Health Canada has issued a warning to those who use continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to monitor their blood sugar after reports of users not receiving notifications of low or high blood sugar.
The devices, commonly used by those with both type 1 and 2 diabetes, measure the body’s glucose levels 24/7, sending readings to devices such as a smartphone.
Typically, an alert would sound if the reading is high or low, to notify the person to take action.
Health Canada has received numerous reports of the devices not sounding off, despite someone having a blood sugar out of range.
Failure to treat such episodes can lead to serious complications, including loss of conscience or even death.
The agency says the issue is not caused by any issues with the glucose monitor itself, which is still safe to use.
Health Canada is recommending users review their notification settings for the app connected to their CGM and turn off any features such as do not disturb or battery saving mode.