What is a Freestyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensors are small, discreet devices worn on the upper arm that continuously monitor glucose levels in the interstitial fluid beneath the skin. Part of Abbott’s cutting-edge CGM technology, these sensors offer accurate and real-time glucose readings, eliminating the need for routine finger pricks. They are easy to apply, comfortable to wear, and integrate seamlessly into daily life, giving users greater freedom and confidence in managing their diabetes.

How Does It Help Diabetes?

The introduction of Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensors has had a profound impact on diabetes management. Studies have shown that the use of CGM systems like Freestyle Libre can lead to significant improvements in glycemic control. For instance, a real-world study in Sweden demonstrated that using the Freestyle Libre system was associated with lower HbA1c levels and reduced hospitalization rates for people with Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, CGM systems like the Freestyle Libre empower users by providing alerts for glucose fluctuations, allowing for quicker interventions to prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the long-term complications of diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and kidney damage. By offering real-time data, the sensors also promote better adherence to treatment plans and encourage healthier lifestyle choices, contributing to improved overall well-being for those living with diabetes.

How Do Freestyle Libre 2 Plus Sensors Work?

The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor uses advanced technology to provide continuous and accurate glucose monitoring, simplifying diabetes management for users.

Real-time Monitoring with a Thin Filament

At the core of the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor’s functionality is a thin filament that is inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. This technology allows the sensor to continuously monitor glucose levels throughout the day and night. With readings transmitted every minute, users have access to detailed and up-to-date glucose data, enabling them to track fluctuations and trends with ease.

Integration with the FreeStyle LibreLink App

The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor seamlessly integrates with the FreeStyle LibreLink app, providing a user-friendly platform for managing diabetes. The app allows users to view their glucose data in a clear and accessible format, set customizable alarms for high or low glucose levels, and share their readings with healthcare providers. This integration ensures that users can stay connected to their health data at all times, empowering them to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to maintain optimal glucose control.

Additional Features

The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor offers several other features that further enhance diabetes management:

Optional Glucose Alarms

Users can set customizable alarms for high or low glucose levels. These alerts ensure that users are immediately notified of potential glucose fluctuations, enabling timely interventions to avoid complications like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

Extended Wear Time

One of the standout improvements of the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is its extended wear time. Users can wear the sensor for up to 15 days, making it more convenient and cost-effective compared to its predecessor. This longer duration allows for consistent monitoring with fewer replacements, reducing disruptions to daily life.

Improved Accuracy

The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is renowned for its unsurpassed accuracy over the 15-day wear period. This reliability ensures that users can trust the data provided, leading to better glucose management and improved confidence in making health-related decisions.

Water-Resistant Design

The sensor’s water-resistant design allows users to wear it during daily activities, including showering, swimming, or exercising. This feature enhances the sensor’s practicality and ensures that glucose monitoring seamlessly integrates into a variety of lifestyles without interruptions.

Benefits for Diabetics

The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor offers numerous benefits for people managing diabetes:

Elimination of Routine Finger Pricks

One of the most significant advantages is the elimination of routine finger prick tests. Users can obtain glucose readings by simply scanning the sensor with a compatible device, making glucose monitoring much more convenient and less painful. This painless method encourages consistent glucose tracking, which is essential for effective diabetes management.

Real-time Data and Trend Analysis

The continuous monitoring provided by the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor allows users to view real-time glucose data and analyze trends over time. This comprehensive view of glucose patterns enables more informed decision-making regarding insulin dosage, meal planning, and overall diabetes management. By having access to both current readings and historical data, users can better anticipate and address glucose fluctuations.

Insights into Glucose Levels During Various Activities

Users can easily monitor how different activities affect their glucose levels. Whether it’s exercising, eating, or sleeping, the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor provides valuable insights into how these activities impact glucose levels. This information allows users to make adjustments to their routine, ensuring more precise and personalised diabetes management. The ability to track activity-specific glucose responses promotes a deeper understanding of individual health needs, empowering users to achieve optimal glucose control.

How to Use Freestyle Libre 2 Plus Sensors

Using the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Applying the Sensor

1. Clean the application site (back of the upper arm) with an alcohol wipe and let it dry.
2. Remove the sensor from its packaging.
3. Apply the sensor to the cleaned area, pressing firmly to secure it.
4. Activate the sensor by scanning it with the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus reader or a compatible smartphone app.
5. Wait for the 60-minute warm-up period.
6. Start scanning the sensor to obtain glucose readings.

Syncing with the App

To sync the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus sensor with the FreeStyle LibreLink app:

1. Download the FreeStyle LibreLink app from your device’s app store.
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account.
3. When prompted, scan your sensor to start receiving glucose data on your smartphone.

This seamless connection between the sensor and the app ensures that users can access their glucose data anytime, anywhere, making diabetes management more efficient and accessible.

For more information on setting up the app, view the Abbott tutorial page here