The Department of Health (DH) was notified by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States today (September 11) about a worldwide medical device alert on a type of blood glucose meters, the display screen of which may not work properly when dropped onto a hard surface.

A DH spokesman said the alert was initiated by the manufacturer, Abbott Diabetes Care, involving blood glucose meters manufactured after January 2007.

The display screen of the affected meters, marked as "Abbott Optium Xceed", may not work properly or may appear blank if dropped on a hard surface, thus making the users unable to view the blood glucose test results.

It was revealed that a total of 857 affected devices were sold in Hong Kong but none of them were released to hospitals.

As a precautionary measure, users should not use the blood glucose monitor if the display shows missing or blank section. They should contact the local agent or supplier for replacement.

"Users should ensure a full display show each time the blood glucose monitor is turned on, especially before using the monitor to check the blood glucose level," the spokesman said.

The spokesman said DH had alerted the Hospital Authority, private hospitals, nursing homes and medical professional associations to this medical device correction.

DH has not received any report of adverse events arising from this issue.

The spokesman said members of the public using the meters concerned should contact the local agent by calling its hotline 2806 4488 during office hours for advice.

Relevant information is available at the manufacturer's website.

Ends/Tuesday, September 11, 2007
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