FDA urges to refrain from using smartwatches and rings to monitor blood glucose levels

Here's What We Know

The FDA has issued a warning about the use of smartwatches and rings that claim to measure blood glucose levels without piercing the skin. On Tuesday, the agency emphasised that such devices could lead to inappropriate diabetes treatment if they provide inaccurate measurements.

This warning affects a wide range of products, including various brands of smartwatches and rings that claim to be able to measure glucose painlessly. The FDA has emphasised that none of these devices are cleared for such medical purposes.

This means that the features that claim to measure glucose have not been tested by the agency and may not be reliable enough for use in diabetes. Doctors advise patients to avoid such devices and only trust those that are cleared by the FDA or other relevant authorities.

Currently, many companies, including Apple and Samsung, are exploring technologies that could allow for painless blood glucose measurement. However, none of their devices have yet received the necessary approvals for medical use.

The FDA has said it is working to develop a policy that will force health device makers to demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of their products before they are released to the market. Until then, consumers are advised to refrain from using unapproved blood glucose monitoring devices and to consult their healthcare provider for advice on reliable methods of glucose monitoring.

Source: MacRumors