Glucose Monitors Malfunction May Be Linked to 7 Deaths

More than 700 serious injuries and a startling seven deaths worldwide may be tied to malfunctioning glucose monitors — a sobering alert for the millions relying on continuous glucose monitoring. The devices in question belong to a widely used family of sensors, and authorities are now urging users to check their devices and consider alternatives.

What Happened

Abbott Laboratories recently disclosed that certain units of its FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors may give incorrectly low glucose readings. According to Fox Business, “‘As of November 14, 2025, Abbott has reported 736 serious injuries and seven deaths associated with this issue,’ the FDA said. Abbott noted that 57 of the ‘severe adverse events’ occurred in the U.S., and none of the deaths took place in the country.”

Scope & Risks

• About 3 million glucose monitors are affected globally, with roughly half believed to be expired or already used.
• The error has been tied to 736 reported severe adverse events, 57 of them in the U.S.
• While no deaths have been reported in the U.S., the total number of deaths possibly linked to the malfunction stands at seven.

According to CBS News, ‘Incorrect low readings can lead to excessive carbohydrate intake or skipped or delayed insulin doses,’ Abbott said. Those decisions ‘may pose serious health risks, including potential injury or death,’ the company said.”

Who Is Affected

Anyone using FreeStyle Libre 3 or Libre 3 Plus glucose monitors should verify if their device is among the affected batches. Model numbers and unique device identifiers have been published by the FDA and Abbott. Other devices — including the Libre 3 Reader, mobile apps, and previous Libre sensor generations — are not affected, per the company’s statement.

What Patients Should Do Now

Immediately check the serial number of your FreeStyle Libre 3 / 3 Plus sensor at the official verification site provided by Abbott (www.FreeStyleCheck.com). If the glucose monitors are part of the affected batch, stop using them. Abbott is offering free replacements. Until you have a safe replacement, revert to traditional glucose monitors or unaffected sensors for making treatment decisions — especially if sensor readings don’t match how you feel.

Why This Matters

CGM sensors have transformed diabetes care by offering real-time glucose tracking, reducing the need for frequent finger-pricks, and helping users manage insulin doses more precisely. A widespread malfunction like this undermines that benefit and could result in serious — potentially fatal — consequences for users who rely on these devices day after day. The alert is a stark reminder that even trusted medical devices — and the people relying on them — can be vulnerable.