The medtech giant’s notice includes models of the MiniMed 640G, 670G, 720G, 740G, 770G and 780G insulin pumps.
During quality testing performed by Medtronic, the company said it recently found that changes in air pressure can cause unintended insulin delivery. For example, air pressure can change rapidly during flight. This may, in turn, cause the expansion of tiny air bubbles inside the insulin reservoir.
When pressure decreases (for example, during flight takeoff), the pump may release more insulin than expected. Unintended insulin may release even if the user suspends pump delivery or programs it to zero units per hour. When air pressure increases (like during landing), less insulin may release than expected.
Changing air pressure conditions can potentially lead to hypoglycemia (due to more insulin delivered) or hyperglycemia (due to less). Between July 2003 and May 2024, Medtronic received 138 complaints potentially related to this issue. Of those complaints, 19 reported serious injuries. However, Medtronic said none of the complaints were confirmed to be related to this issue.
The company stressed the importance of monitoring glucose frequently while flying. Medtronic said customers should remain prepared to treat hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. The company advised users to check glucose during other activities, too, like amusement park rides or other situations where sudden changes or extremes of air pressure, altitude or gravity may occur. They should also keep an emergency kit with rapid-acting glucose and backup insulin therapy available at all times.
