Insulin issue

Individuals with Type 1 diabetes, beware.  A recall was just announced by the Food and Drug Administration concerning the Medtronic MiniMed 600 series insulin pumps.  Owners of this type of pump are at risk of receiving either more or less than the required insulin dosage.  The reason? The pumps are being used with missing or broken retainer rings, which are necessary units that lock the cartridges into place in the reservoir compartment.  If not locked into place, an incorrect level of insulin will be delivered.  Type 1 diabetes patients rely on their insulin pumps to survive.  If the pumps are not of sound construction, their lives may be in danger.      

The FDA issued the Class I recall of 322,005 insulin pumps after learning of one Medtronic MiniMed 600 series-related death, as well as 2,175 injuries suffered by patients.  The recall class issued is of the most extreme type and of the utmost importance.  Medtronic advised that the retainer ring can become damaged upon impact on a hard surface or floor.  Injuries include hypoglycemia, which is indicated by feelings of dizziness, confusion, and weakness; and hyperglycemia, which can cause loss of consciousness, seizures, or possible death.

The recalled devices include MiniMed Series Insulin Pumps, Model 630G (MMT – 1715) and Model 670G (MMT – 1780).  In addition to the FDA’s recall of these devices, Medtronic reached out to consumers, and health care providers are helping their patients who have used the recalled pumps.  Medtronic insists that safety is the company’s focus and it will be working endlessly to fix the issues in the malfunctioned products.  Patients are instructed to contact Medtronic for a new pump if there is a determined locking issue on their existing pumps.  The other option is for patients to use manual insulin injections, if this is seen as the best solution after consulting with their doctor. The company urges patients to routinely check the locking durability of the pump and reservoir to ensure continued stability.