Freestyle Libre 3 rises to a new top

Abbott announced that its FreeStyle Libre 3 continuous sugar monitor has been certified in Europe, allowing it to be used in the European Union. The news came just months after the company received similar US approval to use the previous version, FreeStyle Libre 2. 

Like its predecessor, this monitor can run continuously for 14 days and transmit data about sugar levels to the user's smartphone every minute. This latest version is smaller than previous versions, which is worn on the back of the shoulder, is similar in size to a small coin. The device can also provide users with alerts and trend data via a smartphone app.

FreeStyle Libre 3 is intended for use by adults and children over 4 years of age.

The sensor measures the sugar level in the interstitial fluid by using a thin needle 5 mm long and 0.4 mm wide that penetrates the skin. The readout is done in 1 second. An important feature of this device is that the sugar sensor used in the system does not require calibration.

The technology is currently only available in Europe, but according to an Abbott representative, the company plans to roll out the technology in other markets while waiting for regulatory approval. The company said that the new product will be sold at the same price as the previous version of the device. 

In 2017, Abbott's Freestyle Libre system became the first continuous sugar management (CGM) system to be cleared for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). At the time, the system could be used for 10 days, but in 2018 Abbott received another approval for a new version of the Freestyle Libre glucose monitoring system, which was intended to be used for two weeks. 

This next-generation device has the same benefits as FreeStyle Libre 2, such as unrivaled 14-day accuracy and optional glucose alarms, but it also adds new capabilities, such as continuous real-time glucose readings provided to a person's smartphone every minute and a sensor with a one-piece applicator. 

Here's why Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 3 is unrivaled in the market: 

• 14-day precision that is unrivaled; 
• Environmentally more sustainable; 
• Democratic in its cost.

Although, every Freestyle Libre user also has to remember about sensor protection. As we know, the sensor could be damaged during sports, showers, or other day-to-day activities. That’s why it is very important to choose high-qualified adhesive patches.

Inspired by: Abbott