FDA Warning: CGM Alerts on Your Phone May Not Work as Expected

The FDA warns that some users of CGMs and insulin pumps connected to smartphones miss important blood sugar alerts due to phone issues.

Why This Matters

• Your diabetes device sends alerts to warn you about low or high blood sugar. 
• If you don’t hear or receive these alerts, it could lead to serious health risks like:
  • Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  • Severe hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
  • Even death in extreme cases

What Causes the Problem?

The FDA says certain phone settings or updates might block alerts. This can happen if:

• Your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” or “Focus Mode” is on.
• Your CGM app goes into “deep sleep” and stops running.
• You connect new devices (like Bluetooth headphones or a car stereo) that change alert sounds.
• Your phone updates its operating system and the CGM app isn’t ready for it.

What You Should Do

To make sure you don’t miss alerts:

• Check your alert settings regularly.
• Turn off automatic phone updates until your device maker says they’re safe. 
• Test your alerts after updates or adding new accessories.
• Call your CGM or pump’s tech support if alerts stop working.
  Report any problems to the FDA.

The FDA is working with device makers to improve these issues. 

For now, check that your alerts are working—because missing one could be dangerous.