Everything you need to know about the FreeStyle Libre 2

We have had so many people asking us about the FreeStyle Libre 2 system – what it is, where you get it, how much it costs – that we asked Abbott, the manufacturers, for all the answers. Here they are!

What is the FreeStyle Libre 2?

The FreeStyle Libre 2 is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). It is a small sensor (the size of a R5 coin) that you insert into the back of your upper arm and is known as the #1 sensor-based glucose monitoring system used worldwide. The FreeStyle Libre 2 offers real-time glucose readings sent right to your compatible* smartphone.

The sensor sends your glucose readings every minute to your smartphone so you can easily see how food, activity and medication impact your glucose levels.There is no need to calibrate with fingerstick blood glucose tests.** The sensor updates the reading every minute and stores up to 8 hours of glucose readings in 15 minute intervals, even while you sleep, so you have a constant picture of what your blood glucose is doing. Designed to be water-resistant, it can be worn for up to 14 days, even during activities like swimming, showering, and exercising.

Find out more on https://www.freestyle.abbott/za-en/home.html

How much does it cost?

R1089 per sensor. Each sensor lasts two weeks, so you need two sensors a month. The FreeStyle Libre 2 replaces finger stick blood glucose testing. The app, FreeStyle LibreLink is available to download for free on the App store or Google Play.

Do medical aids cover the FreeStyle Libre 2?

Depending on your medical aid and plan option, your FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors might be reimbursed.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 is now covered by Discovery Health as part of the Discovery CGM Benefit. Here are all the details about how to claim this benefit. To qualify for cover, you have to be registered for Type 1 diabetes on the Chronic Illness Benefit and a CGM network doctor has to prescribe the device.

Here is a list of other medical aids with CGM Benefits.

If your medical aid rejects your request for a CGM, you can complain to the CMS. Here’s exactly how to do that.

Where can I buy it?

Sensors are available online from Pharmacy Direct, a courier pharmacy that delivers anywhere in South Africa, Medipost online pharmacy, M-Kem in Durbanville, Cape Town.

Can you still use a reader?

Your current FreeStyle Libre reader won’t work with the new FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor. But you can buy a FreeStyle Libre 2 reader if you need one (from the same stockists: Pharmacy Direct, Medipost or M-Kem).

You can also use the free FreeStyle LibreLink app available on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to scan your FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor.

Is it suitable for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

The FreeStyle Libre 2 is most useful for anyone on multiple daily injections (MDI) of insulin. It tracks your blood glucose throughout the day, so it’s helpful for anyone trying to control their blood sugar, so is also useful for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Is the FreeStyle Libre 2 difficult to put in?

Not at all – the entire unit comes in the box and it’s a simple click-and-push action. The whole thing takes less than five minutes.

What is the FreeStyle LibreLink app?

The FreeStyle LibreLink app is a free app that acts as a reader for the FreeStyle Libre sensor. You can monitor your blood sugar on your compatible smartphone, without finger sticks. View your current blood glucose reading, trend arrow (whether your blood sugar is going up or down), past history (readings up to the last 8 hours) and add notes on food, insulin and exercise. It also gives you easy access to trends and patterns – and lets you share your data with your doctor and loved ones.

What is the LibreLinkUp app?

The free LibreLinkUp app is for parents and caregivers who want to keep track of blood sugar readings from the FreeStyle Libre system. Up to 20 people can view results from a FreeStyle Libre system, from their phones.

Is LibreLink available on iPhone and Android?

Yes – you can use the FreeStyle LibreLink app on both iPhone and Android.

Here’s how to use it on iPhone:

And here’s how to use it on Android:

What is LibreView?

LibreView*** is a cloud-based diabetes management system to upload your data and create easy-to-read glucose reports. What that means is one central place for all your blood sugar readings to live. You can see trend reports, estimated HbA1c, mealtime patterns, daily and weekly patterns. You can then share this with your doctor for remote healthcare advice.

Can the FreeStyle Libre 2 improve my blood sugar management?

Yes. Being able to check your blood glucose countless times a day is priceless. Seeing what happens to your blood sugar between tests is invaluable. Being able to see your time in range (what percentage of each day you spend in your target range) is enormously helpful. It gives you the tools to manage your diabetes better.

What to read next?

What is a CGM? Flash glucose monitoring and CGM: Not sure what the difference is, or what these words mean? Read this article.

We did it! How to claim the Discovery CGM Benefit: A step-by-step guide to claiming the new CGM Benefit.

Your options on the Discovery CGM Benefit: There are 3 CGM / flash glucose monitors available in South Africa. Here’s what they are, and how much they cost.

Important updates about the Discovery CGM Benefit: Including an easy way to claim.

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* The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView. Automatic upload requires a wireless internet connection or mobile data connection.

** Fingersticks are required if glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.

*** The LibreView data management software is intended for use by both patients and healthcare professionals to assist people with diabetes and their healthcare professionals in the review, analysis, and evaluation of historical glucose meter data to support effective diabetes management. The LibreView software is not intended to provide treatment decisions or to be used as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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