Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre Systems
The FreeStyle Libre has been on the market for several years now, and used by a ton of folks living with diabetes worldwide. The sensor lasts two weeks, and the user can get a glucose value by scanning the sensor (typically worn on the back of the upper arm) with a reader or a smart phone. The current glucose value (which is measured every minute) is displayed upon scanning, along with a trend arrow indicating the direction of glucose change and a tracing of the glucose numbers over the last eight hours. The data can also be downloaded for more extensive analysis such as mean glucose, glucose management indicator (GMI), time in range (TIR), etc. for the person living with diabetes primarily and his or her health care provider secondarily.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 Has Several Advancements:
1. Customizable, Optional Real-Time Alarms
This in my opinion is the biggest advancement of the FreeStyle Libre 2. Your low alarm can be set between 60-100 mg/dl and your high alert between 120 and 400mg/dl. The user will get an auditory alert (or a vibration) which will prompt him or her to scan their sensor with the reader to get the glucose value. These alerts are optional and all of them can be turned off. For folks with T1D, these alerts are essential to improve your TIR and importantly time below range (TBR). I suggest the low alert for most people to be 80mg/dl as there may be a lag period on the way down, meaning that when you hit your low alert level you may be in reality significantly lower depending on how fast you are dropping. The high alert for most folks should be 180 to 200mg/dl. There are circumstances when you may want to alter these alerts depending on individual circumstances.
2. iCGM Designation
The FreeStyle Libre 2 received the iCGM designation from the FDA, which means there can be digital communication between the FreeStyle Libre 2 and other devices such as smart phones, insulin pumps, smart pens, etc. At the current time, the FreeStyle Libre 2 is not indicated to be used in automated insulin delivery systems (e.g. hybrid closed loop) because of vitamin C supplement effects on glucose readings (it can give an artificially high value with large doses of vitamin C). Once that issue is addressed, it will likely be able to be used with hybrid closed loop systems. Collaborations with Tandem, Insulet and Bigfoot have been announced already.
3. Approved for Kids as Young as 4 Years Old
In reality, parents of very young kids have been using these CGM devices as young as 4 months old and it has been nothing short of a godsend!
The FreeStyle Libre 2 has the same lower price point as the first FreeStyle Libre system, and can be acquired from pharmacies with a prescription. You will need a new FreeStyle Libre 2 reader and sensors, and the smart phone app (to replace the need for the reader) will be coming soon. Please visit the FreeStyle Libre 2 website for more detailed and important information about the functionality, accuracy, warnings, precautions, etc.
The optional and customizable high and low alerts are a huge advancement over the Libre 1, and will help people living with diabetes avoid the unpredictable highs and lows of living with this condition.
When Can You Get It?
No release date has been announced, but you can sign up here to be notified when it will be available in the U.S.
Additional Resources
The World’s Smallest CGM Gets FDA Approval, and Bigger Isn’t Always Better!
It’s Love at First Swipe for Chef Robert Lewis and His FreeStyle Libre 2
Does It Make a Difference Where You Put Your FreeStyle Libre Sensor?
What’s Trending in Diabetes? Trend Arrows and How to React to Them!
plse notify me once the libra 2 system is available at walmart or walgreen pharmacies
Hi Brad,
You can sign up to be notified here: https://www.freestylelibre.us/system-overview/freestyle-libre-2.html
Just scroll down to the bottom of the page and you’ll see the sign up!
Can you use regular libre monitors with libre 2 reader
Use the monitor with the reader?
Huh?
You can use FreeStyle glucose strips in a FreeStyle Libre reader.
Does the library 2 take lite strips
Functionality:
Dexcom 6g vs., FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 ?
The ability to get current close to ” real time readings ? “
Compared to test strip readings, Libre consistently reads low while DexCom is consistently high. If you are adjusting insulin injections by the readings then Dexcom can be dangerous.
You need to make sure your meter isn’t reading inappropriately low, because then you might be under-dosing. The FDA says that as long as the CGM number is within 20% of the true value it’s acceptable, and the trend arrow should also help.
I find from “extensive ” usage that the ability as well as flexibility of the Libre2 would be greatly appreciated if the Libre2- and Smartphone – were interchangeable, rather ” either or either one or the other”… As was the case with the original Libre [One]?
.
Unfortunately , the information states ” which ever device you begin your initial sensor test with,LIMITS you to that test for the duration of the 14 days. Yes 🤔
does this mean i do not need to scan the sensor with my phone manually and that it automatically goes to my phone continuously or does the data only get pushed when i manually scan with my phone
The only difference between the Libre 1 and 2 is that the 2 will give an alarm when you hit your high and low target and then you have to scan. It does not continuously go to your phone. Also the 2 will need a scanner for now since the scanning phone app is not ready yet.
Is the app for the 2 available yet?
According to their website, the app is still under FDA review.
https://www.freestylelibre.us/myfreestyle.html
I was told yesterday that the app to use on your phone has been approved and is now available trying to find the mobile app now
Will I be able to continue manual scan and use of test strips or will I be forced to change to the phone app?
Thanks much Dr. Edelman.
You continue to be a good source of diabetic knowledge.
Regards, Dr. Green
Thanks, appreciate it.
I am on the freestyle libre and there is an app for the freestyle libre system it’s free to download in your App Store so check it out
No, the App is NOT compatible with the new Freestyle 2 sensors. I have the new system, and the phone will detect them but will not read them and indicates that they are not compatible. This was not made clear before I purchased the system.
So only the reader will scan for right now
It also has alarms to wake you at night….
Same!!! I never would have gotten the Libre 2 sensors if I had known that there is no Android app to scan them with
Hi Mike,
You may know this already, but the FreeStyle Libre 2 app was just recently approved for use with Android phones, so hope that helps you moving forward!
The 2 is now available at Walgreens, but my insurance company (Regence) is saying the 2 is a medical device and they won’t cover it, unlike the 1 which they covered fully. Doesn’t make any sense to me!
Hi Chris, you may want to contact Abbott’s customer care team and see if they can assist in any way: https://www.freestylelibre.us/contact-us.html
Does the Freestyle libre 2 use neo test strips ?
Hi Michelle,
You don’t do fingersticks with the Freestyle Libre 2. You can read more about the product here: https://www.freestylelibre.us/system-overview/freestyle-libre-2.html
The Freestyle Libre 14-day uses Neo Precision test strips for blood tests (in addition to the arm scanner).
Does the Freestyle Libre 2 also use the Neo Precision test strips (in addition to the arm scanner)?
Yes. Both systems use the same glucose strip.
I feel that the “You don’t do fingersticks with the Freestyle Libre 2…” a over optimistic. However, I will test this for my self when I get the upgrade in about a week or so.
Libre 1 is woefully bad for accuracy and I cannot see that 2 will be much better.
Sensor readings with 1 can 100 while test strip can report 150. I have 2000 readings in a report that show that the libre1 was not reliable if you are on the sliding scal2.
I just completed 14 day trial on Libre 2, 4 readings were inaccurate by 20 per cent. Even if I manually calculate the error, the alarm has awakened me at 1 and 5 am indicating a hypo, adding 20 per cent I am not in a hypo but quite exhausted the next day from lack of sleep. Libre 1 was off by 15 per cent on 16 out of 20 readings. Surprised that Abbott did not do a trial using one of their employees before they spent so much on advertising. I’m back to finger sticks.
Libre 2 is not accurate enough to not do finger sticks.
The stand alone reader has “medical device” classification. And since in the US, at present, you need the reader to use Libre2, it is understandable. When the FDA approves the app, classification will most likely change.
Telephone number for free stylelibre2
Is there any software to copy the data from libre 2 to windows 10 pc 0r a galaxy 8+ phone. Customer service told me today no software currently available for Libre 2 just older libre 14 day and 10 day models.
Abbott would have the latest info on that, but since the Libre 2 was just released in the U.S., hopefully it will be coming soon!
I’m assuming the reader for libre 1 does not work for the libre 2, yes?
Correct – each system works with its own components. If you would like more information, the Abbott customer service team is very helpful and can be reached by calling 855-632-8658 or visiting them online: https://www.freestylelibre.us/contact-us.html
My libre 14 is running about 30 – 60 points lower then the finger sticks am I doing something wrong
Probably not. I used the original libre when it came out here in Europe and found it to be entirely random – sometimes the result was wildly out and sometimes spot on. This could have something to do with the difference between a whole blood reading (that’s what the traditional finger prick meters use) and interstitial fluid reading which is typically 15 minutes behind the whole blood value and the method used by the libre). That said, I found the libre to be dangerously inaccurate on several occasions – usually within the first couple of days of starting a new sensor – and generally very poor value for money as the sensors rarely lasted 2 weeks and either fell off or stopped working – especially since I was bearing the entire financial cost. I also found Abbott’s customer service where I live to be atrocious. Once they had my money they were entirely disinterested. I’m back to using a traditional finger prick meter which is a lot more accurate and a lot cheaper as well.
To answer your question though – no, you’re not doing anything wrong. I would take the libre readings and finger stick readings and compare the trends of both as I found that as a tool for looking at the trends of my blood glucose meter it was pretty good. At giving me an immediate and totally accurate reading, it was a bit hit and miss – I’d trust my instincts above the libre and confirm them with a finger prick reading.
The Libre has improved greatly over the past few years, including the new Libre 2. It has been shown with any CGM device that the first 24 hours might be more inaccurate than the rest of the life of the sensor. Until you gain confidence in the Libre, check your blood sugar with a meter when you’re dosing insulin.
Sometimes I get readings that even farther out than that. Sometimes much higher, some times much lower.
My husband has the freestyle libre 2. Is there a way to share reading with family members?
Hi Stacy,
There’s info on this on the Support/FAQ page of the Freestyle Libre website:
https://www.freestylelibre.us
https://www.freestylelibre.us/support/faq.html
In a nutshell, here is what they say:
LibreLinkUp1 is a free mobile app that allows caregivers to receive glucose readings from a FreeStyle LibreLink2,3 user who uses the FreeStyle LibreLink app to scan their FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 14 day sensors. Once you have installed the LibreLinkUp app4,5 and accepted an invitation to connect from a FreeStyle LibreLink user, you will receive their glucose information on your smartphone each time the FreeStyle LibreLink user scans his/her FreeStyle Libre or FreeStyle Libre 14 day sensor. As long as you have opened and signed into the LibreLinkUp app at least once, you will receive notifications even if you have closed out of the app. The LibreLinkUp app does not need to be open or running for you to receive notifications; the notifications can be sent to your phone’s lock screen. LibreLinkUp is a mobile application, developed and provided by Newyu, Inc. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView, a service provided by Abbott and Newyu, Inc. The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check our compatibility guide for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp requires registration with LibreView, a service provided Newyu, Inc. The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile device and operating systems. Please check http://www.librelinkup.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app.
Abbott’s FreeStyle Leibre 2 is letting down the U.S. lower middle class in not providing a cell phone app for android phones. Being left hanging, as their reader does not speak to a blind person… I am dependent on a phone at my price-point to speak my results.
Hi Rebecca,
You may want to reach out to Abbott’s customer service to ask when the app will be available for Android phones: https://www.freestylelibre.us/support/overview.html or call 855-632-8658. Not sure if this is an option for you, but the Dexcom CGM/iPhone combo does allow for glucose numbers to be read aloud.
Some things they do not tell you, or at least it is not clear. The LIbre 2 does not work with cell phones as a reader. You have to buy a $150 reader separately. However the Freestyle 14 day works with a cell phone but only with certain cell phones (really old ones). Notwithstanding what they say on their website, Medicare will not pay for any of this.
We now have a $34 sensor stuck on my 89 year old father with the options of either buying an expensive reader, or figuring out how to get the thing off of him throw it out and get the 14 day version and see if that will work with a phone.
Not real happy with this system. Maybe it will eventually work but be prepared to spent a LOT of money have to throw things out and buy different ones and spend a lot of time with support trying to get anything to work.
Medicare will only pay for one reader in a 5 year period so I got my 1st reader in April 2020 so they won’t pay for the freestyle libre 2 reader until apr 2025. INow with Medicare, I am allowed to order the new sensor which I just did but now am reading I have to have the new reader. Also read that the new app for the freestyle libre 2 will work on Android phones but Apple isn’t allowing it to read on IOS phones because of a conflict with the Apple Card reader or something. All a bit confusing so until then I can continue to use the original freestyle libre with my Apple IPhone and the original app or pay for just the new reader until the new iPhone app is available. Looks like the new reader cost about $150 from another persons answer. Freestyle libre is advertising a free trial for the new reader for even those of you who want to switch like I do but then when you apply it says you don’t qualify. I tried signing my husband up for the trial as well because he used accu-check meters and again it says he doesn’t qualify. What’s up with that if no one qualifies? If I have to pay for the reader do I need a prescription for just that or like other matters can you buy it over the counter at your pharmacy?
You do need a prescription. You can buy the sensor alone if you have the reader. Keep in mind, the reader for the Libre 14-day is different than for the Libre 2, so just make sure you are getting the one you need.
Actually Medicare DOES cover these systems. However, Medicare requires that the reader be used for scanning at least some of the time. Therefore, you do have to get the reader, but again Medicare DOES cover these. Although, Medicare requirements for coverage of these systems are significant and some diabetics may not be eligible.
Medicare requires:
Must be diabetic, on insulin 3+ times per day, have been testing with strips 4+ times per day, require frequent insulin dose changes, and have in-person visit with prescriber every 6 months to assess diabetes and glucose monitoring.
Also, Medicare will not cover standard glucose monitoring supplies in the same period. One or the other.
And the cell phone app for Libre 2 is currently pending FDA approval. They cant release it without that approval.
When will the app be available. The main reason i got a libre was to be able to scan it with my phone. This was the one my dr prescribed, so should i go to the older ones or will the app be available soon?
Hi John, You will need to check with FreeStyle Libre directly. Their support page is here: https://www.freestylelibre.us/support/overview.html
and their customer service number is 855-632-8658.
what can you do with the old seasor and plug in plus the reader – can they be used by less fortunate people in 3rd world countries
Hi Sandy,
That is very kind of you to think about donating your supplies. It may be easiest to first google free clinics in your area to see if they could use them.
I’m not really seeing the benefit from Libre to Libre 2. If it only alarms once you’ve scanned, how is that any better than just reading your number and knowing from that if you’re hi or low? The alarms would surely just become irritating and have no added value?🤷♀️
Hi Karen,
The Libre will give you an alarm that is intended to prompt you to then scan to see what your blood sugar number is. Here is the paragraph from Dr. Edelman that explains it in more detail:
This in my opinion is the biggest advancement of the FreeStyle Libre 2. Your low alarm can be set between 60-100 mg/dl and your high alert between 120 and 400mg/dl. The user will get an auditory alert (or a vibration) which will prompt him or her to scan their sensor with the reader to get the glucose value. These alerts are optional and all of them can be turned off. For folks with T1D, these alerts are essential to improve your TIR and importantly time below range (TBR). I suggest the low alert for most people to be 80mg/dl as there may be a lag period on the way down, meaning that when you hit your low alert level you may be in reality significantly lower depending on how fast you are dropping. The high alert for most folks should be 180 to 200mg/dl. There are circumstances when you may want to alter these alerts depending on individual circumstances.
Just to clarify if you haven’t learned already, the Libre 2 monitors your glucose level continuously, not just when you scan. As long as the reader is within range, the alarm will go off as soon as you hit the high or low you set even if you’re asleep. I’ve been using the 2 for a couple months, and it’s been a life changer. The really great part is being able to see what’s going on while you’re sleeping.
So angry at myself for not doing my due diligence and realizing the phone app wasn’t available! This is 2020 — almost 2021 — it is ridiculous to have to drag around the reader everywhere I go. I would never have upgraded from the prior model if I understood this limitation. And it has been out since July — this is November — when the heck will the FDA approval on the app be received?
Hi all, Just to clarify. Does the Alarm function work by “auto-detecting” if the blood levels are reducing/increasing above/below what you have set them at? If this is the case, then it’s a great feature which will wake you up in the night if levels are going down. Thanks in advance.
Yes, as long as the reader is within 20 feet of your sensor. I put my reader on my nightstand when I’m asleep or in my pocket during the day. It will notify me when my BG is approaching my alarm target settings and is within a few points away depending on the rate of the drop or rise. Once the alarm goes off, I just scan my sensor go get the reading.
Just picked up three sensors and applied one to my husbands arm. The sensor will not scan. We have the Libra 2 scanner and the pharmacist gave us the libre 14 day supply. Do we need different sensors or can you tell me how to get it to work?
Hi Sharon,
It would be best if you contact Abbott/Freestyle Libre customer support directly at 855-632-8658. We are also hosting a conference on Saturday (12/12/20) from 8am-4pm pacific time and the Freestyle Libre reps will be doing live demos and answering questions. Registration is free and you can sign up here: https://tcoyd.org/tcoyd-dec-2020/
My sister uses the the original freestyle libre & is requies to test at least 4X a day but this last month 2 of the sensors have fallen off her arm after only being on 4-5 so is there a way other than out of pocket to get another one?
Hi Linda, you should definitely call Abbott customer support at 855-632-8658.
Very important to clean the skin thoroughly with the wipes provided, people who regularly swim with them on have no problems, however you can purchase special extra stickers to really make sure. I have used these for over 2yeara and never had ant come off yet. Suggest you really take care cleaning the spot AND waiting until it dries before application
Each sensor is issued with two sealed alcohol wipes. I use both sides of one and open it at the fold to present two more sides. Then the second wipe is used in the same way. This gives you 8 passages to be sure the area is thoroughly free of skin oils. Since I started using this method, I have had not had a single one to pop off.
Is the sensor the same for freestyle libre and freestyle libre 2?
Different sensor for sure.
Is there improvements in security controls of this device?
Not sure on the security controls but you can check with the company directly.
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/home.html
Any feedback, I have the 14 day sensor using Pohne App. Of last 2 months, I get sensor errors all the time. I go some days without readings.
Anyone else having similar problems.
When will the app for Android be available for Libre 2? Getting tired of having to wear clothes with pockets to carry the reader around. I will switch to Dexcom soon if that device has software and an app.
FreeStyle Libre/Abbott would have the most accurate timeline on all their product and app developments. Please contact their customer service:
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/contact-us.html
855-632-8658
Dexcom app info and compatibility can be found here:
https://www.dexcom.com/apps
I was have been using the FreeStyle libre for over 3 months now. I have been paying out of pocket. Today I placed my sensor in and it states that is not compatible. I noticed that the box said 2. It would have been great to have an app updated or something to make it easier. The pharmacy, of course, can’t refund and it is very hard to contact anyone with the FreeStyle Libre Company. Is there any way I can a replacement for the one I wasted my money on that is not compatible with the current app?
Abbott does have a customer service line that is open from 8am-8pm eastern time: 855-632-8658
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/contact-us.html
I stopped using Libre Sensor 1 when i got inaccurate readings , the sensor said sugar lvl was 7 and the finger prick later revealed my actual suagr level to be 3 … for myself as a driver is the difference between losing my licence and keeping it , possibly killing myself and others. can you tell me if the Libre 2 is any more accurate , it concerns me that the sensor is accepted by Police to say if you are fit to drive or not . please understand this is only my experience with the sensor and would love the problems to be solved for convenience but i cannot risk my life just for convenience.
I sincerely understand your concerns. Abbott is well aware of inaccuracies with their Libre sensor, and according to their recent publications, they have improved the accuracy. I would keep the information about the lot number or serial number of each sensor until it has proven to be accurate, and if it’s not accurate, call FreeStyle Libre’s 800 number and have them send you a new sensor. You also could try a different CGM with alerts and alarms.
For the last 75 sensors, I have all the sensor specs including Code, Serial Number, Lot Number, Date to expire, with the first and last date of use.
I am in the process of changing over to the new sensor and will continue to look for improvement.
I am now generating a graph for each sensor to compare its scanning value with test strip reading. Some sensors are surprising accurate for the two weeks. Many are incredibly poor. I can go back and generate graphs for the old ones. Maybe now they will listen to me when I try to tell them that there are real accuracy problems and not just the 15 minute difference between sensor and blood readings.
I have used 90 sensors so far with few problems however I would never rely on the sensor readings. I check each one with a test-strip and finger prick. Readings can be drastically different.
I will be changing over the the Libre 2 sensor/monitor and will continue to perform the tests. IT will be interesting to see if the accuracy improves.
Then why bother with a Libre sensor, you may as well stick to the old fashioned and very inconvenient finger pricking.
I take it that you have not been using sensors very long. There are benefits that weigh against the inaccuracy problem.
Hi, could you please advise whether Libre 2 reader works with Libre 1 sensors ?
According to Abbott, the Libre 2 reader only works with the Libre 2 sensor.
When the app becomes available, will I still use the reader? If I do not get the 2 before the app is available, will I still be able to start with the reader?
Will I have to use an app or phone? Can the readings go directly to my computer?
My phone is doing some rather stupid tricks lately. I don’t want it to interfere with my readings.
When the app becomes available, you will not need the reader…your cell phone will become your reader. You will still need a phone with the app because you’ll need to swipe over the sensor. If you get the FreeStyle Libre 2 before the app is available, you can just use the reader.
So my husband started using the Freestyle Libre last Sunday and 6 days later the sensor said it needed to be replaced. We replaced it and used his iPhone to scan after we put the sensor on. Now the Freestyle Libre reader says “the sensor you just scanned was started by another reader and cannot be used with this one”. We’re we supposed to use the reader first and then the phone? Not sure why this happened.
Hi Linda,
You should contact Abbott FreeStyle Libre customer service and let them know:
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/contact-us.html
I did the same thing once the first years I used the Libre: scanned new sensor with phone before scanning it with the meter. I called Abbott to ask why this rejection happened and what I could do to resolve my un-documented “screw-up”. They basically said I was out of luck and just be sure not to start the sensor in the wrong order next time. Granted, it wasn’t the end of the world – just meant I could only use my phone to read it for the next 2 weeks.
Same thing just happened to me and it’s ridiculous that it should matter which device you use to activate the new sensor. I had to unexpectedly change out my sensor today, when the old one came loose while I was visiting friends, and all I had to activate the new sensor (always keep a spare one in the car) was my phone.
There is no reason for it to be this way, other than ill will on Abbott’s part. Now I’m stuck using my phone to scan for the next two weeks, which is a lot bigger and heavier to carry around everywhere. Oh well, like you said, not the end of the world, it’s “only” two weeks, but it’s just so incredibly unnecessary.
I just found out that Libre 1 is the one with the application. Libre 2 uses only the reader. I just got off the phone with Abbot and they verified this.
Freestyle Libre 2. Is pretty much worthless I be been using it for over 2 months max it is off by 20 to 60 The alarm goes off and wakes me up at night with false readings I’m going to ask my doctor for a different solution
I would suggest that you call the customer support line at Abbott to find out what could be the problem with those inaccurate numbers. Hang in there and let us know what they say.
The customer service team is very nice and they try to help. I have called them several times but they don’t seem to know the reason for the disparity. They replace the sensor at no cost. The sensor I attached yesterday did not work at all. So again, they are sending me a new sensor.
Thank you for letting us know, Daniel.
“Freestyle Libre 2. Is pretty much worthless I be been using it for over 2 months max it is off by 20 to 60 The alarm goes off and wakes me up at night with false readings I’m going to ask my doctor for a different solution.”
I agree on the first account. At least there should be a settable time-out. We got along without the limit alarms all along. They are interesting but not all that important.
Asa far as accuracy, So far, I find that the Libre2 is much more accurate than the Libre-1. I stopped relying on the sensor reading and use a finger-price almost all the time and document both readings. The meter is good for a lot of features but I don’t rely on the sensor all that much.
I gave up contacting customer service for the accuracy issues. They would have had to replace 700 of the 1000 sensors I have used if I did.
No iPhone app for the Libre 2 yet??
Nope, according to their website, it’s not approved by the FDA yet.
Well, over the last four years, I have fought for CGM, but in being a T2D, always persevere. I cleared a big hurdle this week convincing my doctor to finally prescribe the Libre 2. We will see if it gets through insurance. Living with DR, DPN, CVD, CKD, as well as basal/bolus insulin, creates what I call simply a health management challenge. What encouraged me was Dr. Steve’s interview on the Diabetic Investors with his esteemed peers. AFter that, I made two promises to myself: Debunk the lies about diabetes on social media (in the works), and go for a CGM…again. Encouragement even from a far works for this PLWD, advocate and healthcare marketer. Hopefully by this time next week, we shall be spending more time TIR.
Hello, my hubby was using the Libre 1 for about a year and changed to Libre 2 this week. He uses his phone to scan, for both Libre 1 & 2. He had to download a new app when he changed to Libre 2 (Android).
I use Apple and have been using the Libre LinkUp app to get his readings. I did not need to upgrade or change the app, the transition was seamless.
The only difference I see with Libre 2 is we will both get alerts when he is low or high (he sets the range). He still needs to manual scan to get a reading.
Hope this helps.
Forgot to mention, I am located in Canada. 🙂
The FDA recently cleared the FreeStyle Libre 2 iOS app. You can read more about it here:
https://www.hcplive.com/view/fda-clears-freestyle-libre-2-app-diabetes-management
Very happy I found all these comments today as I was trying to decide whether to switch from Libre 1 to Libre 2. Want to share my findings over the past couple of years:
– readings from CGM are often higher than my Accucheck strips, especially the first few months (years ago) using it. This has generally gotten much better and some batches right on the money. I use accucheck strips before every meal or when in doubt to verify the CGM readings. I wonder whether it has something to do with my placement of the sensor on my arm (higher up maybe).
– I find the reading goes way up after showering in the morn and there will almost always be a big diff between it and the strips when I get ready for breakfast after showering. Hot water affecting CGM?
– I’ve had sensors fall off a few times: sometimes due to knock it off while showering, a couple times due to getting exceptionally sweaty from work outdoors.
Since the Libre2 is always checking your sensor (when you are in range) it uses more battery energy. There is little to no indication that the battery needs charging and it does not let you know when it is fully charges. I have been tracking the times it needs to be recharged. It turns out to be no more than three days. You just might as well have it on charge all the time.
I have a strong interest in statistics. For the last 20 libre2 sensors, at least, I have recorded and documented sensor and test strip readings for every check. It has always shown that the sensor reads lower than the test strip and this is fully explained and understood.
Yes, after using 124 sensors, I know all about interstitial fluids and all that but I how have one that was totally bizarre.
One recent sensor, for 6 days*, showed that the sensor was HIGHER than the test strip reading. It was consistent for the entire time. The next sensor was back to normal (sensor lower than test strip) as was for all the previous ones.
I discussed this with Abbot and they seemed confused but agreed to send a new sensor. I will be including a report with charts and explanation with the return.
I wonder if anyone else has seen anything like this.
*I had to remove it for an MRI.
I’ve used the Libre 1 for a few years and switched to the 2… I have to say. I’m not a big fan of the 2. The reader is constantly losing signal. For each high, low and signal loss and the other reader malfunctions, the alarm continues until you shut it off. Ive used mine like the 1 for the alarm reasons. The app is only available for Apple phones, not happy about that.
I’ve contacted customer service to alert them to my reader telling me to call them because of the number of times it had gone off line/dropped signal. Without having the EXACT wording I was given on the reader they told me they couldn’t do anything.
As of today the app Android app for the Libre 2 is limited to a handful of premium priced phones nearly half of which are old models.
The apps rating is 1.9 stars and falling with 90% of the ratings in the past 3 months being one star, the lowest possible rating.
Users have been complaining about reliability of the system, accuracy of the system, basic on usability is a real-time monitor because of screaming alarms.
These complaints are increasing in numberv and haven’t changed since the day the app was introduced. The software issues are not being addressed with updates.
Whether this is due to FDA restrictions is irrelevant. The app was not properly designed or tested as a consumer product prior to release and the advertising is deceptive, burying The Limited device compatibility and concealing basic lack of usability.
The user reviews also indicate that when users have compatible phone devices, the failure rate of pairing with sensors is very high.
It’s hard to see why any person who’s interested in his own health would use this system as a substitute for finger sticks. imo It’s only value is as a short-term post- monitoring analysis device to see how an individual user with a very limited and restricted diet and exercise routine reacts to multiple daily injections.