Diabetes is a common chronic health condition that can affect people of any age. It occurs when an individual’s blood sugar levels are too high over an extended period. This health condition may be a result of reduced insulin production or insulin resistance. To keep diabetes in check, one needs to monitor their blood sugar levels carefully. One can achieve this with the help of constant glucose monitors (CGMs) like the FreeStyle Libre 3.

About FreeStyle Libre 3
FreeStyle Libre 3 is a CGM device manufactured by Abbott Laboratories that shows the user’s current blood sugar levels, trends (up, down, or stable), and blood sugar curve over the last few hours. The FDA approved this wearable device in 2022 for those over the age of four. The device is painless to apply and wear, eliminating the need for fingersticks for testing blood sugar levels.

How FreeStyle Libre 3 works
This wearable device has a subcutaneous electrochemical sensor that uses the enzyme glucose oxidase to measure blood sugar levels. This enzyme is responsible for oxidizing glucose in the interstitial fluid (ISF). This transfers to the sensor’s electrode, which then produces a current. The FreeStyle Libre 3 converts the strength of this current into blood glucose values and transmits the data to a connected device for continuous monitoring and management of diabetes.

Advantages of FreeStyle Libre 3
This device has been updated to offer users several benefits.

1. It sends blood readings to the phone automatically
The FreeStyle Libre 3 updates the glucose results every minute and automatically sends them to the connected/compatible smartphone. Unlike before, users do not need to scan the sensor every 8 hours to receive their blood glucose readings. This makes room for more constant, accurate, and convenient monitoring.

2. It is more discreet
This device has been labeled the world’s smallest, thinnest, and most discreet dermal glucose sensor, about 70% smaller than its predecessor. Designed to be worn on the back of the upper arms, the FreeStyle Libre 3 measures glucose concentration effectively while remaining practically undetectable.

3. Users get real-time alerts
With the FreeStyle Libre 3, users have the option to enable real-time alerts on blood sugar levels to prompt immediate action for blood sugar regulation.

4. It is more affordable
According to its parent company, the FreeStyle Libre 3 is one of the most affordable CGM devices, even without insurance coverage. The company also runs a program called MyFreeStyle, where users can find support to set up their devices. Under this program, some users may even get access to one free sensor if they qualify. Each sensor lasts up to 14 days.

5. It requires no calibration
Generally, most CGM devices need to be calibrated using fingersticks. The FreeStyle Libre 3 forgoes this setup as it comes pre-calibrated from the factory, making it much easier to use.

These advantages can go a long way in helping users adhere to CGM therapy. It will also offer healthcare providers better insights into formulating the course of treatment to ensure effective blood sugar management and a better quality of life for patients.