CoaguChek brand PT Test Strips; U.S. catalog number 3116247 (professional use), 3116239 (patient self test), ex-U.S. catalog numbers 1937642 [packaged 48 strips per box] and 1937634 [packaged 12 strips per box].

Erroneous patient results: may be falsely elevated or lowered, due to a packaging defect that allows air and moisture to enter the sealed pouch.

Urgent recall letters dated 9/12/03 were sent to customers of 2 lots on 9/12/03 instructing them to cease using the recalled lots and to inform the attending physician of any patients diagnosed using these lots. Distributors were asked to forward the letter to all customers who had received CoaguChek test strips or system care products. A copy of the recall notification was sent to the entire professional customer list reminding them to always inspect the product for seal integrity. The recall was extended to all lots via 9/26/03 press release. Recall letters were sent to all professional and home users on or about 10/1/03 advising them to inspect the package seal, to run each sample twice (with two test strips). Home users were asked to notify their physician of the problem.