libre 3 device image
device syringe insulin

Summary

The FreeStyle Libre 3 is the smallest, thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter CGM and lasts 14 days. This sensor sends minute-by-minute glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app and only needs fingersticks as backup. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

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

 

MARD of 7.9%.

Traditional syringe and needle. The most affordable insulin delivery option. 

Components

Freestyle Libre 3 : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 3 : 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 3 : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 3 : Receiver

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

Syringe and Vial : Bolus Insulin

Syringe and Vial : Bolus Insulin

Bolus (fast-acting) insulin vial for meal time or high blood sugar correction.

Syringe and Vial : Basal Insulin

Syringe and Vial : Basal Insulin

Basal (long-acting) insulin vial for steady release of insulin that helps control blood sugar between meals, and overnight.

Syringe and Vial : Needles

Syringe and Vial : Needles

Classic syringes with plunger used to fill insulin for injection

Device Details

Overview

Smallest, thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.

Nothing on the body when not in use but very visible when dosing. 

Affordability and Access

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

$$$$
Syringes are available worldwide in pharmacies or DME without prescription. Price Range: $0-$300/month depending on insurance coverage.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Sensor automatically sends data to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers.

No Options

Data View Options

Yes
Freestyle Libre 3 app or Libre by Abbott provides glucose readings and alarms, multiple data views, the ability to share glucose data and real-time alarms with LibreLinkUp, and the ability to connect to a clinician's practice through LibreView. 

No Options

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.

28 Days 
Open vials can be stored at room temperature (not above 80º F) for up to 28 days. Unopened vials should be stored in the refrigerator (36ºF - 86ºF.) 

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
A LOT
 dexterity for insertion

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. 

Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Limited customizability. Requires a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows but can be paired with a CGM for improved blood sugar control. 

Comfort

Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive (about the size of two stacked U.S pennies). 

Many components. Must carry insulin vials and large syringes but nothing attached to the body. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.

Requires attention. You have to do the math to figure out your dose. Unable to adjust basal in real-time.

Easy to Use

No scanning required. Minute-by-minute readings are sent directly to the mobile app. 

Many steps. Requires effort to figure out doses and deliver insulin every single time you need it.

Fewer Fingersticks

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

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet size but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on. 

Hideable. Vials and syringes can be hidden when not in use but very visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.