People with diabetes and parents/caregivers of people with diabetes are being warned by Health Canada that various social media and online retail platforms are promoting unauthorized blood glucose-reading smartwatches.
Blood Glucose Smartwatches Not Authorized
It is important to be aware that Health Canada has not authorized any smartwatches that can independently monitor blood glucose levels.
These devices have not been assessed for safety and effectiveness and may pose serious health risks to consumers.
Unauthorized devices may give false blood glucose readings or they may not provide timely alerts, which could lead to errors in diabetes management.
Health Canada has authorized devices to be inserted under the patient’s skin that can be used with their smartwatch or smartphone to monitor blood glucose levels. Authorized devices can be found by searching Medical Devices Active Licence Listing (MDALL).
Potential Risks
If a false blood sugar reading is used to make diabetes treatment decisions or an important alert is not provided in time, serious errors can occur such as:
- taking too little insulin, which can lead to high blood sugar (called hyperglycemia),
- taking too much insulin, which can lead to low blood sugar (called hypoglycemia), and
- failing to treat low or high blood sugar.
These serious errors can lead to health consequences requiring medical treatment, such as hyperglycemic emergencies, severe low blood sugar, loss of consciousness, seizure, coma, and death.
Actions to Take
- Do not use blood glucose-reading smartwatches that are not authorized by Health Canada.
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have used any of these products and have health concerns.
- Talk to your healthcare professional about which blood glucose monitoring system is right for you. You can search Health Canada authorized medical devices at Medical Devices Active Licence Listing (MDALL).
Report any health product-related side effects or complaints to Health Canada by calling 613-957-2991 or toll free at 1-866-225-0709. If you prefer email, send to info@hc-sc.gc.ca
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The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
