Clearly, reputable test strip manufacturers, such as FreeStyle, OneTouch, and TRUEMetrix, need to err on the side of caution when labeling their products. How accurate is that test strip expiration date? Your test strips may look like nothing more than small slivers of plastic however, the reality is they are highly sensitive and complex medical tools. As you can imagine, once this breakdown happens it can compromise the integrity of blood sugar readings. This means they can’t last forever and will eventually break down over time. The thing is these enzymes are living organisms.
![accu-chek test strips expiration accu-chek test strips expiration](https://5.imimg.com/data5/AO/AG/MY-28117894/accu-chek-500x500.jpg)
Basically, the end of each test strip it is coated with specific proteins that react with the glucose in your blood and transform it into an electrical current which then allows the glucose meter to assess the concentration of blood sugar in the sample. The reason why is that diabetic test strips rely on live enzymes to measure blood sugar levels. Diabetic test strips do expire over time. The answer to this question is absolutely yes. Do blood glucose test strips really expire? Do test strips really expire? Can I use expired test strips safely? Is big Pharma just trying to sell me more product? If you’ve ever wondered about using expired diabetic test strips, this post will provide some important and honest answers.īefore going any further, we will tell you up front that using expired test strips is not a good idea. One of the big debates in this area revolves around the expiration of test strips. So, it’s understandable that many people with diabetes are looking for ways to stretch their dollars. In fact, some diabetic test strips can cost upwards of two bucks a piece when purchased at pharmacy or standard retailer. While the process is simple enough, going through a number of test strips each day can get quite expensive. Most people still do this using a glucose meter and diabetic test strips. If your meter isn't working properly, contact the manufacturer of your meter and test strips.By Diabetic Warehouse 0 comment(s) Articles Is it Okay to Use Expired Diabetic Test StripsĪs someone living with diabetes, testing your blood sugar each day is an important part of life. Results that are within 15 percent of the lab reading are considered accurate. Then compare your meter's reading with the lab results. Check your blood sugar level with your meter at the same time that blood is drawn for lab tests. Take the blood glucose monitor along when you visit your doctor or have an appointment for lab work. You generally should also use liquid control solutions if you drop your blood glucose meter, or whenever you get unusual results. Use liquid control solutions every time you open a new container of test strips, and occasionally as you use them. These solutions usually come with your monitor and are available at most drugstores and pharmacies. Follow your normal blood-testing procedure, but use a liquid control solution instead of blood. The following quality control tests can assure you that your meter is working properly: If you are dehydrated or your red blood cell count is low (anemia), your test results may be less accurate.īlood glucose monitor quality control tests The amount of red blood cells in your blood Blood samples from alternate sites aren't as accurate as fingertip samples when your blood sugar level is rising or falling quickly. If you're using a site other than your fingertip and you think the reading is wrong, test again using blood from a fingertip.
![accu-chek test strips expiration accu-chek test strips expiration](https://images.healthcarei.biz/50-accu-chek-guide-test-strips-expire.jpg)
Don't add more blood to the test strip after the first drop is applied. Touch a generous drop of blood to the test strip. Not enough blood applied to the test strip
#Accu chek test strips expiration code#
Be sure the code number in the device matches the code number on the test strip container.įully insert the test strip into the monitor. Some meters must be coded to each container of test strips. Wash and dry your hands and the testing site thoroughly before pricking your skin.
#Accu chek test strips expiration skin#
Keep your glucose meter and test strips at room temperature.Īlcohol, dirt or other substances on your skin Be sure the strips are meant for your specific glucose meter.
![accu-chek test strips expiration accu-chek test strips expiration](https://www.accu-chek.com/sites/g/files/iut341/f/guide-open-vial2.png)
![accu-chek test strips expiration accu-chek test strips expiration](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1702/1747/products/smartview_test_strips_100ct_short_date_1_month.jpg)
Store strips in their sealed container keep them away from heat, moisture and humidity. Throw out damaged or outdated test strips.