6 Best Alternative Diabetes Management Systems for Discontinued Caretouch Test Strips
Caretouch test strips were a trusted and affordable option for blood glucose monitoring, used widely by patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike. However, in mid-2024, the manufacturer officially discontinued Caretouch test strips, leaving many people searching for reliable alternatives.
Importantly, no new strips are being produced, and Caretouch meters are now unusable unless you have leftover, unexpired strips—which are increasingly difficult to find. It's essential to find a replacement system, not just new strips.
Why Were Caretouch Test Strips So Popular?
Before being discontinued, Caretouch test strips were one of the most widely used glucose testing options for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Their strong reputation was built on a combination of affordability, ease of use, and accessibility:
- Compatible with the Caretouch meter: A reliable and cost-effective device favored by many users.
- Accurate results with a small blood sample: Required only a minimal sample size, reducing discomfort during testing.
- User-friendly: Easy to handle and operate, especially suitable for seniors and first-time testers.
- Widely accessible: Sold online and in local pharmacies at affordable prices, with no prescription required.
- Top-ranked on Amazon: Held the #1 best-seller spot in the Diabetes Test Strips category on Amazon for an extended period, reflecting its popularity and trust among users.
Because of these features, Caretouch test strips became a go-to choice for thousands of users seeking a dependable and budget-conscious glucose monitoring solution.
When Were Caretouch Test Strips Discontinued?
In mid-2024, multiple medical supply retailers began displaying notices that the manufacturer discontinued Caretouch test strips. While no formal announcement was posted on Caretouch’s main website, the listing updates across major suppliers confirmed that production had officially stopped.
How the Discontinuation Affects Patients, Caregivers, and Professionals
- Patients may experience confusion or frustration in switching devices
- Caregivers must help individuals adapt to new meters and systems
- Healthcare providers need to recommend alternative brands and update materials
Even more importantly, using expired Caretouch test strips or purchasing from unknown sellers poses a serious risk. Old or counterfeit strips can deliver inaccurate results, which may lead to poor diabetes management or dangerous health outcomes.
Why Are So Many Test Strips Disappearing?
The glucose monitoring market is rapidly evolving. Many manufacturers are shifting away from traditional blood glucose meters and test strips and moving toward Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems. CGMs offer real-time tracking without fingersticks and are gaining popularity with both patients and healthcare providers.
This shift is cutting into the profitability of low-cost test strip companies—like Caretouch—and causing more brands to pull their strips from the market entirely.
Top 4 Best Replacements for Caretouch Test Strips (Complete Systems)
Below are the top 4 affordable and accurate glucose monitoring systems to consider now that Caretouch test strips are no longer available:
1. MHC EasyTouch Blood Glucose Monitoring System
- Delivers quick and accurate results in just 5 seconds.
- Requires only a small 0.5 µL blood sample, reducing testing discomfort.
- No coding required—ideal for beginners and hassle-free testing.
- Compact and reliable system suitable for daily use at home or in clinical settings.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood Glucose Meters
2. Trividia TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring System
- Incorporates advanced Triple Sense Technology to enhance result accuracy.
- Requires only 0.5 µL of blood and delivers results in as little as 4 seconds.
- Hydrophilic coating enables fast and efficient blood absorption.
- See-through sample well confirms proper blood volume before processing.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood Glucose Meters
3. UniStrip1 Blood Glucose Test Strips for use with OneTouch Ultra Meters
- Designed to deliver fast and reliable results using glucose oxidase technology.
- Low-cost alternative to branded strips—ideal for self-paying users.
- Results available in just 5 seconds from a 0.5 µL blood sample.
- Popular generic substitute for OneTouch Ultra strips without sacrificing quality.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Compatible Blood Glucose Meters
- OneTouch Ultra
- OneTouch Ultra2
- OneTouch UltraMini
- OneTouch UltraSmart
NOTE: UniStrip1 Test Strips are NOT compatible with OneTouch Verio Meters or Caretouch Meters
4. Bayer Contour Next Blood Glucose Monitoring System
- Uses multi-pulse technology to evaluate a sample multiple times for enhanced precision.
- Second-chance sampling reduces waste by allowing additional blood to be applied.
- Sip-in sampling makes blood application easier and more efficient.
- Fast, 5-second results with easy-to-read display and smartLIGHT™ guidance.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood Glucose Meters
5. Prodigy Diabetes Care Glucose Monitoring System
- Enables alternate site testing (thigh, forearm, calf) to reduce fingerstick discomfort.
- Requires only 0.7 µL of blood, making it suitable for frequent testing.
- Delivers accurate results in just 7 seconds for timely glucose management.
- Uses glucose oxidase technology with a 3-lead measuring system for consistent readings.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood Glucose Meters
- Prodigy Voice Blood Glucose Meter
- Prodigy Pocket Blood Glucose Meter
- Prodigy AutoCode Blood Glucose Meter
6. Omnis Health Embrace Talk Blood Glucose Monitoring System
- Delivers accurate readings using a three-step verification process for consistency.
- Eliminates manual coding to simplify the testing process.
- Requires just 0.6 µL of blood, minimizing user discomfort.
- Speaks results in English or Spanish, making it ideal for users with visual impairments or multilingual needs.
Where to Buy
Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood Glucose Meters
Important: Caretouch Test Strips Are NOT Interchangeable
None of the options above work with the Caretouch meter. If you still have your device, we recommend you to replace it with a new system to continue testing accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Caretouch test strips still available anywhere?
Officially, no. While some third-party sellers might list them, they are no longer being produced. Any remaining stock may be expired or unsafe.
Can I keep using my Caretouch meter?
Unfortunately, without new test strips, the meter is no longer functional. You will need a new meter that matches the brand of strips you choose.
Are the alternatives as affordable as Caretouch test strips?
Yes! Medicinal Supplies carries several budget-friendly options like MHC EasyTouch, Trividia TRUE METRIX, Unistrip1, Bayer Contour Next, and Prodigy that offer similar value.
Will insurance cover these alternatives?
We operate as an out-of-pocket provider and do not bill or coordinate with insurance plans. If you intend to seek reimbursement, we recommend contacting your insurance provider in advance to verify eligibility for coverage of any glucose monitoring supplies purchased through our store.
Don’t Wait—Find a Replacement Today
Caretouch test strips may be gone, but high-quality, low-cost replacements are available today. Whether you need a backup system or a permanent replacement, MedicinalSupplies.com offers everything you need to continue safe, accurate blood glucose testing without interruption.
