A person holding a glucometer and a test strip.

What are glucometer strips and how to use them?

Written by

Team Diabesmart

Medically Reviewed
Vibhuti Jain

Nutrition Consultant | R&D Head

Glucometer strips, also known as test strips, are an important part of managing and checking blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. These small, disposable strips are very important for accurately measuring blood sugar levels when used with a glucometer device. Brands like Arkray, Circa, and Dr. Morepen offer different types of glucometer strips to meet the needs of different users.

Arkray glucometer strips are known for their accuracy and work well with Arkray glucometer devices, providing reliable and precise results. Meanwhile, Circa glucometer strips are praised for their simplicity and quick results, making it easier for people managing diabetes. Additionally, Dr. Morepen glucometer strips are known for being affordable without sacrificing quality, making blood sugar monitoring more accessible.

Types of Glucometer Strips

  • Arkray Glucometer Strips

Glucometer strips from Arkray are renowned for their accuracy and reliability. They are favored by individuals who prioritize precision in their blood sugar monitoring.

  • Circa Glucometer Strips

Circa offers glucometer strips with advanced features, making them a popular choice for users who value innovative technology in their diabetic management.

  • Dr. Morepen Glucometer Strips

Dr. Morepen's glucometer strips are known for their affordability and cost-effectiveness, making them the go-to option for individuals looking for economical solutions for their blood sugar monitoring needs.

How to Use Glucometer Strips

To properly use glucometer strips with a glucometer device, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare the Equipment: Ensure that you have the necessary items including the glucometer, a lancet, alcohol swab, and your test strips. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them completely.

  2. Prepare the Glucometer: Turn on your glucometer and insert a new set of lancet into your lancing device.

  3. Prepare the Test Strip: Take a test strip from the vial, and immediately close the vial to prevent contamination and damage to the strips. Keep them away from high humidity. Do not use the strip if this bottle has been left open.

  4. Placing the Test Strip: Carefully insert the glucometer strip into the glucometer in the direction indicated in the glucometer's manual.

  5. Blood Application: Use the lancing device to prick the side of your fingertip to obtain a small drop of blood. Gently squeeze your finger to get a proper sized blood drop. Place this drop of blood on the correct location of the test strip.

  6. Reading the Results: After a few seconds, the glucometer will show your blood sugar level on its display.

Always refer to the specific instructions provided with your test strips and glucometer device for precise guidelines.

Tips for Choosing the Right Glucometer Strips

  • Compatibility with Glucometer Devices: When selecting glucometer strips, it's crucial to ensure that they are compatible with the specific glucometer device being used. Different devices may require specific types of strips, so it's important to choose the right strips for accurate readings.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: For frequent blood sugar monitoring, cost-effectiveness is a significant factor to consider. Evaluate the cost per strip and explore options for purchasing in larger quantities to save on overall expenses. Look for brands offering packages with 50 strips, which can be a cost-effective choice for regular users.

  • Brand Reputation and Reliability: Research the reputation and reliability of different brands offering glucometer strips, such as Arkray, Circa, and Dr. Morepen. Check user reviews and performance to gain insights into accuracy and consistency before making a decision.

Popular Glucose Test Strip Brands

When it comes to monitoring blood glucose levels, there are several notable test strip brands that have gained popularity among individuals with diabetes. Some of the leading brands include:

  1. OneTouch - Known for its accuracy and ease of use, OneTouch offers a range of test strips compatible with its glucose meters.

  2. Accu-Chek - Renowned for its advanced technology and reliability, Accu-Chek provides a variety of test strips that deliver precise results.

  3. FreeStyle - FreeStyle test strips are highly regarded for their fast testing speed and minimal blood sample requirement, catering to the needs of many users.

  4. Contour - Offering high-quality test strips with exceptional precision, Contour is a trusted choice for many individuals managing diabetes.

  5. ReliOn - Known for their affordability and widespread availability, ReliOn test strips have become popular among budget-conscious consumers.

These brands have established themselves as reliable options for those in need of accurate and efficient blood glucose monitoring, providing peace of mind to individuals managing diabetes.

To conclude:

Glucometer strips are crucial for managing diabetes by accurately checking blood sugar levels. Brands like Arkray, Circa, and Dr. Morepen offer different types of strips, catering to diverse needs. Choosing the right strips, compatible with a specific glucometer and affordable, significantly impacts diabetes management. They enable individuals to monitor their blood sugar closely and make informed health decisions, leading to a better quality of life for those managing diabetes daily.

FAQs:

Q: How often should I calibrate my glucometer?

A: It is recommended to calibrate your glucometer every time you open a new box of test strips.

Q: Can I reuse the test strips?

A: No, test strips are designed for single use only. Reusing them may lead to inaccurate blood glucose readings.

Q: What should I do if my test strip gives an error message?

A: If your test strip displays an error message, remove it from the glucometer and try using a new one. If the issue persists, contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Q: Is there a specific way to store glucometer strips?

A: Store the test strips in their original container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Q: How long are glucometer strips good for after opening the vial?

A: Once opened, most test strips are good for 3-6 months, but it's essential to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific storage and expiration details.

This Blog post is an initiative by DiabeSmart, to provide accurate and Nutritionist / Doctor approved information related to Diabetes. DiabeSmart is India's first Food brand designed specifically for Diabetics, that has been clinically tested on Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics to deliver 55% - 70% lower Sugar spikes. DiabeSmart is part of Lo! Foods - India's leading brand for Everyday Functional Health foods.

Back to blog

Related article

Disclaimer

The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Bajo Foods does not claim responsibility for this information.

The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in ... Read More

References

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.