Product: ACCU-CHEK FastClix
Manufacturer: Roche Diabetes Care
(800) 858-8072
www.accu-chek.com
What it does: The ACCU-CHEK FastClix lancing device works with the ACCU-CHEK FastClix lancet drum, which is preloaded with six lancets. The Comfort Dial at the bottom of the lancing device allows the user a choice of 11 different depth settings that determine how far the lancet penetrates into the skin. A lancet counter at the bottom of the device shows how many lancets are left. To use the lancing device with alternate sites, call the ACCU-CHEK Customer Care Service Center at (800) 858-8072 to receive a free alternate site testing cap that fits over the front of the device.
Availability: The ACCU-CHEK FastClix is available from the ACCU-CHEK eStore (www.accu-chek.com/us/estore/index.html) and from pharmacies.
Syringe
Product: BD Insulin Syringes
Manufacturer: BD Diabetes
(888) BDCARES (232-2737)
www.bd.com
What it does: BD insulin syringes have been redesigned this year with new 6-mm Ultra-Fine needles, designed to cause less pain and to reduce the risk of accidentally injecting medicine into muscle.
Availability: BD insulin syringes are available at pharmacies and from online retailers.
Hypoglycemia treatments
Product: Level Life Glucose Gel
Manufacturer: Level Foods
(888) 355-2220
www.levelfoods.com
What it does: Level Life Glucose Gel is a new version of the Gluco-Pouch, which was included in “Tools of the Trade” in 2011. Level Life still contains 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate in a pouch designed to be strong, yet easy to open; however, the product’s formula has changed, and it is now available in four flavors.
Availability: Level Life products are available at Walmart, Rite Aid, and CVS stores.
Product: Quick Sticks
Manufacturer: Quick Sticks
(888) 543-0052
www.quicksticks.com
What it does: Each Quick Sticks pouch contains 10 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate in powder form, as well as 230% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vitamin C. Quick Sticks come in watermelon and sour apple flavors.
Availability: Quick Sticks are available from the Quick Sticks online store; find your nearest distributor at www.quicksticks.com/where-to-buy.
Drugs
Product: Avanafil (Stendra)
Manufacturer: Vivus, Inc.
(650) 934-5200
www.stendra.com
What it does Stendra joins sildenafil (Viagra and others), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra and others) in the PDE5 inhibitor class of drugs, prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction and certain other conditions. These drugs work by blocking the function of a specific enzyme in the blood vessels; this allows blood vessels to expand and improves blood flow. For men with erectile dysfunction, this translates to improved ability to maintain an erection. Do not take Stendra if you are also taking nitrates for chest pain; if you experience a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing, contact your doctor immediately. Headache, flushing, runny nose, and congestion are the most commonly reported side effects of Stendra.
