True Metrix Control Solution is used with True Metrix blood glucose meters and True Metrix test strips to verify that the system is working within the expected range. The solution contains a known glucose value, so the meter result can be compared to the printed range on the bottle. Regular control testing helps confirm that meter readings are reliable when monitoring blood glucose.
Control solution testing is part of routine meter quality checks. It can help identify issues related to storage conditions, damaged or expired strips, or a meter that may need service. Using the correct True Metrix control levels with the system supports accurate readings and safer day-to-day diabetes management as directed by a healthcare professional.
When to perform a control solution test
Control solution testing should be done periodically as described in the meter instructions. Additional tests are recommended in situations where accuracy could be affected, such as:
- Starting to use a new meter
- Opening a new vial or lot of test strips
- Leaving the test strip vial cap off for an extended time
- Storing strips outside the recommended temperature range
- Storing strips in high humidity
- Dropping or otherwise damaging the meter
- Getting a result that does not match usual readings or how the person feels
- Suspecting that a test was performed incorrectly
In each of these cases, running control tests can help determine whether the strips and meter are functioning within the expected range before making treatment decisions based on results.
How to perform a control solution test with the True Metrix Pro
Only True Metrix control solution should be used with True Metrix meters and strips. The following steps summarize a quality control test with True Metrix Pro; the meter user guide should be followed for complete instructions.
- Allow the control solution, test strips, and meter to reach room temperature.
- Check the expiration date on the control solution bottle. Do not use after this date. Record the date the bottle is opened. Discard the solution 3 months after opening.
- Check the expiration date on the test strip vial. Do not use strips past this date. Record the date the vial is opened. Discard strips 4 months after opening.
- Gently swirl or invert the control solution. Do not shake.
- Remove one test strip and immediately close the vial.
- Insert the strip into the meter test port. Wait for the meter to turn on and display the blood drop symbol.
- Gently squeeze the control solution bottle until a small drop forms at the tip. Wipe off this drop with a clean tissue product.
- Squeeze again to form a fresh drop.
- Touch the drop to the edge of the test strip sample window so it is drawn into the strip.
- Allow the meter to count down and display the result.
- Compare the result to the control range printed on the control solution bottle. If the value falls within range, the system appears to be working properly.
- Repeat the process using Level 2 control solution (McKesson 06-5051-2) to confirm performance at a second level.
- Repeat with Level 3 control solution if directed or if additional verification is needed.
Note: True Metrix Control Solution Level 3 (McKesson 06-5051-3) may be used in place of Level 2 when performing multiple checks. At least two different levels should be tested to confirm performance across a wider range.
Product features and benefits
- Designed for quality control testing with True Metrix blood glucose meters
- Three control levels to verify performance across a range of values
- Helps identify potential issues with test strips or meter function
- Solution remains usable for up to 3 months after opening when stored as directed
- Not made with natural rubber latex
Product specifications
- Manufacturer: McKesson
- Item numbers: 06-5051-1 (Level 1), 06-5051-2 (Level 2), 06-5051-3 (Level 3)
- Volume: 3 mL per bottle
- Country of origin: United States
- Application: glucose meter control solution
Manuals and documents
Frequently Asked Questions contains answers about control solution use and handling.
- Product Specification Sheet summarizes technical details for True Metrix control solutions.
- Product Safety Data Sheet provides safety and handling information.
- Product Manual for True Metrix Pro includes full instructions for meter and control testing.
Product videos
How to Use a Glucometer (4:54 minutes)
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a control solution test be performed?
Control solution testing should be done periodically according to the meter instructions. It is also recommended when starting to use a new meter, opening a new vial of test strips, if the strip vial cap has been left open, if strips were stored outside the recommended temperature or humidity range, after dropping the meter, when a result does not match how the person feels, or when there is concern that a test may have been performed incorrectly.
How is a control solution test performed with the True Metrix Pro?
To perform a control solution test, follow the steps in the True Metrix Pro user manual. In general, the control solution, meter, and strips are brought to room temperature, expiration dates are checked, and the control solution is gently mixed. A strip is inserted into the meter, a fresh drop of solution is applied to the strip, and the result is compared with the control range printed on the solution bottle. Testing with at least two different control levels helps confirm that the system is working properly.
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