Millions of diabetes patients urged to check devices after safety concerns
Dallas, 18 February 2026 – Medical device maker Abbott has recalled two widely used glucose monitoring sensors after they were found to give falsely low blood sugar readings. Health experts warn that incorrect readings over time can be dangerous, especially for people with diabetes who depend on accurate data to manage insulin doses.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the issue affects about 3 million FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus glucose sensors distributed across the United States. Around half of these devices may already be expired or used, but officials stress that patients should still take the warning seriously.
Why the recall matters
Glucose monitors help people with diabetes track their blood sugar levels throughout the day. When readings appear lower than they really are, users may delay or skip insulin. Over time, this can increase the risk of serious health problems such as high blood sugar, diabetic ketoacidosis, or even death.
Abbott has reported receiving 736 adverse event reports worldwide, including 57 in the U.S. Seven deaths have been reported that may be linked to the device not working correctly. While investigations are ongoing, the recall has been issued as a precaution to protect patient safety.
What should users do now?
Abbott says it is working to fix the problem and replace affected sensors at no cost. Users can visit the FreeStyleCheck website to find out whether their glucose sensor is part of the recall. If you are currently using one of the affected models, experts advise stopping its use immediately and safely discarding it.
For help, users can contact Abbott’s customer service center at 833-815-4273 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, or chat with a live agent through the company’s website. These steps are part of a broader effort to ensure diabetes device safety and maintain trust in continuous glucose monitoring systems.
Understanding diabetes risk
Diabetes remains one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States. About 38 million adults live with diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that roughly 12.3 percent of newly diagnosed patients begin using insulin within their first year.
Many early diabetes symptoms are easy to miss. These may include frequent urination, constant thirst, extreme hunger, unusual tiredness, blurry vision, slow-healing cuts, unexplained weight loss, or tingling in the hands and feet. Because symptoms can be mild at first, early detection and regular health checkups are key.
A reminder for patients
The recall highlights how important accurate medical devices are for everyday health decisions. Patients who rely on glucose monitors should stay informed about product updates, recalls, and safety alerts. If you notice unusual readings or symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.