Table 2.

Canadian Diabetes Association 2013 recommendations for situations where increased frequency of SMBG may be required¹⁶

Situation	SMBG recommendation
Using drugs known to cause hypoglycemia (e.g., sulfonylureas, meglitinides)	SMBG at times when symptoms of hypoglycemia occur or at times when hypoglycemia has previously occurred
Has an occupation that requires strict avoidance of hypoglycemia	SMBG as often as is required by employer
Not meeting glycemic targets	SMBG ≥2 times per day, to assist in lifestyle and/or medication changes until such time as glycemic targets are met
Newly diagnosed with diabetes (<6 months)	SMBG ≥1 time per day (at different times of day) to learn the effects of various meals, exercise and/or medications on blood glucose
Treated with lifestyle and oral agents AND is meeting glycemic targets	Some people with diabetes might benefit from very infrequent checking (SMBG once or twice per week) to ensure that glycemic targets are being met between A1C tests

Reproduced with permission from Elsevier Limited. SMBG, self-monitoring of blood glucose.