Johnson & Johnson, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
These fake test strips do not give accurate blood glucose values. Patients using them could be taking too much or too little insulin as a result, and could consequently become seriously ill – even fatally ill. The FDA urges patients with diabetes who have them to replace them immediately and let their doctors know.
The fake products are:
Counterfeit One Touch Basic/Profile Test Strips
— Lot Numbers 272894A, 2619932 or 2606340
— Multiple Languages- English, Greek and Portuguese text on the outer carton
— Limited to 50-Count One Touch (Basic/Profile) Test Strip packages
Counterfeit One Touch Ultra Test Strips
— Lot Number 2691191
— Multiple Languages- English and French text on the outer carton
— Limited to 50-Count One Touch Ultra Test Strip packages
The FDA says it does not know how many of the counterfeit strips are out on the market. Makers of the real strips do not know either. More information can be found at www.GenuineOneTouch.com or call LifeScan at (866) 621-4855.
Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today