Using devices that haven’t been reviewed for safety could lead you to the hospital or worse.
Managing your diabetes accurately is integral. Many patients have authorized devices on hand to help keep blood sugar levels in check. With the advent of online sales and easy access to merchandise that may not be exactly what it promises to be, however, danger rears its head. If you’re a diabetes patient or even a health care professional, it can be easy to be misled.
In a safety communication issued on May 17th, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned against the use of unapproved or unauthorized devices.
These include continuous glucose monitoring systems, insulin pumps and automated insulin dosing systems. Using these devices could lead you to injure yourself or worse, as a result of inaccurate glucose measurements and unsafe insulin dosing.
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What about combining machines together for ease of use? The agency admits that many patients are seeking this feature. It’s handy.
Due to this imminent need, the FDA states that it is working hard to review and authorize diabetes management devices that patients can tailor to their needs. These include the first interoperable insulin pump and fully implantable continuous glucose monitor with compatible mobile app.
The FDA says it is continuing to streamline regulatory pathways. It hopes to promote innovation and patient access to these types of products. Before they can be approved however, maintaining your own safety is paramount.
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