Photo: JILL DELSAUX / AFP / Getty Images
Health authorities have issued an urgent warning about defective glucose-monitoring devices made by Abbott Diabetes Care. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors may provide dangerously inaccurate low blood sugar readings. These false results can lead patients to make harmful treatment decisions, such as skipping insulin or consuming excess carbohydrates.
Abbott has acknowledged the issue, reporting 736 severe injuries worldwide and confirming that seven deaths outside the U.S. may be connected to the malfunctioning sensors. The company estimates that around three million devices could be affected and has announced plans to replace them.
The FDA has classified this as a high-risk medical device alert, urging patients to check their device model and stop using affected sensors immediately.
⚠️ Key Facts
- Devices involved: Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 and Libre 3 Plus sensors
- Problem: Incorrect low glucose readings
- Impact: 736 severe injuries, 7 deaths (none in the U.S.)
- Scale: Up to 3 million devices potentially affected
- Response: Abbott is replacing faulty monitors and the FDA has issued an early alert
For full details from CBS News HERE
