Medtronic, Inc and Bayer Diabetes Care, a division of Bayer HealthCare LLC and a member of the Bayer Group, announced an alliance to distribute and co-market a new blood glucose meter for Medtronic patients outside the United States beginning in Canada and Europe.

The new meter, based upon Bayer's Contour meter platform, will wirelessly transmit blood glucose test results directly to MiniMed Paradigm insulin pumps and the Guardian Real-Time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. Wireless communications make data entry easier and more convenient for patients.

As part of the agreement, Bayer Diabetes Care acquires exclusive rights to Medtronic's proprietary wireless communications protocol in certain markets outside the United States. The new meter will initially be introduced in Canada and Germany, followed by a phased rollout in other European countries and in further countries as agreed upon by the companies. Details of the financial terms of the agreement are not being disclosed.

"Bayer's strong presence in key markets such as Canada, Europe, Latin America and Asia enables Medtronic to reach more diabetes patients with its advanced technologies," said Sandra Peterson, President of Bayer Diabetes Care. "This alliance also supports our commitment to helping Medtronic customers maintain good health through frequent glucose testing."

"Offering this new meter with our insulin pumps and real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems will improve quality of life and ease of use for many of our patients," said Chris O'Connell, President of Medtronic's diabetes business. "Our new alliance allows us to bring trusted, state-of-the-art solutions to Medtronic patients who strive for the best possible diabetes management."