The FDA has approved a new portable device for destroying insulin needles. It uses a small 9.6-volt rechargeable battery to deliver an electrical current that disintegrates the needles.

Called "The Disintegrator," the unit is an alternative to puncture-resistant sharps containers. When a used needle is inserted into an opening on the device and the power button is pressed for a few seconds, the battery produces an arc of electricity that melts the needle tip. It can be used with hypodermic needles that are 5/16 to 1/2 inch long, most insulin pens and disposable insulin syringes from 1/3 to 1 cubic centimeter in volume. The advertised retail price on the manufacturer's web site is $79.00. (www.safeguardmd.com)

Related information Diabetes Supplies Guide

Source:  FDA. New device approval notice, March 15, 2002.