What is Needed to Start
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.
Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Watch and Learn
How to Apply the Freestyle Libre 14 day Sensor
Chef Robert Lewis: Understanding Food with FreeStyle Libre 14 day
Using the FreeStyle Libre 14 day
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
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.
Data View Options
Yes
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device.
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.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.
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.
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.
Easy to Use
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my patient starts on a Freestyle Libre 2, how can I get support with the product?
Freestyle Libre Customer Care Team:
1-855-632-8658
Monday - Sunday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM EST; excluding holidays
Visit MyFreeStyle Providers for more information
Where can I read up to date evidence about Freestyle Libre 2?
"Meta-analysis of RWE confirms that using the FreeStyle Libre system is associated with significant reductions in HbA1c for adults with T1DM or with T2DM. Reductions are greater for people with higher baseline HbA1c and are sustained for 24 and 12 months in T1DM and TD2M respectively."
Reductions in HbA1c with Flash Glucose Monitoring Sustained for up to 24 Months: A Meta-Analysis of 75 Real-World Observational Studies 2022
Evans, Mark, et al.
"Interstitial glucose measurements with the FreeStyle Libre system were found to be accurate compared with capillary BG reference values, with accuracy remaining stable over 14 days of wear and unaffected by patient characteristics."
The Performance and Usability of a Factory-Calibrated Flash Glucose Monitoring System. 2015.
Timothy Bailey, MD., et. al.