[JRDude]

I am brand new to this forum and this is my first post. I was diagnosed almost two years ago and have generally had good luck managing my diabetes. The first indication I had that there was a problem was that I lost about 25 pounds without dieting over a period of about a year. During that time I was eating like a horse and constantly drinking fluids. By the time I went to the doctor I was already convinced that I was a candidate for diabetes. My initial test reading came back from the lab at 365. The doctor started me on medication and over a period of three months or so my readings became pretty steady in the 110-120 range. I have several food allergies so the adjustment of diet was nothing new to me.

Here's my question; I have noticed that there seems to be a definite difference in my readings based on the test strip code. Specifically, when I use test strips with the code number of 25, my readings elevate by 20 to 25 points. I know that I am coding my meter correctly and I verify each day that it is correct. When I use test strips with the code of 4 or 14 my readings return to the 110 to 120 range. Is this a common problem? I am considering asking the pharmacy to stop giving me strips that are code 25. I have read on this forum that some folks suggest changing your meter every year or so; with the exception that you may have a defective meter, why is this suggested?

Thanks for your comments, JR

 

[Richard157]

I use the Free Style meter. I have three of them and sometimes i test on all three and compare results, they are usually very close. I use another meter which requires codes, the Relion meter from walmart. The Relion compares very well with my Free Style. I suggest that you use a meter that does not require a code. There should be no problem then.

 

[diabetes709]

Here's my question; I have noticed that there seems to be a definite difference in my readings based on the test strip code. Specifically, when I use test strips with the code number of 25, my readings elevate by 20 to 25 points. I know that I am coding my meter correctly and I verify each day that it is correct. When I use test strips with the code of 4 or 14 my readings return to the 110 to 120 range. Is this a common problem? I am considering asking the pharmacy to stop giving me strips that are code 25. I have read on this forum that some folks suggest changing your meter every year or so; with the exception that you may have a defective meter, why is this suggested?

Thanks for your comments, JR

Sorry. I have to say what you don't want to hear You need to call the meter manufacturer, and they will replace your meter for you. Coding manually is the same thing as a meter that codes automatically. Its just that you have to make the change yourself. My Ultra mini has only seen Code 25 strips in six months, no issues at all.

The meter folks are just dying to keep you buying their strips, and I guarantee they will just send you a new meter, if that is your desire.

If you like it, replace it. If your insurance will let you have a different brand, go for it, but there is most certainly a problem with the one you are using. If its not user error, then its just plain bad.

Have you done the control fluid check? That may reveal something you can work with.

I hope you will come back with more info once you get this figured out. I am quite curious about how you get strips that are coded 25, and your next batch is a 4 or 14. I would think that the codes would be about the same rather consistently, if you are getting them from the same place each time. Shows how much I know but mine have always been 25, and if my next refill is coded as a 4, I am gonna need to hear from the pharmacist how that can be. But that's just me.

Please let us know what you decide, and how it works out. I am here to learn this stuff as best as I can. I haven't ever seen or been advised, to change my meter. A solid state device should last a very long time unless you abuse it with water or dropping it.

John

 

[JRDude]

I talked to my pharmacy today and they suggested I call the 800 number listed on my meter and explain the problem. They also said they have no way of checking the test strip code number without opening the box which they do not want to do. I'll make the call tomorrow and let you know what I learn.

Thanks, JR

 

[JRDude]

I called the 800 number provided on my meter this morning. They asked several questions and are going to send me a new meter, some testing solution (something I was not aware of before yesterday and have not had up to now), and some new test strips. I found their agent to be helpful and very co-operative.

I also learned that the test strips they offer in the near future will probably exclusively be code number 25. Apparently this is a new design strip they are implementing in an effort to avoid requiring users to code their meters as often. If this change does not put my readings back in the 110 to 120 range it will be time to either change testing equipment or see the doctor, or both.

I'll keep you posted.

Thanks, JR

 

[diabetes709]

I called the 800 number provided on my meter this morning. They asked several questions and are going to send me a new meter, some testing solution (something I was not aware of before yesterday and have not had up to now), and some new test strips. I found their agent to be helpful and very co-operative.

I also learned that the test strips they offer in the near future will probably exclusively be code number 25. Apparently this is a new design strip they are implementing in an effort to avoid requiring users to code their meters as often. If this change does not put my readings back in the 110 to 120 range it will be time to either change testing equipment or see the doctor, or both.

I'll keep you posted.

Thanks, JR

Excellent. Glad you are making progress, and glad to know the labs are working to make the coding consistent. Always nice when any company is helpful, rather than a roadblock <g>

Hope you get it fixed up soon. It really is important to be confident in you meter so you can keep good control of your BG, and feel that you are doing things the right way.

Thanks for the feedback,

John