Why is Freestyle Libre 3 the best?

Whether we talk about the size, ease of use, accuracy, or reliability, Freestyle Libre 3 takes the edge!

What is a CGM?

CGM means continuous glucose monitor. As the name suggests, it provides you with continuous glucose readings. The best part is you don’t need to prick your fingers each time you want to check your blood sugar levels. Moreover, with the latest CGM devices, you can use your compatible smartphone to see your glucose readings and all those blood sugar trends.

Even that’s not all, you can even set customized alarms and save yourself from going extremely low or extremely high on sugar levels. Moreover, some of the latest CGM devices like Freestyle Libre 3 work with automatic insulin delivery systems as well, such as Freestyle Libre 2 Plus works with Tandem t:slim X2 insulin pump in the USA.

Freestyle Libre 3 Size:

The Libre 3 is the world’s first smallest and most discreet sensor, just about the size of two stacked pennies joined together – to be exact 2.9 mm height x 21 mm diameter. The Freestyle Libre 3 transmitter is attached to the sensor. This means the transmitter is pre-assembled and you only need to insert the sensor.

Water-resistant:

Take a shower or go for a jog without worrying about the sensor you are wearing. The water-resistant Freestyle Libre 3 sensor commonly known as 14 days sensor can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes, and the sensor would remain unaffected. However, an overlay patch is still recommended to make sure the sensor remains intact.

Accuracy:

The Freestyle Libre 3 Sensor accuracy is brilliant. It shows a MARD (mean absolute relative difference) of 7.9%. This should be kept in mind that the lower the MARD value is the better results you get.

Reliability & Range:

When talking about reliability, getting the user’s point of view is the most important. On getting reviews, most of the  Libre 3 sensor users were satisfied with its results. The Libre 3 transmitter range is 33 feet which is good enough. However, if you are out of this range you may not receive your glucose alarms.

Life span:

A Libre 3 sensor lasts for up to 14 days time span which is good enough as compared to other CGM devices that last up to 10 days or so.

Freestyle Libre 3 reader:

Unlike old readers or some different readers which may require scanning. Freestyle Libre 3 reader does not require any scanning. Once activated, the Freestyle Libre 3 sensor will automatically send your glucose readings to the reader. Moreover, this reader has a built-in blood glucose meter as well.

Libre 3 reader offers 2 languages, English and Spanish. You may change your reader language by going to the ‘Settings’ menu within the reader.

The only visible drawback for US users:

In the USA, the Libre 3 is not compatible with automatic insulin delivery systems. In case you are looking for a CGM that integrates with automatic insulin pumps, you may like the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor which is compatible with Tandem t:slim X2 automatic insulin delivery system.

Freestyle Libre 3 Price:

Prices may vary based on certain factors, including your location and the medium of buying. If you buy Libre 3 sensor monthly subscription online using a Debit/Credit card (without insurance), it can cost you between $195 to $225 per month. CGM Monitors offers Libre 3 monthly subscriptions for as low as $198 / month.

If you want to claim one through your insurance company, the costs can be different. Check your eligibility now.

Conclusion:

This blog includes some features of Freestyle Libre 3 which have been liked by many users. This includes the size, working, and reliability of Libre 3 sensors. This does not mean that other sensors are not good enough, rather, it only reflects some of the best things offered by  Libre 3 .

This information is only based on some research and is intended for informational purposes. Please always consult your doctor before taking any medical action.