Here are practical tips for using and buying diabetic testing strips effectively:
🧪 1. Match Strips to Your Glucose Meter
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Only use test strips compatible with your glucose meter. Mismatched brands won't work and may give incorrect results.
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Example:
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Bayer Contour strips → for CONTOUR meters
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Accu-Chek strips → for Accu-Chek meters
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📌 Tip: Always double-check meter compatibility when buying online.
📏 2. Check Expiration Dates
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Expired strips may give inaccurate readings.
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Store them in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed.
🧊 Avoid:
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Heat, moisture, or direct sunlight
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Using strips beyond their expiration—even if unopened
💸 3. Compare Prices Smartly
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Buy in bulk (e.g., 100-count packs) for better per-strip cost.
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Check pharmacies, online sellers, or warehouse stores.
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Some affordable and FDA-cleared brands:
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True Metrix
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Bayer Contour
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🔍 Use discount codes like:
📲 4. Consider Insurance Coverage
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Some brands (like Bayer Contour or Accu-Chek) may be covered by insurance.
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Ask your doctor or pharmacy about "preferred brands" on your plan.
📑 If uninsured, ask for generic strips or meter + strip bundles.
✅ 5. Choose Features That Make Testing Easier
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| No coding required | No need to manually input calibration codes |
| Small blood sample | Less pain (0.3–0.6 μL is best) |
| Fast results (5 sec) | Makes daily testing quicker |
| Second-chance sampling | Avoids wasting strips if sample is too small |
🩹 6. Test Consistently and Correctly
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Wash hands before testing (dirt or food residue can skew results).
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Avoid "milking" the finger too much—can dilute the sample.
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Use a new lancet each time (reduces pain + infection risk).
🕓 Stick to a schedule: before meals, 2 hours after meals, and/or bedtime, depending on your plan.
🛡️ 7. Use Trusted Brands
These brands have reliable accuracy and support:
🤔 Bonus: Should You Switch Meters?
If your strips are too expensive or hard to find:
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Consider getting a new meter that uses affordable or insurance-covered strips.
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Many companies offer free meters with purchase of strips or via doctor offices.