Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus: How It Works, Features, Latest Updates
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus CGM from Abbott sends glucose readings directly to a smartphone every minute. The sensor is about the size of two stacked pennies and is worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 15 days. The CGM was cleared by the FDA in 2022.
FreeStyle Libre 3 Features
This third-generation continuous glucose monitor (CGM) provides customizable alarms, 15-day wear time, and high accuracy. Here are some notable features:
- Real-time glucose readings: Values update every minute in the FreeStyle Libre 3 mobile app (iOS or Android).
- Size: The Libre 3 Plus is about 70% smaller than earlier Libre models.
- Custom alerts: Users can receive alarms for high or low glucose levels.
- Sharing: The LibreLinkUp App allows up to 20 people to remotely track glucose data.
- 15-day wear: Sensors last just over two weeks.
- Accuracy: The accuracy of a CGM system can be measured using MARD (mean absolute relative difference), which shows the average amount a CGM sensor varies from your actual glucose levels (a lower number is better). The Libre 3 has a MARD value of 7.8%, about the same as the Dexcom G7 15-Day.
- Availability: Cleared for people with diabetes ages 4 and older, including use during pregnancy with type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
- Food logging: The Libre Assist feature in the Libre mobile app lets a user take a photo of a meal, then see personalized guidance, using AI, on how the meal might affect their blood sugar.
- AID integration: The Libre 3 Plus works with the Tandem t:slim X2, iLet Bionic Pancreas, and Sequel twiist. The Libre 2 Plus integrates with the Insulet Omnipod 5.
Where is the FreeStyle Libre 3 worn?
The Libre 3 sensor is currently cleared to be worn on the back of the upper arm. Once applied, it continuously measures glucose and sends readings to the mobile app via Bluetooth.
How much does the FreeStyle Libre 3 cost?
Insurance costs vary, but Abbott offers a co-pay discount card for those who pay more than $75 for a month of supplies. For those paying cash, prices range from about $170-200 on sites like Amazon and GoodRx.
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is sold for the same price, and under the same insurance coverage, as the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus.
Availability
After launching in Europe, the Libre 3 became available in the United States following FDA clearance in 2022. Sensors are typically obtained through retail pharmacies or durable medical equipment coverage, depending on the insurance plan.
Learn more about continuous glucose monitoring: