Faulty Abbott Glucose Monitors Linked to Fatalities
#diabetes #glucose_monitoring #fda #abbott
FDA warns about faulty Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors linked to deaths and injuries; replacement devices available.
Abbott Laboratories is a global healthcare company founded in 1888 by Dr. Wallace Abbott, a practicing physician and drugstore owner in Chicago. Initially named Abbott Alkaloidal Company, it pioneered the formulation of "dosimetric granules," standardized doses of active medicinal alkaloids, improving drug consistency and effectiveness. Over more than 130 years, Abbott has evolved into a diversified leader in medical devices, diagnostics, nutrition, and branded generic pharmaceuticals, employing around 113,000 people across over 160 countries with headquarters still in Chicago[1][2][3]. Abbott’s historical milestones include early international expansion in 1907 with an office in London and significant product innovations such as the first synthetic medicine Chlorazene in 1916, the introduction of Pentothal in 1935, and the development of blood chemistry analyzers in the 1970s. Abbott played a critical role during World War I and II by producing essential drugs like penicillin. The company has continuously expanded through acquisitions, notably purchasing St. Jude Medical and Alere Inc. in 2017 for over $28 billion, significantly boosting its cardiovascular and diagnostics portfolios[1][2][3][9]. Key achievements include FDA approvals of breakthrough products such as Humira (2002), glucose monitoring systems like FreeStyle Libre (2014), and recent innovations in cardiac devices like the Aveir DR approved in 2023. Abbott also responded rapidly to the COVID-19 pandemic by launching multiple diagnostic tests. It has maintained leadership in diabetes care, cardiovascular health, and laboratory diagnostics while expanding nutritional products like Similac and Ensure under its brand umbrella[1][2][5][6][8]. Currently led by CEO Robert B. Ford, Abbott continues to leverage science and innovation to improve global health outcomes. It is recognized for adapting swiftly to technological advances and shifting healthcare needs, holding a strong position in the competitive healthcare market with a commitment to accessible, high-quality medical solutions worldwide[2]
#diabetes #glucose_monitoring #fda #abbott
FDA warns about faulty Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors linked to deaths and injuries; replacement devices available.