Contour Next Test Strips: Compatibility, Expiration, and What to Do With Extras

If you use a Contour Next meter, the test strips are something you'll probably see every day. But when it's time to switch meters, clean out a cabinet, or figure out what to do with unopened boxes, a few questions tend to come up.

Which meters actually use Contour Next test strips? How important is the expiration date? And if you have factory-sealed boxes you no longer need, can you sell them instead of letting them expire?

Here's what to know about compatibility, expiration dates, storage, and what to check before doing anything with extra Contour Next glucose test strips.

What Are Contour Next Test Strips?

Contour Next test strips are blood glucose test strips made for use with compatible Contour Next blood glucose meters.

Like other glucose test strips, they're designed to work as part of a specific monitoring system. You insert a strip into the compatible meter, apply the blood sample according to the product instructions, and the meter processes the sample to provide a glucose reading.

That compatibility is important. A test strip isn't simply a generic accessory that can be used with any glucose meter.

Which Meters Use Contour Next Test Strips?

According to the current manufacturer instructions, Contour Next test strips are designed for use with several meters in the Contour Next family.

These include:

• Contour Next GEN
• Contour Next
• Contour Next EZ
• Contour Next USB
• Contour Next ONE
• Contour Next LINK
• Contour Next LINK 2.4

Ascensia also states that Contour Next test strips should be used with Contour Next meters.

If you're ever unsure about a particular meter, check the current meter instructions or manufacturer information rather than assuming compatibility based only on the Contour name.

Why Does Test Strip Compatibility Matter?

Glucose meters and test strips are designed to work together as a system. That's why manufacturers specify which strips should be used with each meter.

It's also an easy detail to overlook. Someone switching from one meter to another may have unopened strips left over, but those strips may not be intended for the new meter.

Before using any test strip, follow the instructions for your specific glucose meter and confirm you're using the test strips recommended by its manufacturer.

And if a meter change leaves you with unopened boxes you no longer need, don't immediately throw them away. Depending on the exact product and condition, they may still have value.

Where Is the Expiration Date on Contour Next Test Strips?

If you have an extra box, checking the expiration information should be one of your first steps.

Look closely at the product packaging and vial for the applicable expiration information, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and storage.

Expiration matters for another reason if you're planning to sell unused strips. Buyers may have specific requirements based on how much time remains before the product expires.

Those requirements can vary, so don't assume every buyer follows the same cutoff.

Test Strip Buyers explains more about how expiration dates can affect test strip payouts and why checking sooner can matter.

How Should Contour Next Test Strips Be Stored?

Storage matters with test strips, so it's best to follow the instructions provided with your specific product.

As a general rule, keep your test strips in their original container and follow the manufacturer's specified temperature and handling requirements. Protect them from inappropriate heat, moisture, and other conditions that could affect the product.

If you have unopened boxes you're hoping to sell later, protecting the outer packaging matters too.

A box that's crushed, torn, wet, heavily marked, or otherwise damaged may be treated differently from one that's still in good condition.

Why Do People End Up With Extra Contour Next Test Strips?

Having extra test strips isn't unusual.

You might switch meters while you still have unopened boxes from the previous system. Your prescription or testing routine might change. Or you may simply find supplies that you know you aren't going to use before they're no longer needed.

Whatever the reason, it's worth checking unopened boxes before leaving them in a cabinet indefinitely.

If they're eligible and still meet a buyer's requirements, selling unused diabetic supplies can be an alternative to letting them sit until they're no longer accepted.

What Should You Check Before Selling Contour Next Test Strips?

If you have unused Contour Next test strips, take a minute to inspect the boxes before requesting a quote.

Check:

• The exact product name
• The number of strips in each box
• The expiration information
• Whether the product is factory sealed
• The overall condition of the packaging
• Any product identifiers shown on the box

The box count is particularly important with Contour Next.

Test Strip Buyers currently has separate listings for Contour Next 25-count, 50-count, and 100-count boxes, along with a separate listing for the 50-count Red Stripe box. Those aren't all treated as one generic Contour Next product.

In fact, the current 50-count retail listing specifically says not to send the yellow- or red-stripe version under that listing, while the Red Stripe box has its own product page.

That's a good example of why you should always match the exact box in your hands to the current catalog rather than choosing the first listing with the same brand name.

Have Extra Contour Next Test Strips?

If you've switched meters or simply have unopened Contour Next glucose test strips you no longer need, start by checking exactly what you have.

Look at the quantity, expiration information, packaging condition, and exact version of the box. Then compare those details with the current buyer listing.

Don't rely on an old payout amount you found online. Test Strip Buyers notes that prices can change, and all boxes are inspected after they're received.

Check the current Contour Next listings at Test Strip Buyers to see whether your exact boxes are currently accepted and what the current offer is.