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
Intro to Freestyle Libre 2
How to Apply the Sensor
Using the Freestyle Libre 2
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
After each sensor scan with the mobile app or reader, data is automatically sent to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers via the LibreLinkUp app. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.
Data View Options
Yes
Freestyle Libre 2 app 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.
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.
Overview
All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Low profile sensor and small adhesive.
Overall
All in one sensor/transmitter can be worn in multiple places under the clothes. Sensor does not communicate continuously with the reader; you have to scan the sensor to get a reading.
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
Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Easy to Use
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning are required. Easy self-application.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Scanned sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only.
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.
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.
"The System demonstrated improved analytical accuracy performance across the dynamic range during the 14-day sensor wear period as compared to the previous-generation device."
Accuracy of a 14-Day Factory-Calibrated Continuous Glucose Monitoring System With Advanced Algorithm in Pediatric and Adult Population With Diabetes. 2020
Alva, Shridhara et al.
"Flash glucose monitoring has great potential for the management of type 1 diabetes in the adult population and improving metabolic control/quality of life for people across the world. The technology provides significantly more data than the intermittent results obtained by traditional subcutaneous blood glucose monitoring, which may not capture intervals of extreme variability or nocturnal events."
The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system: how it has improved glycaemic control for people with type 1 diabetes in Eastern Cheshire, UK 2020
Yadegarfar G, Anderson SG, Khawaja Z, Cortes G, Leivesley K, Metters A, Horne L, Steele T, Heald AH.