Are Contour Test Strips Discontinued? 2026 Supply Report
Table of Contents
- What Are "Classic" Contour Test Strips?
- Why is There Confusion About Discontinuation?
- What Does the Number on Your Box Mean?
- FACT: Contour Test Strips Are Still Available
- Where to Buy Original Contour Test Strips
- Alternatives to "Classic" Contour Test Strips
- Final Thoughts: Your Meter is Not Obsolete
- Are Contour Test Strips Discontinued: Products Mentioned
- About Xeteor
- FAQs
If you are holding an older light blue and white Contour meter, you might be panicking because your local pharmacy stopped stocking the strips. Are Contour Test Strips discontinued? The short answer is NO.
However, the supply chain has changed significantly in 2026, creating the illusion that they are gone. Most national retail chains have shifted their shelf space to newer generation products, but the original legacy strips are still being manufactured and are in stable supply online. To help you navigate these changes, we have created a comprehensive Original Bayer Contour Test Strips: 2026 Supply & Compatibility Guide.
⚠️ April 2026 Update: Bayer Contour Test Strips - Supply Status
We are actively monitoring the availability of original legacy Bayer Contour test strips within the distribution channel. While many regional variations are gone, here is the current status:
Bayer Contour Test Strips - 7080G: ✅ Stable Supply
Bayer Contour Test Strips - 7097C: ❌ Unavailable
Bayer Contour Test Strips - 7098C: ❌ Unavailable
Bayer Contour Test Strips - 7090G: ❌ Unavailable
Note: All orders over $30 qualify for free nationwide shipping. Most original Bayer Contour orders are delivered in an average of 3.3 business days.
COMPATIBILITY ALERT
You cannot use Contour NEXT strips in an original meter. The technologies are different and using the wrong strip will result in an error code. To ensure you are buying the correct strips, please visit our Contour Compatibility Guide.
What Are "Classic" Contour Test Strips?
Contour Test Strips, which are different from the newer Contour NEXT Test Strips, are the first-generation monitoring system originally made by Bayer. While Ascensia acquired the brand in 2016, they continue to produce these original strips for users of legacy meters like the Contour USB, Contour Link, and Didget systems.
Why is There Confusion About Discontinuation?
There are several reasons why many people wrongly believe these strips have been discontinued:
- Discontinued Model Numbers: Specific "Insurance" and "Medicare" boxes like the 7097C and 7098C have been phased out of the distribution channel. This has led many to believe the entire line is gone.
- Retail Priorities: National retailers like Amazon and CVS have prioritized the "Next" line, often leaving the original strips out of stock or removing the listings entirely.
- Discontinued Meters: While the original Contour meters are no longer being manufactured, Ascensia continues to produce the test strips to support the large number of seniors and pump users who still rely on them.
What Does the Number on Your Box Mean?
If you are looking at your old box and see 7097C or 7098C, do not worry. As shown in the graphic below, the strips inside are identical to the 7080G Retail model. The numbers simply tell the manufacturer which sales channel the strips were originally intended for.
FACT: Contour Test Strips Are Still Available
Contour Test Strips are still being manufactured and are widely available if you know where to look. While it is hard to find them at local pharmacy counters, online specialists continue to stock them. To see a full breakdown of current market availability, visit our Bayer Contour Pricing Guide.
Where to Buy Original Contour Test Strips
If you are having trouble finding your strips, follow these tips:
- Avoid the Big Chains: Many retailers like CVS and Walgreens now charge over $70 per box because they treat these as specialty items.
- Check Specialized Online Retailers: Specialists often carry the "Retail" 7080G version in bulk packs, which significantly lowers the price per box.
| Store / Pack Size | Total Price | Price Per Box | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| xeteor.com (12-Pack) | $479.99 | $40.00 | In Stock |
| xeteor.com (2-Pack) ⭐ MOST POPULAR | $94.99 | $47.50 | In Stock |
| xeteor.com (Single Box) | $49.99 | $49.99 | In Stock |
Alternatives to "Classic" Contour Test Strips
If you are eventually ready to upgrade your meter, you have two primary options:
- Switch to a Contour NEXT Meter: This is the most popular path because the Next strips are widely available at every pharmacy and the meters are very affordable.
- Other Reputable Brands: Brands like OneTouch, Accu-Chek, and CareSens offer reliable alternatives, though switching usually requires a new meter and a new testing routine.
Final Thoughts: Your Meter is Not Obsolete
It is understandable to be concerned when you see empty shelves at your local store. However, you do not need to be forced into a meter upgrade you do not want. As long as you can source the original 7080G strips, your "tried and true" meter will continue to work perfectly.
Need Help with Compatibility?
If you are unsure which strip fits your legacy meter, reach out to our team at 1-833-787-4777 (M-F, 9 AM-5 PM PST). We are happy to help you find the right model number for your device.
Are Contour Test Strips Discontinued: Products Mentioned
Bayer Ascensia Contour 50 Blood Glucose Test Strips
$49.99
Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Test Strips – 50 Count Direct Replacement for 7097C and 7098C (Model 7080G) Get accurate results with Bayer Contour Blood Glucose...… read more
View ProductBayer Ascensia Contour 50 Blood Glucose Test Strips (2 Pack)
$94.99
Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Test Strips – 50 Count (2 Pack) Direct Replacement for 7097C and 7098C (Model 7080G) Stock up and save with this...… read more
View ProductBayer Ascensia Contour 50 Blood Glucose Test Strips (4 Pack)
$179.99
Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Test Strips – 50 Count (4 Pack) Direct Replacement for 7097C and 7098C (Model 7080G) Maximize your savings and ensure you...… read more
View ProductBayer Ascensia Contour 50 Blood Glucose Test Strips (6 Pack)
$257.99
Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Test Strips – 50 Count (6 Pack) Direct Replacement for 7097C and 7098C (Model 7080G) Stick with the tools you trust...… read more
View ProductBayer Ascensia Contour 50 Blood Glucose Test Strips (12 Pack)
$479.99
Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Test Strips – 50 Count (12 Pack) Direct Replacement for 7097C and 7098C (Model 7080G) Get the absolute best value with...… read more
View ProductAbout Xeteor
xeteor.com, founded in Las Vegas in 2018, is a trusted online guide and curated retailer specializing in generic over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and pharmacy store-brand alternatives. We operate like a family-owned business, prioritizing Supply Chain Stability and manufacturing transparency so customers can understand exactly what is behind the label.
Our product analysis is led by Joe, the Head Xeteorologist, whose “Joe’s Translation” insights help explain how generic medicines are sourced, manufactured, and labeled across the OTC market.
We are the creators of the Xeteor Rx Quality Ladder and the Premium vs. Value curation strategy. These frameworks help evaluate manufacturing consistency, supply chain reliability, and product quality across the OTC market.
Our portfolio includes:
- Premium Generics: GoodSense and Foster & Thrive.
- Specialist Brands: Geri-Care, Reliable 1 Laboratories, Oncor Pharmaceuticals, Health Star, and CareSens.
- Value Generics: Major Pharmaceuticals and Rugby Laboratories.
Recognized as a Top Rated seller on Trustpilot, Google, eBay, Amazon, and Walmart, we strive to be the authoritative source for honest generic drug guidance. Our mission is to empower customers with reliable products and clear educational content, supported by a U.S.-based team that provides real human assistance and secure, senior-friendly payment options.
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Disclaimer: All generic medications approved by the FDA are considered safe and effective. The Xeteor Rx Quality Ladder creates a hierarchy based on manufacturing consistency, supply chain stability, and country of origin; it does not imply medical superiority. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Important: Xeteor.com is a retailer of Over-the-Counter (OTC) products only. We do not sell, dispense, or fulfill prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Ascensia Contour test strips been discontinued?
No, as of May 2025, Contour test strips are still available at Walgrees, Walmart and up to 35% off at xeteor.com.
Can you use generic test strips with Contour meters?
No, there are no available generic Contour test strips.
Can you buy Contour test strips over the counter?
Yes, Contour test strips can be purchased over the counter and without a prescription both at the pharmacy and online.
What is the price of one box of Contour 50 test strips?
As of May 2025, the price for one box of Contour test strips is $73.99 at Walgreens, $61.98 at Walmart and $49.99 at xeteor.com.
Why are Contour test strips so expensive?
Contour test strips have been become expensive for a few reasons:
- There is less supply - Ascensia stopped making Contour 7097C and 7098C test strips available to consumers.
- Currently Contour 7080G the most expensive box is the only option for consumers paying out of pocket for their test strips.
What does the number 7097C mean on Contour test strip boxes?
The numbers on the Contour test strip boxes show the sales channel the box is meant for:
- 7097C - Medicare and Medicaid
- 7098C - Health Insurance
- 7080G - Retail Pharmacy
