Insulin pumps help people manage diabetes more efficiently, but they aren’t perfect. When these medical devices malfunction or are designed poorly, the results can be dangerous. You deserve to know the risks and your rights. These problems don’t just affect convenience—they can lead to serious medical emergencies and ongoing complications.
Common problems with insulin pumps
Insulin pumps can deliver the wrong amount of insulin. Too much can cause low blood sugar, leading to dizziness or unconsciousness. Too little can result in high blood sugar, which may trigger fatigue, confusion, or long-term damage. Malfunctions often come from software errors, battery failures, or infusion set problems. In some cases, the tubing may kink or the needle may become dislodged, disrupting insulin flow without any warning.
Design flaws and manufacturing defects
Some pumps contain design defects that make them unsafe. For example, a pump may leak or crack easily, which could lead to incorrect dosing. Others have been recalled due to poor seals or faulty alarms that fail to warn users about delivery issues. These flaws can result in severe health complications or hospitalization. Manufacturing problems may also introduce risks during production, such as contamination or faulty materials that reduce the pump’s reliability and safety.
Inadequate instructions or labeling
Clear instructions matter. If the manual or training materials don’t explain how to use the pump correctly, users can make serious mistakes. Some devices may lack proper warnings about side effects or risks. If labeling is unclear or misleading, the manufacturer may be responsible for injuries caused by misuse. Users might not even realize they are using the device incorrectly if the guidance provided is vague or confusing.
When you rely on a medical device, it should work as intended. Faulty insulin pumps can turn daily health management into a danger. Understanding how these devices fail can help you make informed choices and recognize when a product might be defective. If a pump puts your health at risk, it raises serious concerns about accountability and product oversight.
