Understanding the Differences in FreeStyle Libre Systems
Continuous Glucose Monitors have come a long way and are far more advanced today thanks to technology.
Since the FDA approved the first CGM over 20 years ago, we have seen many changes and upgrades to the system which has revolutionized diabetes management for patients, loved ones and healthcare professionals.
First, a quick reminder on how a Continuous Glucose Monitor works.
A CGM takes a reading on set intervals with a small electrode placed under the skin which is held in place by an adhesive. A transmitter attached to the electrode sends data to a separate unit allowing a patient to record and access valuable information that allows them to manage and help control their diabetes. Prior to the creation of CGM devices, the traditional and main method of checking levels involved a blood glucose monitor and painful fingersticks. Depending on the severity of the diabetes diagnosis, patients could have to check their levels several times throughout the day. Continuous Glucose Monitors give patients the freedom to live a more active and less painful way of life. Glucose levels are continuously monitored without the need for constant fingersticks.
The three most popular monitoring systems on the market today are the Dexcom, Medtronic and the FreeStyle Libre. While there are many similarities between the devices, there are also many differences that set them apart. To find out more, search the Quest Health Solutions blog page.
This blog post will focus on one brand in particular – The FreeStyle Libre. It’s our top choice for many reasons but there’s more than one choice within the brand. There’s the FreeStyle Libre and the FreeStyle Libre 2. It may seem confusing, but let’s look at their similarities and then explore their differences.
FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 Similarities
- ● Fingersticks are not needed for calibration.
- ● Both measure blood glucose every minute.
- ● Both the FreeStyle Libre and the FreeStyle Libre 2 offer thin, small and discreet sensors.
- ● The sensors for both devices last up to 14 days and maintain a high level of accuracy.
- ● Sensors for the FreeStyle Libre and the FreeStyle Libre 2 are water resistant.
- ● Both devices provide trend arrows that show current glucose levels and lets you know where they are headed.
FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 Differences1
- ● The FreeStyle Libre 2 is considered an integrated Continuous Glucose Monitor (iCGM) and can be integrated with other compatible medical devices, like software automated insulin dosing systems.
- ● The FreeStyle Libre 2 has a customizable audio alarm that can alert within a minute if levels are too high or too low.
- ● With a mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of 9.3%, the FreeStyle Libre 2 has a higher level of accuracy over 14 days.
- ● The FreeStyle Libre 2 can be used by children ages four and up whereas the FreeStyle Libre is designed for those 18 years and older.
- ● The LibreLink app which allows users to scan their sensor with their smartphone, is not yet available for the FreeStyle Libre 2, but it is available for the FreeStyle Libre.
The Future of the FreeStyle Libre
As technology continues to change, we can expect further improvements to the FreeStyle Libre brand and have much to look forward to in the future. While not yet available in the US, the FreeStyle 3 is on the horizon and expected to be available in Europe soon. The FreeStyle 3 is promoting the smallest, thinnest and most discreet sensor available to date plus a host of other advanced features.
Why the FreeStyle Libre Choice?
With so many options on the market today, it can be difficult to choose, and this is where Quest Health Solutions can help. Quest Health Solutions remains a strong supporter of the FreeStyle brand and we offer both the FreeStyle Libre and the FreeStyle Libre 2. The FreeStyle Libre brand continues to be the most convenient, advanced and cost-effective choice among the major brands.
The Freestyle Libre is becoming more readily available through various channels. The qualifying process, however, can be daunting for both the patient and provider. At Quest Health Solutions, we can guide you through the entire process. We are not only one of the leading suppliers of Continuous Glucose Monitors in the market today, but we also offer CGM Fulfillment Solutions. Our experienced team will handle all of the paperwork, insurance verification, billing and authorization calls so that healthcare providers do what they do best – treat patients! To learn more about the Freestyle Libre and our CGM Fulfillment Solutions, contact Quest Health Solutions at 1-800-993-9996 email ben@questhealthsolutions.com or schedule an appointment today.
1. (2020) Diabetes Self-Management. Understanding the Differences Between the FreeStyle Libre and the FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM Systems. Available at Click Here accessed on 8 April 2022.
2. (2020) Abbott. FreeStyle Libre 3 Sets New Peak in Diabetes Care. Available at Click Here accessed on 8 April 2022.