Medtronic MiniMed insulin pumps are being recalled by the company due to a dosing defect that has already caused 2,175 injuries and at least one death.
On Thursday, the FDA issued a statement warning that the MiniMed 600 Series devices are known to have a missing or broken retainer ring, which helps keep the insulin cartridge locked in the pump’s reservoir compartment. If not firmly placed, the slippage may cause over- or under-dosing. Incorrect delivery of the life-saving drug could cause hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (extremely high blood sugar), and lead to seizures and death.
So far, the federal agency has received over 26,420 complaints related to this malfunction.
In November, the medical device maker attempted to notify their customers about the faulty retainer, advising users to examine their pump to be sure the cartridges are firmly locking into the compartment, and also confirm the retainer ring is properly placed and undamaged. Those with defective devices are asked to call the company for device replacement, and to follow their doctor’s instructions for manual insulin injections.
If you or anyone you know is still using the recalled Medtronic MiniMed insulin pump, the company asks they call 24-hour Medtronic Technical Support at 877-585-0166.