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Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has added ease to diabetes management by providing real-time glucose data without the need for fingerpricks, enabling better control and decision-making. When talking about the CGM market in the USA, Abbott and Dexcom fall among the top players. In 2014, these fingerprick-free Freestyle Libre 2 Sensors were introduced in Europe by Abbott, following great success these sensors were introduced in the United States in 2018, and later in numerous other countries.
All about Freestyle Libre 2 Sensors
The compact Freestyle Libre 2 sensors are approximately the size of two quarters stacked together; to be exact, they are 5 mm in height and 35 mm in diameter. Tested and typically worn at the back of the upper arm, these CGM sensors detect your blood sugar levels from interstitial blood, providing minute-to-minute glucose readings on your Freestyle Libre 2 reader or a compatible smartphone. Just touch the monitor on the sensor and see your glucose readings anytime anywhere.
The accuracy of CGM sensors is measured in Mean Absolute Relative Difference (MARD), and lower MARD values indicate higher accuracy. FDA has approved continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) with a mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of less than 10%.
Will my Insurance Plan cover a CGM?
For those using insurance, many plans cover Freestyle Libre 2, but eligibility often requires a prescription and proof of diabetes diagnosis. Get a free eligibility check now.
Freestyle Libre 2 Sensors Accuracy:
Libre 2 sensors have a MARD value of approximately 9.2%, thus these sensors are accurate and have FDA approval as well.
Share Glucose Data:
Glucose data can be shared with up to 20 caregivers, including friends, family, and doctors, using Abbott’s LibreLinkUp app.
Water-Resistant:
The water-resistant Freestyle Libre 2 sensors can be submerged in up to 3 feet (1 meter) of water for 30 minutes, making them suitable for showers, swimming, and everyday activities.
Automatic Insulin Delivery System:
Freestyle Libre 2 sensors are not compatible with automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems. Abbott’s newer models, like Freestyle Libre 3 Plus, are designed for compatibility with select AID systems.
Suitable Users:
Approved for individuals 4 years and older.
Suitable for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes management.
Placement suggestions: Tested and approved to be applied on the back of your upper arm.
Please note that although users have tried different places, e.g.; the abdomen, this sensor is only tested and approved to be applied on the back of the upper arm.
Common Errors and Solutions
Freestyle Libre 2 sensors may occasionally display error codes or face connection issues. Below are common problems and solutions:
- Error 373: Sensor not communicating.
Solution: Restart the reader or smartphone app and ensure the sensor is within range. - Error 374: Sensor too warm.
Solution: Avoid exposing the sensor to extreme heat or direct sunlight. Allow the sensor to cool down before attempting to scan again. - Error 375: Sensor too cold.
Solution: Allow the sensor to return to room temperature before scanning. Avoid exposing the sensor to extreme cold. - Error 418: Expired sensor.
Solution: Replace the sensor with a new one.
For detailed troubleshooting, refer to Abbott’s official support page.
Latest Freestyle CGMs in the USA
While there were some sensors released after Freestyle Libre 2, the latest by Abbott are Freestyle Libre 2 Plus and Freestyle Libre 3 Plus systems. These new sensors offer improved accuracy, are smaller in size, and are compatible with leading Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems. For example, Libre 2 Plus integrates with the Omnipod 5 and T Slim X2 Control IQ, while Libre 3 Plus is compatible with the iLet Bionic Pancreas—some of the latest AID systems.
Why CGM Monitors?
CGM Monitors is a trusted diabetic supplier in the USA, offering flexible payment options. You can check out your eligibility for a specific device and if you simply cannot get it on insurance, we have it for you on cash (using your debit/credit card). With reliable customer support, supply re-ordering, and free delivery all over the USA, CGM Monitors makes no compromises on managing your diabetes effectively.
Conclusion:
Freestyle Libre 2 sensors provide a practical, user-friendly solution for diabetes management. Their accuracy, durability, and fingerprick-free monitoring made them successful among diabetic people. While Libre 2 provides a good value, the newer versions such as Libre 3 Plus and Libre 2 Plus are famous for providing the best value by not only delivering higher accuracy but by being water-proof, AID-compatible, and the smallest CGM sensors in the world. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has added ease to diabetes management by providing real-time glucose data without the need for fingerpricks, enabling better control and decision-making. When talking about the CGM market in the USA, Abbott and Dexcom fall among the top players. In 2014, these fingerprick-free Freestyle Libre 2 Sensors were introduced in Europe by Abbott, following great success these sensors were introduced in the United States in 2018, and later in numerous other countries.
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