Abbott just launched the latest sensor in their FreeStyle Libre family of CGMs – the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor. The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is an upgraded version of the FreeStyle Libre 3, with the advanced capability of integrating with AID systems (aka insulin pumps). It’s now available with a prescription for people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
How Is the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Different than the FreeStyle Libre 3?
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus has three primary upgraded features:
- Extended sensor wear time of up to 15 days
- Expanded age indication to two years old and older
- Future connectivity with automated insulin delivery (AID) systems
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is the same size as the FreeStyle Libre 3 (nearly the size of two stacked U.S. pennies) and you can receive blood sugar readings to your smartphone every minute.
FreeStyle Libre 3/3 Plus Sensor Size
There’s an easy-to-use one-piece applicator, and no overpatch is required.
FreeStyle Libre 3/3 Plus Sensor Applicator
How Is the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Different Than Other FreeStyle Libre Sensors?
Here’s a snapshot of key features of four of the most recent FreeStyle Libre systems:
Which Insulin Pumps Are Compatible with the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus?
Beta Bionics’ iLet Bionic Pancreas AID System
On September 4, 2024, Beta Bionics announced that their iLet AID system will integrate with the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus CGM. The iLet will be the first AID integration of FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus available in the United States, and will launch by the end of this year. Additional pump partnerships will be announced soon.
Can I Still Use the FreeStyle Libre 3 App?
The FreeStyle Libre apps, sensors, and readers cannot be used interchangeably across the family of products, but the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor is compatible with the current FreeStyle Libre 3 app and reader. You can view a list of compatible smartphones here.
Does the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Require Finger Sticks?
During the first 12 hours of sensor wear, you cannot use sensor values to make treatment decisions. You need to confirm sensor glucose readings with a finger stick. Also, as with any CGM system, if your symptoms do not match your CGM readings, you should always double-check with a finger stick.
How Can I Get the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Sensor?
A prescription from a doctor is required for the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor. If you have a FreeStyle Libre 3 prescription, you will need a new prescription for the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus.
You may qualify for a two-week free trial of the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor by signing up for Abbott’s MyFreeStyle Program.
More CGM Choices for More People with Diabetes
The general theme we’ve been seeing this year in diabetes management has been “options”. This is a great thing for people with diabetes and healthcare providers because it allows people to find the right devices that fit their needs and lifestyle. People always ask us which pumps and CGMs are the best ones, and we always answer, “The ones that are right for you.” Maybe CGM size is your top priority, maybe you care more about how often you get a glucose reading. As technology continues to evolve and new features are brought to market, devices like the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus will continue to play a crucial role in transforming diabetes care and improving the lives of millions of people around the world.
Additional Resources:
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Gets FDA Approval
The FreeStyle Libre 2: How Is It Different Than the First?
Does It Make a Difference Where You Put Your FreeStyle Libre Sensor?
Many libre 3 users believe abbot is discontinuing the libre 3…replacing it with libre 3+
They insist their pharmacies no longer carry the lubre 3
Please clarify, i know abnot has np plans for discontinuing libre 3..also same libre 2
We have not heard that they are discontinuing the FreeStyle Libre 2 or the FreeStyle Libre 3. Here is a link to a statement regarding the FreeStyle Libre 3 on their website:
https://www.support.freestyle.abbott/hc/en-us/articles/27194736965137-Will-Abbott-discontinue-the-FreeStyle-Libre-3-sensor
You can also reach out directly to Abbott here:
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/support/contact-us.html?srsltid=AfmBOophpZi7VIp_HTpP-zmswMjLaweldT6cxcP5XWdxFZjtJZhn79kJ
I signed up for the free sensor but my insurance will not pay for me to have a prescription for any sensor since I have diabetes type 2.
Hi Angela,
Abbott does have a CGM you will be able to get over-the-counter soon without a prescription, but it will be an out-of-pocket purchase. You can learn more about it here:
https://tcoyd.org/2024/06/fda-approves-abbotts-libre-rio-and-lingo-over-the-counter-cgms/
Dexcom has a similar product that’s currently available for purchase here: https://www.stelo.com/
Hopefully in the not too distant future, CGMs will be covered for everyone with any type of diabetes.
i have the libre 3 plus..however 2 sensors broke before applying..can i get 2 more and how?
You’ll need to reach out to Abbott customer service here:
https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/freestyle-libre-3-resources.html?srsltid=AfmBOopEcVlbz0gXLitRSrJp2ieV0OJBHCg7P9Ngigbmn_W3xa4-GGdq
left libre 3 after more than 12 sensor failures IN A ROW all with “replace sensor” errors happy camper now with dexcom g7
We have received comments the other way around too…all CGMs are not perfect, but they are lifesavers!
Can I use Libre3 Plus sensors with my existing Libre 3 monitor?
I prefer monitor over using I Phone.
Yes! You can read more about it here:
https://www.support.freestyle.abbott/hc/en-us/articles/27194725538193-Does-the-FreeStyle-Libre-3-Plus-sensor-work-with-FreeStyle-Libre-3-app-and-reader#:~:text=3%20Plus%20sensor-,Does%20the%20FreeStyle%20Libre%203%20Plus%20sensor%20work%20with%20FreeStyle,FreeStyle%20Libre%203%20reader%E2%80%A1.
I have not been able to get the libre plus. My WalMart pharmacy says they have it in stock and they don’t know when they will receive it. What’s going on? I need my sensors.
Hi Yolanda,
You can try calling other pharmacies to see if another one has it, or you can try calling Abbott customer service at 855-632-8658.
Harris Teeter and Walgreens do not have 3+ sensors or readers. Frustrated!!!!
Does anybody know if the Libre3 Plus will be available in Canada in 2025?
We checked with our rep from Abbott, and she had not heard of it being available in Canada this year.