Top 5 Best Glucometers in India (2023) – Reviews
Introduction – Let’s understand what Glucometer is used for:
Healthy lifestyle and fitness is the need of the hour. In recent times, we have realised that one of the important investment that we can do for our-self or our family members is to invest in keeping good health and fitness.
Our sedentary lifestyle, eating habits, work stress, and the polluted environment has resulted in the early onset of lifestyle diseases. This not only takes a toll on the person but affects the complete family.
The human body is undoubtedly a smart machine. It usually gives signals before the onset of any major problem. If you experience any symptoms like increased urine output, excessive thirst, weight loss, hunger, fatigue, skin problems, slow healing wounds, yeast infections, and tingling or numbness in the feet or toes. It is important to consult your doctor without delay. This could be Diabetes.
Diabetes is a chronic condition associated with abnormally high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Insulin produced by the pancreas lowers blood glucose. Absence or insufficient production of insulin, or an inability of the body to properly use insulin causes diabetes. The most common types of diabetes are type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
It is important to frequently monitor your blood glucose reading in such conditions. A glucometer is a device that comes in handy. There is a wide variety of glucometer machines available in the market. Let’s see what sort of devices are available and points to be considered in order to choose the best glucometer for your home use.
What is a Glucometer ?
A Glucometer is a portable healthcare device used for determining the absolute concentration of glucose in the blood. A small drop of blood, obtained by pricking the skin is placed on a disposable test strip that the meter reads and uses to calculate the blood glucose level.
Sedentary lifestyle, intake of unhealthy and unbalanced food in our diet accompanied by several other factors often results in disturbed blood glucose levels and the condition is called diabetes mellitus.
If you have diabetes or are at risk of diabetes, then monitoring your blood sugar level is very important. It’s a good idea to know your blood glucose level to keep a check on your health condition.
Having a Glucometer at home is often preferred as it cuts the cost of visiting medical labs and prolonged wait for the test results. It’s a handy portable healthcare device that is easy to use and can be operated by anyone at home.
Modern-day glucometers available in the market are loaded with high-end smart features like Smartphone connectivity, voice command, and high memory storage capacity at an affordable price.
When it comes to selecting the right glucometer for home use, you need to consider glucometer type, test strips, lancets, and built-in memory.
Best Glucometers in India – Our Shortlisting:
1. Accu-Chek Active Blood Glucose Meter
Accu-Check Active Blood glucose Meter is one of the finest devices available in the market in this price range. The features available in this device makes it the most popular and highest selling glucometer device in the market.
It is one of the most accurate devices in this segment and it fulfills ISO 15197:2013 standards of accuracy. Ease of use is another feature that makes it a popular choice. Bigger, easy-to-read display and Easy visual double-check is there to ensure correct measurement.
Benefits and Features:
- Accurate blood glucose measurement
- Easy to use, only 2 buttons to operate
- Safe, with alerts for expired strips or underdosing
- Smart, reports up to 90 days of test results
- Convenient testing, use strips in or out of the meter
- No coding for even easier blood glucose monitoring
- USB interface for data transfer
You may also view the video for setting up and using Accu-Check Active blood glucose meter.
Video Credits – Accu-Check
2. Dr.Morepen Glucose Monitor (GlucoOne BG-03)
Dr. Mopren Glucose monitor comes with a smart design and useful features. The price range is highly competitive. Comparing the features and accuracy of results, this glucometer device is one of the most liked blood sugar monitoring devices available in the market.
No coding technology, fast results, and small blood required for testing makes it popular within this category.
Benefits and Features:
- No Coding Technology
- 300 Memories
- 7,14 and 31 day average
- Small Blood Sample
- Alternate Site Testing
Video Credits – Dr. Morepen
3. Accu-Chek Instant S Glucometer
This blood sugar monitoring device is fairly popular in this segment. There is no setup required – just insert a test strip, apply a small blood sample, and read your blood glucose result on the large display. It’s as easy and fast as checking your phone messages.
Accu-Check Instant S Glucometer delivers results within 4 seconds. People who have used this device have appreciated the ease of use and large display clutter-free screen.
Benefits and Features:
- Target range indicator: Gives visual reassurance
- 1-button navigation: Only what you need
- Simple preparation: No set up required
- Easy-edge test strip: Just a small drop of blood
Video Credits – Accu-Check
4. Dr.Trust Fully Automatic Glucometer
Dr. Trust fully automatic glucometer machine is a small packet with brilliant features. This fully automatic sugar testing machine comes with a unique feature of a smiley indicator. The result is displayed along with face symbols within 5 seconds. A happy smiley indicates good results and a sad smiley indicates unsatisfactory results.
Dr. Trust (USA) Glucometer monitor Comes with 3 modes General, AC, and PC modes. The general mode can be used to take blood glucose measurements at any point of the day. AC mode is used to take the measurements in the early morning on an empty stomach. If you want to take the readings after taking your meals, you can switch to PC mode of the device.
This health care device has another smart Strip Ejection Button, used strips are disposed simply on a push of a button without touching the hand.
Benefits and Features:
- GDH-FAD Strip
- Ketone Alert
- Unique Smiley Feature
- 3 Different Modes – General, AC and PC
- Strip Ejection Button Function
- Units Measurement & Large LCD Backlight
- Fully Automatic & Reminder Alarm Function
- PRODUCT OF USA WITH WARRANTY IN INDIA
Video Credits – Dr Trust
5. Contour Plus One Blood Glucose Monitoring System
When it comes to accuracy and use of modern technology to store and use data, Contour Plus One Blood Glucose monitoring device is the most asked for device.
Top features:
- Remarkably accurate testing
- The smartLIGHT feature. Gives you an instant indicator of your blood glucose (BG) results.
Green = within target; Amber = above target; Red = below target - Prompts you to reapply blood if the first sample is insufficient to take a reading. Helps to avoid lancing a second time and wasting strips.
- Add events to your readings
- Get smart Alerts- Be alerted when your BG levels are at a critical high or critical low level.
- Share reports with your doctor
- Contour diabetes app: Seamlessly connects via Bluetooth technology- helps set reminders to check and add appointments to the doctor’s schedule
Video Credits – Contour
Features to look for when buying Glucometer:
The glucometer is a healthcare device and diabetes is a sensitive health issue. Accuracy of data is critical for proper diagnostics. The following are factors that you should consider while buying the best glucometer in India.
- Accuracy: It is one of the most important factors that should be considered as it further helps medical professionals for proper diagnostics and prevent complication due to inaccurate results. It’s extremely necessary to choose a glucometer that gives accurate test results. If your device is not accurate, you might get varied test results, causing problems in medication.
- Blood sample size: With the advancement in technology, glucometer devices available do not require much blood sample. One drop of blood or lesser than one milliliter of blood is generally required by the glucometer machines. It is an important criterion to opt for a machine that requires a small sample size and that too from alternate sites and not just one particular point.
- Test time: A diabetic person generally needs to monitor blood glucose levels twice or thrice in a day. Getting quick results is often helpful. However, glucometer devices usually come with a test time of 5-15 seconds. Look for a glucometer that comes with a test time of 5-10 seconds only.
- Data storage: It is often advised to look for glucometer devices that come with maximum storage capacity. Some devices also have the data sharing feature to transfer/store data on mobile phones or laptops to send readings to your physicians on a regular basis in a precise manner.
- Markers: It is really important to buy a glucometer that can tag the reading before and after the meal and measure it accordingly (the readings can vary to the highest extent from morning to evening) and to check the levels predominantly, this feature holds importance. This feature is required because the readings can vary to a great extent.
- Coding: another important thing to consider while purchasing the glucometer is automatic or manual coding. Whenever you buy a new pack of the glucometer test strips, you will have to code the details into the machine so that it auto-calibrates itself. Going for an automatic option, you will avoid all this hassle to manually enter the details into the machine.
- Battery or rechargeable: Glucometers come with two different charging options. One has a battery that needs to be replaced after around 1000+ readings and another set comes with a rechargeable option. They can simply be charged, the same way you charge your phone. Rechargeable glucometers are preferred as it doesn’t require changing batteries frequently.
- Lancet: Nowadays, most of the glucometers come with their own lancet. Lancet is a sharp and thick knife kind of material that pricks your finger to take the blood sample. It doesn’t cause much pain while the blood is taken out for a sample.
- Notifications: This feature is preferred by elderly users or people who are not literate enough to record/remember ideal readings. This feature notifies users in case of high, low, or very high sugar levels through a beeping sound or an LED light. These notifications are good to know about the rising issues in your body.
- Portability: Modern-day glucometers are small, compact, and lightweight. It is an important feature for users who travel often and need to measure sugar levels on the go. This means that the glucometer should be really portable and a carry case should be included as a part of standard equipment.
- Sync to the app: Some glucometers come with a synchronizing feature with a smartphone to record and share readings, log meals, and insulin using an app.
- Additional features: For better readings, one should prefer glucometer that has backlights or LED lights feature. The device with a USB meter can also help in better storage and the one which comes with extra memory storage can be a plus. Glucometers also have an audio reading feature for elderly or visually impaired users. Some glucometer has a feature to auto-eject the test strip so that you do not have to touch them while another feature that is found in some glucometer is the notification alert for the ketones levels in the blood.
- Warranty: Glucometers available in the market comes with 1-5 years of warranty. Check for the warranty that comes with the machine as the company will replace your machine in case of any issue if it is covered under warranty.
- Price: We would recommend you to buy the one which shows accurate readings. However, you can find the glucometer within the range of 600-2000 INR.
- Maintenance: Ease of cleaning glucometer also need to be considered while purchasing a new machine.
What are the factors that affect glucose readings?
There are various factors which affect the readings and some are listed below:
- Test strips problems – It is important to use strips that are meant for specific glucometers. Check the expiry date and compatibility before every purchase. Damaged or outdated test strips should not be used. Also, it is important to store strips in sealed containers and keep them away from moisture, heat, and humidity.
- Weather conditions: Glucometer and strips should be kept in proper temperature conditions as prescribed by the manufacturer. Different weather conditions can also affect the readings badly. The manufacturer’s manual/guidelines should be referred to and followed.
- Reading technique: Some users fail to read correctly and that is why the accurate readings can’t come. Make sure that you have tested the levels first in front of a doctor or physician and then by yourself.
- Testing site location: hands and testing site should be washed and dried thoroughly before pricking. Lotions, dirt, and other substances on your skin sometimes result in wrong readings.
- Coding Issues: Improper match of the code available on strip and device also results in wrong results.
Who should purchase a glucometer?
- Depending upon your age, lifestyle, eating habits, and recommendation by your doctor.
- If you are diabetic or advised by a doctor to monitor your blood glucose levels at frequent intervals.
- If your blood glucose readings are often more than 100mg/dl before meal and 140mg/dl post 2 hours after meals.
- If you are a fitness freak and want to monitor your blood glucose levels.
What are the pros and cons of using a glucometer?
Pros
- It is convenient to measure your blood glucose levels in the comfort of home.
- It is a cost-effective way to monitor blood glucose levels.
- You may frequently update your doctor about your blood sugar reports.
Cons
- You need to prick your finger to check the readings, which becomes a pain for frequent users.
Frequently asked questions on Glucometer
- How does a glucometer work?
A glucometer is a small device that monitors blood glucose levels. The person needs to prick finger using the needle to get a blood droplet which is further placed on the lancet strip. This strip is inserted into the device to know the reading. - Is it safe to use glucometer?
Yes, it is 100% safe to use glucometer as it does not result in any side effects. Though proper care needs to be taken before pricking. It is also advisable to maintain hygienic conditions to store the device to last longer. - Can we reuse glucometer lancets and test strips?
Strictly no, It is not recommended to reuse lancets, test stips, cotton buds used in the process. It may cause infections and other health issues. Disposal of used products should be as per guidelines in order to avoid any side effects and keep the environment clean. - Is it necessary to have a prescription for using glucometer?
It is highly recommended to consult a doctor before you start using glucometer. It is advisable not to use this without a doctor’s prescription or healthcare professional. If you are using this for the first time then it is recommended that you read the instruction booklet/guidelines provided along with the device. Blood glucose reading is a sensitive health issue, thus it is recommended to consult a doctor or health care professional for safety tips and precautions for tracking the accurate glucose levels. - What factors should I consider while purchasing a glucometer?
There are plenty of options available in the market. The key factors to be looked for before purchasing the device covers – glucometer type, usage, the accuracy of the glucose monitor, compatible strips and lancets, memory function, smart connectivity- Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, ease of use and finally the portable nature.
It is important to pick the best one that perfectly matches the requirements and suggestions by your doctor or healthcare professional. - How often you should check the blood sugar levels?
It depends upon your health condition. Different diabetic patients need to measure blood glucose levels at different intervals as prescribed by the doctors. However, it is recommended by the experts to take sugar readings twice a day- pre-lunch and post-lunch timings. If the problem is severe, you need to follow your doctor’s advice. - What should be the ideal glucose readings throughout the day?
People need to maintain their sugar level to stay strong and healthy. As per the health standards, the following guidelines may be referred for adults aged 20 and above.
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- Fasting- less than 100mg/dL
- Before Meals- 70-130mg/dL
- After Meals- less than 180mg/dL
- Bed Time- 100-140mg/dL
- For children aged 6+ years, the blood glucose readings are as follows:
- Fasting- 80-180/dL
- Before Meals- 90-130mg/dL
- After Meals- 180mg/dL
- Bed Time- 110-200mg/dL
- And for pregnant women:
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- Fasting- 60-95/dL
- After Meals- 140mg/dL
- Bed Time- 110-200mg/dL
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- What could be the reason for inaccurate glucose readings?
The devices available nowadays are fairly accurate. However, if there is any discrepancy or you are not sure of the readings, the following could be the possible reasons.
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- The test strip is not inserted properly.
- Due to water, oil, dirt or alcohol on the testing area.
- The device has stopped working and batteries are running low or drained out.
- The blood sample is not properly applied on the test strip.
- The code is not entered correctly as some devices need to be configured with proper codes.
You may consult your doctor to further verify the readings. If the problem persists or If you find the product to be defective, approach the manufacturer for possible replacement of the device.
- Can two different people use the same glucose meter?
You can use the same device for 2 or more diabetic patients but the lancets and test strips should be new. Under no circumstances, the same piercing needle or test strips should be used for multiple patients to measure the blood sugar level. - How long a blood sugar monitoring system does lasts?
It depends on usage and maintenance. If you are cleaning it regularly and storing it in a good hygienic condition it may last more than 1-2 years. Glucometer should be replaced if you find any inaccurate readings or device not responding properly to codes or if there are any battery issues.
Conclusion – which glucometer to buy for home use:
With the number of options available in the market, it is really confusing to decide on your final choice. As per our recommendation accuracy should be the foremost factor to choose the device as diabetes is a sensitive health issue and an inaccurate reading may result in further complications.
With the increasing demand for such devices, the manufacturers have come up with smart features to monitor and share blood glucose reading with the ease of pushing a button at the comfort of home. Millions of patients are utilizing this technology to keep themselves fit and live a healthy life.
Do let us know if you have any questions with respect to any model or parameter in the comments section.
