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.
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. You can also request it at your local Clicks, but the co-payment may be more.
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.
Please note: As of the end of September 2024, the FreeStyle Libre 1 will be discontinued. If you’re using a FreeStyle Libre 1 reader, it will not be compatible with FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors. For any questions, call the Abbott FreeStyle Libre helpline on 0800 222 688.
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.
* 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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Great product! I am using FreeStyle Libre sensors over 2 years with the NightRider BluCon and able to see reading updates on my Apple watch and don’t have to carry my phone any longer. I am also able to get alarms and share readings with my spouse.
Hi Joan, I am thinking of switching from the Medtronic device to the FreeStyle Libre but need alerts for low BG, so am interested in the NightRider Blucon. Have you ever experienced issues with the NightRider device failing to connect? I’ve read lots of reviews that this can sometimes happen. Would love to hear your experience and where you purchased it.
Can you lay in tanning bed with the sensor is in your arm?
Hi Scoria! I asked Abbott and they said:
This has not been tested and therefore we cannot recommend “a tanning bed laying time”.
If the Sensor stops working due to extreme temperature, the user will get an error message indicating ‘Glucose Reading unavailable’. The FreeStyle Libre operating temperature range is 10°C to 45°C.
I have used it for quite a while and been very impressed and happy.
Quality has however dropped lately and have had quite a few failures.
Does anyone use the https://cdeonline.co.za/anytime-ct3/ system and is there any comparison between them?
Hi Rodney!
Have you reported the failures? They’re usually very good at replacing them immediately.
The new Anytime CT3 CGM is coming out soon, but we’re trying to track down published clinical evidence for Type 1 diabetes before we recommend it. We’re working on it!
They are incredibly helpful and good at replacements. Was wondering about the CT3 and any experiences
It’s supposed to be released in September, but SA Diabetes Advocacy has concerns about how many people it’s been tested on – one study of 72 participants, only 17 of those with Type 1 diabetes…
What can be done to influence Medical Aids (Discovery) to accept and fund Libre 2 BG monitoring system for type 2 diabetics? I have seen incredible improvement in my BG in just 10 days, however as a pensioner find it prohibitively expensive. R1086 x 26 = R 28,236 p.a. If I use the unit medical aid will after all benefit by reduced costs of no issue of Accu Check strips, however the member doesn’t benefit one iota, why? What is the legal reason for this stance and can it be challenged by representation from S.A. w D?
Great question, Malcolm! I know they’re starting to incorporate Libre 2 for people with Type 2 diabetes on insulin, and others have had success motivating as an individual for it to be covered. Have you tried motivating individually? Globally, coverage for CGM goes from Type 1 to Type 2 on insulin to all Type 2s, so we’re moving in the right direction, but it takes so long and costs a fortune in the interim, as you say…