Meters and codes

[ShottleBop]

I don't know how many of us still use meters with codes, but I just had a good reminder of how important it is to set your meter to the right code.

I've been using a OneTouch meter for the past 8 years, and for that entire time OneTouch strips have all borne code 25. Recently, I wanted to do some extra testing, and bought another brand of OneTouch-compatible strips off of Amazon. They were code 4. I remembered to set my meter's code properly before using them. This past Monday, however, when I switched back to OneTouch strips, I forgot to reset the code. My numbers seemed abnormally high all week, but I ascribed that to my having eaten my first Big Mac in over 12 years the day before (as a test). I thought my body was reacting to that. This morning, when my FBG was 112 (over 110 for the past several days), I realized that I might have forgotten to reset my meter to 25. After checking--and resetting my meter--my reading was 90.

So--especially when you're trying out (or have tried out) an off-brand of strip--remember to check your meter's code!

One decent explanation of why meters are coded: https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/blog/thats-test-strips-coded-diabetes-questions-answered/

Thanks,

ShottleBop

[skb]

The last coded meter that I used was the AccuChek Active. The box of strips would come with a code chip to be inserted in the meter. With every change of strips I would throw the old chip and insert the new one. Somewhere between 2 purchases, the company had decided to do away with the coding and the new box of strips came without the code insert. I had already thrown away the old one and went hunting in my garbage for the chip but couldn't find it. So, I had to go out and buy a new meter. Diabetes stories are fun. We should compile such anecdotes in a book.   

[Sweety]

I have also used the Active with the chip. But the now new meter Control D is without any code. It is more accurate.

[Grammabear]

I also used to use the Active with the chip, and then they changed it and then my insurance changed.  So in the process of switching insurances through my husband's employment, I ended up switching meters too.  My new meter is the Bayer Contour Next One that has no chip or a code.  Much easier to check blood glucose without trying to keep track of the chip.

[bigskygal]

One of my first meters used the chip, but now I use a One Touch Ultra 2. It is coded 25 and all the strips are too so no problem. My back up meter is a Sunmark True Metrix and it doesn't have any code.