AFL device image v2
stelo sensor

Summary

The FreeStyle Libre 14-day is an all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter that lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. . This sensor is a flash glucose monitor that requires scanning using a compatible smartphone app or a handheld reader. 

FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).

 

MARD of 9.4%

Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter. This sensor lasts for up to 15 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app. No finger pricks or scanning is needed. 

*Recently FDA approved for people 18 years or older with type 2 diabetes. Expected availability is summer 2024.  

MARD of 9.2% 

Components

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

N/A

Device Details

Overview

All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter can be worn on the upper arm. 

Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Pricing is to be announced in summer 2024. Price expected to be low to allow for over the counter distribution. 

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatic data transfer to LibreView each time Freestyle Libre 2 sensor is scanned. LibreView gives clinicians and users relevant glucose reports. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data. 

To Be Announced 

Data View Options

Yes
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device. 

To Be Announced 

Duration and Storage

14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.

15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

YES text-to-speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it. 

Waterproof when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device. This device is intended to help people with non-insulin requiring type 2 diabetes better understand their blood sugar numbers. 

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Alerts are not available. High or low glucose alarms are not available. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Very limited alerts. This device does not provide alarms and alerts for high, low, and rise/fall rates. This device is intended to track and understand the effects of food on blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.

Comfort

Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.

No options. Stelo is intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes who do not require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels. 

Easy to Use

Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only. 

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly. 

Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing.