Control Solutions: Buying Guide
The Role of Control Solutions
Control solutions are a critical component of diabetes management that help verify the accuracy of your testing equipment. These solutions contain a known amount of glucose and are used in place of blood to check if your meter and test strips are working together correctly. At GlucoseGear, we provide a wide range of Control Solutions from leading manufacturers to help you maintain confidence in your readings.
How to Choose the Right Solution
- Brand Matching: You must use the control solution brand that matches your specific glucose meter and test strips.
- Testing Levels: Solutions are often available in levels like Low, Mid, and High to check the meter’s accuracy across different glucose ranges.
- Expiration Dates: Control solutions usually expire 90 days after opening; always check the label for specific manufacturer guidelines.
- Storage Requirements: Most solutions should be stored at room temperature and never frozen.
Selecting a control solution is simpler than choosing meters or strips, but compatibility is the most important factor. Consider these points before purchasing:
Best Solutions for Popular Meters
We have categorized our top picks based on the most common testing systems to help you find the exact match for your hardware.
Best for OneTouch Verio Users: This mid-level solution is the standard for verifying Verio system accuracy during routine checks.
Best Dual-Level Value: Includes both high and low levels in one package, allowing for a complete range check of your Aviva system.
Best Budget Multi-Pack: An exceptionally affordable option for Embrace PRO users that includes two levels of testing solution.
Best for TRUE METRIX Systems: The recommended medium-level solution for maintaining the precision of all TRUE METRIX glucose monitors.
Understanding Solution Levels
Most brands offer multiple levels of solution. Level 1 or Low solutions check the meter’s performance at the lower end of the glucose spectrum. Level 2 or Mid solutions represent a typical glucose range, while Level 3 and 4 represent higher ranges. Using multiple levels provides a more comprehensive view of your meter’s reliability across different physiological states.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I perform a control solution test?
You should use a control solution when you open a new box of test strips, if you suspect the meter or strips are not working correctly, or if you drop your glucose meter.
Can I use any brand of control solution with my meter?
No. Control solutions are formulated specifically for each brand and model of meter. Using a different brand will result in inaccurate readings and cannot verify your meter’s performance.
How do I know if the control test passed?
Compare the result on your meter screen to the range printed on the side of your test strip vial or the strip packaging. If the number falls within that range, the test is successful.
Does control solution expire?
Yes. Most control solutions expire three months after the bottle is first opened. It is helpful to write the date you opened the bottle on the label.
