FreeStyle Libre System FAQs

The world is currently experiencing an unprecedented situation with the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19). While this impacts many people, we know that managing through this time can be particularly challenging for people with diabetes. Below includes some additional information to help guide your diabetes management.

For educational information about diabetes and COVID-19, please visit the Diabetes Ireland website. 

Our FreeStyle Libre Digital Ecosystem provides you with the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile phone app and LibreView, a secure cloud-based software that allows both you and your doctor to connect remotely at no cost.

For more information on how to download the FreeStyle LibreLink app, create a LibreView account, and how to set up data sharing with your healthcare team, please download our LibreView Quick Start Guide [PDF].

If you are using the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app to scan your Sensor, you can invite your family/caregiver to access your glucose data remotely, anytime by using LibreLinkUp app. Visit the LibreLinkUp page to see how to do this.

We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation across our business operations and we are working with local teams and relevant authorities as the situation evolves. At this time, there has been no impact on availability of Abbott’s diabetes care products in Ireland. The border restrictions currently apply to people, not products or cargo.

If you visit the Sensor product page on our web shop you will see information and instructions related to the amount of Sensors you’re able to order. At the moment, there is no plan to increase or decrease these options.

Most pharmacies in Ireland remain open and may offer services such as home delivery. Please contact your local pharmacy for more information if you have questions.

Unfortunately, we have no plans to launch the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Ireland in 2020. We’ll be in touch if plans change.

In Europe, the FreeStyle Libre system and the FreeStyle Libre 2 system will be available and on-market at the same time.

Just like the FreeStyle Libre system, the FreeStyle Libre 2 system is discreet, convenient and easy to use¹. Because of its excellent accuracy^1,2, there’s no need to prick your finger when using the FreeStyle Libre 2 system³.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system also offers peace of mind when you need it most with three optional real-time alarms for those who need them. There is a Low Glucose Alarm, High Glucose Alarm and Signal Loss Alarm.

More information about the FreeStyle Libre 2 system: www.freestylediabetes.co.uk/update

References
1. Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc.
2. FreeStyle Libre 2 system Performance Data Sheet
3. Finger pricks are required if your glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.

Yes, just like the FreeStyle Libre system, the FreeStyle Libre 2 system is approved for children with diabetes aged four years and over and adults with diabetes¹, including pregnant women.

Reference
1. The indication for children (aged 4-12) is limited to those who are supervised by a caregiver who is at least 18 years of age. The caregiver is responsible for managing or assisting the child to manage the Reader and Sensor and also for interpreting or assisting the child to interpret Sensor glucose readings.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system has an overall 9.2% MARD¹ with 99.9% of readings in Zones A and B of the Consensus Error Grid².

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system has an overall 9.7% MARD in paediatrics patients, with 100% of readings in Zones A and B of the Consensus Error Grid³.

References
1. FreeStyle Libre 2 system Performance Data Sheet
2. Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc.
3. Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc. Pediatric patients from 6-17 years old

Finger pricks are required if your glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.

Yes, the FreeStyle LibreLink app is compatible with both the FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors, however alarms are only received from FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system has three optional alarms:
• Low Glucose Alarm - an alarm will notify you when your glucose falls below a level you set
• High Glucose Alarm - an alarm will notify you when your glucose rises above a level you set
• Signal Loss Alarm - an alarm will notify you when the glucose alarms you set are not available because your Sensor has lost communication with the Reader or app for 20 minutes

Not all patients need glucose alarms. The FreeStyle Libre 2 system offers alarms for those who need or desire them. However, all patients can simply choose to keep the alarms turned off.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system checks to see if an alarm should be received every minute.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system offers a simplified alarm experience. Only the device that starts the Sensor can recieve alarms.

Yes, you will need the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader to receive Optional Glucose Alarms using the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor. The FreeStyle Libre reader will not provide alarms.

The latest version of the app supports alarms.*

^{*From 2/11/20 for Android}

Yes, the FreeStyle LibreLink app version 2.3 or later supports compatibility with FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors and alarms. This version of the app can be used to start/scan the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors and receive alarms.

Yes, you will need a FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor to use the FreeStyle Libre 2 system.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor is based on the same wired-enzyme technology as the FreeStyle Libre sensor. The key difference is that the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor utilizes Bluetooth that enables the optional glucose alarms. The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor is the same size as the FreeStyle Libre sensor.

LibreLinkUp users can receive High and Low glucose notifications if sharing has been enabled, however they will not receive a connection's Signal Loss alarm nor will they see the levels that alarms have been set to.

You are encouraged to share your data with your healthcare professional so that they can better work with you to manage your daily routine. Through LibreView, you can automatically share your data with your healthcare professional by linking your LibreView account to their Healthcare Practice. Alternatively, you can email yourself or print a PDF of your reports to share with your healthcare team. The FreeStyle Libre desktop software can be download and use by you and your health care professional.

Yes if you are using the FreeStyle LibreLink app.
However, if you are using the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader as your primary device, data from the FreeStyle Libre system cannot be summarised on the same report as data from the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in LibreView.

Ireland: The FreeStyle Libre system has been reimbursed, as of the 3rd of April 2018, for some patients aged between 4 and 21 years. Please speak with your Diabetes Specialist at your next appointment, to see if you are eligible.

The Sensor is 5mm in height and 35mm in diameter. The portion of the Sensor that gets inserted under the skin is less than 0.4 mm wide and it's inserted only about 5mm under the skin. In a study conducted by Abbott Diabetes Care, users agreed that inserting the Sensor was no more painful than a typical finger prick glucose test*.

*Data on file. In a study conducted by Abbott Diabetes Care, 93.4% of patients surveyed (n=30) did not feel discomfort under the skin while wearing the Sensor.

The Sensor automatically measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every minute and stores readings at 15 minute intervals for 8 hours. When the Sensor is scanned by the Reader or phone, the Sensor automatically transmits 8 hours of data to the device.

No, you will get the most current reading every time you scan the Sensor.

You can scan as often as you want, but the reading will never change more frequently than every 60 seconds.

To keep the Sensor profile small it has a limited storage capacity. To make sure it could hold 8 hours of data (for a typical overnight period).

The Sensor is applied on the back of the upper arm with a disposable device called an applicator. When the Sensor is applied, a small (5mm) sterile filament is inserted just under the skin, and held in place with a small adhesive pad. In a study conducted by Abbott Diabetes Care, most users agreed that inserting the Sensor was no more painful than a typical finger prick glucose test*.

*Data on file. In a study conducted by Abbott Diabetes Care, 93.4% of patients surveyed (n=30) did not feel discomfort under the skin while wearing the Sensor.

The disposable Sensor is designed to adhere to the back of the upper arm and provide accurate glucose readings for up to 14 days. After 14 days, remove the Sensor by peeling off the adhesive pad.

The Sensor can only be worn on the back of the upper arm.

The portion of the Sensor that gets inserted under the skin is less than 0,4 millimetre wide (1mm is about the thickness of a few strands of human hair) and it’s inserted only about 5mm under the skin, so most people will never feel the Sensor while it is being worn*.

*In a study conducted by Abbott Diabetes Care, 93.4% of patients surveyed (n=30) did not feel discomfort under the skin while wearing the Sensor.

You can take as many glucose readings as you want while the Sensor is being worn. In order to get a 24-hour glycemic picture you need to scan at least once every 8 hours.

Yes, the FreeStyle Libre system has been clinically proven to be accurate, stable, and consistent over 14 days. It does not require finger prick calibration and may be used in place of routine finger prick glucose testing.^1†

1. Bailey, et al. The Performance and Usability of a Factory-Calibrated Flash Glucose Monitoring System. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, Volume 17, Number 11, 2015.

Yes. The Sensor can be worn while bathing, showering, swimming or exercising. The Sensor should not be taken below a depth of 1 metre (3 feet) in water, and should not be submerged in water for more than 30 minutes.

Check with airline prior to departure as rules and regulations may change without notice.

After 14 days of wear, the Reader or FreeStyle LibreLink app notifies you. The time till the end of the Sensor wear period is shown on the screen of the Reader when you switch it on. After the wear period, the Sensor will stop working and should be replaced with a new Sensor.

A Sensor that has been removed or that has fallen off cannot be reused. Start a new Sensor. The Reader, or FreeStyle LibreLink app, will identify that it is a new Sensor and ask if you want to start it.

To check the system is working simply switch on the Reader, or use FreeStyle LibreLink, and scan over the Sensor to get a glucose reading.^◊ If for any reason, the Sensor does not work, an error message will appear on the Reader or phone screen prompting the user to replace the Sensor.

If you have symptoms that do not match the FreeStyle Libre system reading or suspect your reading may be inaccurate, check the reading by conducting a finger prick test using a blood glucose meter. For convenience, there is a built-in blood glucose meter within the Reader that can be used for blood glucose readings. If you are experiencing symptoms that are not consistent with your blood glucose readings, consult your healthcare professional.

For full details please refer to the FreeStyle Libre system User Manual.

If the Sensor stops working due to extreme temperature, the user will get an error message indicating 'Glucose Reading unavailable'. The FreeStyle Libre sensor operating temperature range is 10°C to 45°C.

The FreeStyle Libre system has not been evaluated for use by persons on dialysis.

The performance of the FreeStyle Libre system when used with other implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, has not been evaluated. Therefore a person wearing a pacemaker should not use the FreeStyle Libre system.

The FreeStyle Libre system is only indicated for the humans.

The FreeStyle Libre reader and the FreeStyle Libre sensor can be exposed to common electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), including airport metal detectors. You can keep your FreeStyle Libre sensor on while going through these. However, the FreeStyle Libre reader and the FreeStyle Libre sensor should not be exposed to some airport full-body scanners (i.e. x-ray and millimeter radio-wave). To avoid removing your FreeStyle Libre sensor, you should request another type of screening to be performed by the Security Officer. If in doubt about the type of security scan you are passing through, notify the Security Officer prior to proceeding through the airport security checkpoint.

Used or unused Sensor packaging can go in general waste.

Once the FreeStyle Libre sensor has been placed on the arm, the used applicator (which contains a needle) and the lid can be screwed back together and can be placed in a yellow biohazard bag or sharps box.

The used FreeStyle Libre sensor should be placed in a clinical waste sharps box.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app enables you to scan your Sensor with your iPhone or Android phone^◊ so you can monitor your glucose without routine fingerpricks^†. When you scan the Sensor with a compatible phone that's running the FreeStyle LibreLink app, your glucose data is displayed directly on that device. The app has many of the same features of the FreeStyle Libre reader. See more of the features by viewing the FreeStyle LibreLink page.

A list of compatible devices and operating systems can be found in the Smartphone Compatibility Guide. If you are not sure of your phone specifications, you can also go to Google Play or the App Store on your mobile phone and search for the FreeStyle LibreLink version for your country. If you can't download the app, it's probably not compatible with your phone.

NOTE: The FreeStyle LibreLink app is not supported on rooted Android phones or jailbroken iPhones.

Yes. The FreeStyle LibreLink app is CE marked. Notified Body Identification No. 2797.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app is not currently compatible with Apple Watch. Please refer to the Smartphone Compatibility Guide for further details.

No, the FreeStyle LibreLink app is the only app that has been tested by Abbott to be compatible with FreeStyle Libre sensors.

NFC is the wireless communication technology that enables your FreeStyle Libre sensors to wirelessly transmit data to another device. To check if your phone is compatible with FreeStyle Libre sensors refer to the Smartphone Compatibility Guide.

Android:

After you've applied a FreeStyle Libre sensor to the back of your upper arm, open the app and hold the back of your Android phone near (exact distance will vary by phone) the FreeStyle Libre sensor to scan it. The size and location of the NFC antenna in Android phones varies by make and model, so you may have to move the phone around to find the best position for scanning FreeStyle Libre sensor. Once you have found the optimal scan position, wait for the app to produce two distinct tones or vibrations before you move the phone away from the FreeStyle Libre sensor. The first tone indicates the phone’s NFC has recognised the Sensor. The second tone indicates the scan is complete.

iPhone:

After you've applied a FreeStyle Libre sensor to the back of your upper arm, open the app and tap one of the scan buttons within the app to put the iPhone in a scan ready state. There are two types of scan buttons - a blue button on the Home screen and a gray scan icon in the top right corner of most screens. Hold the top edge of your iPhone near the Sensor and do not move your iPhone until you hear a tone and/or feel a vibration, which indicates the scan is complete.

You may or may not have to remove your phone case - it depends on the material that the case is made from, how thick the case is, and how well your phones NFC antenna works. If your phone case is made from plastic or silicone or another non-conductive material, you will probably be able to scan the Sensor without removing the case. If the case is aluminum, metal or anything else that has a conductive surface, you may need to remove the case before scanning your Sensor. The thickness of the case can also make a difference. If your case is very thick, it could prevent the phone from scanning the Sensor.

Yes. The app was developed using the same technology that is in the FreeStyle Libre reader for receiving and processing glucose data, so it can also be used for routine glucose monitoring. The app can be used instead of or in combination with the FreeStyle Libre reader.^◊

There's no need to use a separate blood glucose meter for routine testing^◊. The app allows you to get glucose results as often as you like by simply scanning your FreeStyle Libre sensor with your phone.

If you want to use the Reader and the app on the same Sensor, follow these steps:

1. You MUST use your Reader to start a new Sensor. A Sensor started with the app cannot be used with the FreeStyle Libre reader
2. Once the Sensor is started with the Reader, open your app and scan your Sensor with the app
3. Once the Sensor has warmed up, you can use either the app or the Reader to check glucose for up to 14 days
4. Scan the Sensor with the Reader or app within an 8-hour time period to avoid gaps in data

Remember that the FreeStyle LibreLink app and FreeStyle Libre readers do not share data with each other. For example, if you switch between your Reader and the app, you may see gaps in your glucose data, which will affect the reports available through the Reader, the FreeStyle LibreLink app, and LibreView. It is important to continue scanning your Sensor with either the app or the Reader at least once every eight hours so you and your healthcare professional can get a complete picture of your glucose trends and patterns.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app is intended to be used with only one Sensor (and one person) at a time. Each app account is associated with one person. However, people who use the FreeStyle LibreLink app can connect with their caregivers if they are using a separate app called LibreLinkUp. LibreLinkUp allows caregivers to remotely monitor glucose readings performed by their loved ones ^§.

Yes. People with diabetes can use FreeStyle Libre sensors with the app to better understand the impact of actions like eating, exercise, and taking insulin based on their glucose levels. They can also make day-to-day therapy decisions when using the app with a FreeStyle Libre sensor, including insulin dosing decisions, based on guidance from their healthcare professional.

Yes. If you use an Android phone, you may need to go to your phone's settings and reactivate NFC when your phone is in airplane mode. You can scan with your iPhone in airplane mode by tapping one of the scan buttons in the app to put it in a scan ready state.

Wi-Fi or a mobile data connection are only required for initial app setup (downloading / installing the app, creating an account, or signing in) and sharing your glucose information with your care team or with other connected apps. The app does not require a Wi-Fi or a mobile data connection to scan your Sensor or to record your current glucose readings. During periods when your phone is operating in a disconnected state, your data will only be uploaded to LibreView after a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection is restored.

No, the FreeStyle LibreLink app is meant to be used as often as you like and should not have a noticeable effect on battery life beyond your normal usage patterns.

If your phone battery dies, charge your phone to continue using the FreeStyle LibreLink app. Your data will not be lost if the phone battery dies and you can scan the Sensor while the phone is being charged.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app is not supported on rooted Android phones or jailbroken iPhones.

After installing the FreeStyle LibreLink app, tap Sign In. Then, tap Forgot Password. Enter the e-mail address that was used to create the account and follow the on-screen instructions. You will receive an e-mail with a link to reset your password. Follow the link to create a new password, then sign into your account using your new password.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app is currently available in the following languages:

• Arabic
• Chinese - Simplified
• Chinese - Traditional
• Danish
• Dutch
• English - United Kingdom
• English - United States
• Finnish
• French - Canada
• French - France
• German
• Greek
• Hebrew
• Italian
• Japanese
• Korean
• Norwegian
• Polish
• Portuguese - Brazil
• Portuguese - Portugal
• Russian
• Spanish - Latin America
• Spanish - Spain
• Spanish - United States
• Swedish
• Turkish

Note: The FreeStyle LibreLink app is displayed in the same language as your phone's operating system language. If you wish to use the FreeStyle LibreLink app in a different language, choose from one of the supported languages in your phone's system settings. The FreeStyle LibreLink app will update the next time it is opened. If the FreeStyle LibreLink app doesn't support the language set on your phone, the app will display text in English (US).

No, your glucose data from the FreeStyle LibreLink app will not be synced with FreeStyle Libre desktop software. The FreeStyle LibreLink app data is only stored by and visible through LibreView.^₼

The app will display a clock icon on the glucose graph to indicate when there has been a time change. It is necessary to use the correct time for accurate reports. If your phone's time is not set to update automatically, you will need to update your phone's time settings in order to continue using the app.

Sharing: Reports in the FreeStyle LibreLink app can be shared directly from the phone. You can connect the Reader to the computer with a USB cable to upload data.

Viewing: The Reader features a simple color touchscreen. Graphs are displayed in more color and higher resolution in the app.

Notes: You can add notes in the Reader within 15 minutes of a glucose reading. The app allows you to add and view notes at any time in the Logbook.

Text to Speech: If enabled in the app, you can hear the glucose reading with the unit of measure and trend arrow direction after each scan.

Reports: The Reader and the app use the same calculations to create glucose reports. Compared to the Reader, reports in the app will have more color, details, and interactivity. The app can also display an estimate of your A1c, in addition to basic stats about your glucose history in the last 24 hours.

Reminders: The app allows you to easily set custom reminders, as well as an 8-hour timer that resets every time the Sensor is scanned. App notifications on your phone must be enabled to see reminders.

Other: The Reader has an Insulin calculator and a port for test strips, so it can be used both for scanning Sensors and blood glucose readings.

The app includes a series of reports that highlight your glucose trends and patterns. From the main menu select the report you wish to see.

If you lose or change your phone, download the app again on a compatible phone and sign in with your account information. If you have an active Sensor and need to reinstall the app, when you sign into your existing account, you can continue using your active Sensor until the end of its useful life. You will not be able to view historical data in the new installation of the app, but this data will be available in LibreView.^₼

The app stores your account information, glucose data, notes, and Sensor information within the app on your phone, so it is your responsibility to limit access to your phone to protect personal information. The app also automatically uploads^Δ this data in LibreView a secure cloud-based data repository. Please read the Privacy Notice in the FreeStyle LibreLink app for more information.

Abbott and its partners comply with all applicable data protection and privacy laws in users' jurisdictions. Please read the End User License Agreement and Terms of Use or the Privacy Notice within the app or at LibreView.com to ensure that you are comfortable with the data handling practices that govern the use of the app and LibreView; otherwise, you should not install the app.

LibreView is used to manage your account information and enables detailed reporting and data sharing. Once the app is installed and you accept the terms of use, you will need to create a LibreView account in order to start using the app. LibreView allows you to share your glucose data with your healthcare professional and other apps that connect with FreeStyle LibreLink app.

Text to Speech is an optional feature of the FreeStyle LibreLink app. When the feature is turned on your glucose reading and your trend arrow will be read aloud when you scan your Sensor. This feature is by default turned off in the app. To turn it on go to the Settings Menu, select the Text to Speech and turn it on. Note that the text to speech reads aloud only your glucose reading and your trend arrow. Always review the My Glucose screen to get complete information. Remember that the Text to Speech inherits the volume settings on your smartphone. If your smartphone volume is turned off, you will not hear the glucose reading read aloud.

LibreView lets you create a clear, easy-to-understand glucose reports^₼, and allows you share them with your healthcare professional. LibreView is free and only takes a few minutes to sign up and to get started.

To use LibreView, you will need to connect the glucose device to any Windows PC or Mac computer with an Internet connection. Log in with your credentials and then follow the on-screen instructions to upload data.

Your glucose data is stored securely in LibreView, through which you can also share it with your healthcare professional.

Note: If you are using FreeStyle LibreLink to monitor your glucose, your data is automatically uploaded to LibreView every time you scan your FreeStyle Libre sensor.

Learn more: Compatible Devices

The LibreView system is free. There are no initial start-up costs and no subscription payments.

Currently, LibreView does not support insulin pumps.

You can create a Patient LibreView Account for yourself from an email invitation sent from your healthcare professional, or directly from the LibreView website. LibreView is free and usually takes only a few minutes to get started.

The Patient LibreView Account is compatible with Abbott Diabetes Care glucose devices only. If you are using FreeStyle LibreLink to monitor your glucose, your data is automatically uploaded^Δ to LibreView every time you scan your FreeStyle Libre sensor. You can log into www.libreview.com using the same credentials as your FreeStyle LibreLink app.

Refer to LibreView.com for more details.

Once you have installed the LibreView Device Drivers you can upload glucose data into your LibreView Account by connecting your device to your computer with a compatible data cable. Click on the Press to Begin Upload button on the Upload Device screen.

Note: If you are using FreeStyle LibreLink to monitor your glucose, your data is automatically uploaded to LibreView every time you scan your FreeStyle Libre sensor^Δ.

Abbott and its partners comply with all applicable data protection and privacy laws in users' jurisdictions. Please read the End User License Agreement and Terms of Use or the Privacy Notice within the app or at LibreView.com to ensure that you are comfortable with the data handling practices that govern the use of the app and LibreView; otherwise, you should not install the app.

In order to share your data with your healthcare team, your doctor can either:

• Send you an email from LibreView inviting you to share data, or
• Provide you with their unique Practice ID

If your doctor sent you an email, you can click on the link in the email to start sharing. If your doctor gave you a Practice ID, you will need to go into LibreView and enter the Practice ID under My Practices in your Account Settings.

The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.libreview.com for additional information.

LibreView Glucose reports can be used to help you more easily identify trends and patterns in your glucose data.^₼ For example, you may find that at certain times of the day your glucose is consistently trending high or low and you can focus on these areas for improvements. LibreView also allows you to quickly and easily share your glucose data with your Healthcare Professional to help you have better conversations about your diabetes.

The FreeStyle Libre Academy provides 9 bite-sized educational modules to support you to better understand your glucose data and get the most out of the FreeStyle Libre system. This can be accessed free of charge via www.freestylelibreacademy.com for details on individual LibreView reports, refer to the Patient Support section of the LibreView website.

The Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) graph, found on several reports, provides a visual reference for changing glucose levels over time. Sensor glucose data of 5 days or more are combined and plotted into a single 24-hr chart. By plotting data this way, you can see patterns of variability that may be common to a specific time of day.

The FreeStyle Libre Software has been replaced by LibreView. LibreView is a free, secure, cloud-based diabetes management system that has all same functionality of the original software as well as additional benefits such as web-based so it can be accessed from any computer, and automatic upload of data for anyone using the FreeStyle LibreLink phone app. You can access all the same reports and upload data from the FreeStyle Libre reader in the same way.

LibreLinkUp is a companion app to the FreeStyle LibreLink app, which allows glucose readings to be automatically shared with your caregivers in real-time. Both you and your caregiver must have a network connection to share and receive glucose readings. To add a LibreLinkUp connection through the FreeStyle LibreLink app, simply tap 'Share' in the main menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

eA1c is an estimated value for HbA1c based on the average Sensor glucose over the timeframe selected. eA1c is calculated using a formula from the published reference below*. eA1c is not meant to replace or predict the HbA1c tested in a laboratory. Instead you can use this value to monitor changes to eA1c over time.

* Nathan DM, Kuenen J, Borg R, et al. Translating the HbA1c assay into estimated average glucose values. Diabetes Care . 2008;31:1473-1478.

The FreeStyle Libre Academy is a free educational programme which consists of bite-sized educational modules designed to help you get the most out of your FreeStyle Libre system, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to help you manage your diabetes.

Our past webinars are available on demand through FreeStyle Progress, our free e-learning platform. Here you can also see when the next Live Webinar is planned to take place. Access FreeStyle Progress at www.freestylediabetes.co.uk.

A minimum of 5 days of Sensor data is required for an estimated A1c to be calculated.

Abbott and its partners comply with all applicable data protection and privacy laws in users' jurisdictions. Please read the End User License Agreement and Terms of Use or the Privacy Notice within the app or at LibreView.com to ensure that you are comfortable with the data handling practices that govern the use of the app and LibreView; otherwise, you should not install the app.

The Reader needs to be recharged if it runs out of power. The stored glucose readings on the Reader are not lost. The Reader should fully charge in approximately 3 hours if the battery is completely discharged.

With normal use, the Reader can be used for approximately 7 days before it needs to be recharged. A low battery warning will appear on the Reader when it needs to be recharged. There is a battery icon on the Reader which will indicate battery life.

Yes, you can get glucose readings through clothing by scanning the Reader or phone over the Sensor. The Reader can capture data from the Sensor when it is within 1cm to 4cm of the Sensor.

The oldest glucose readings will be lost if the Reader is not scanned at least once during an 8 hour period. This missing data will appear as a gap on your glucose reports. For example, if you scan the Reader over the Sensor at 1:00pm and again at 10:00pm, then you will lose glucose data from 1:00-2:00pm.

The Reader is smart enough to figure out what data is new with each scan and not double-count any data.

In the UK, the only language available is English. The language on the Reader is country-specific and therefore varies from country to country. If you require a different language, you can use the FreeStyle LibreLink app to scan the Sensor. The FreeStyle LibreLink app will use the language your phone is set to.

The Reader display timeout is 60 seconds (120 seconds from when a test strip is inserted).

If you receive the incorrect product please contact our Customer Services team on 0800 170 1177 to register a complaint and request a refund or replacement.

We ensure short delivery times so that you receive the products you have ordered as quickly as possible (approx. working 5-7 days) The delivery time is displayed during check-out process. We will notify you by email as soon as your order has been passed to our couriers.

Once you have completed your order, you can access the status of the items you have ordered by logging in to "My account". The "My orders" menu lets you track everything.

After you place your order, you will receive a confirmation email with the details of your order. We will also tell you when the goods have left our warehouse.

Deliveries can only be made within the UK. The online shop is unable to accept orders from abroad.

If you cannot be contacted during the day at the invoice address you have given, or if the order is intended as a gift, you also have the option of having your order sent to a different delivery address. The invoice is then sent separately to the invoice address given.

Most orders arrive on time. Occasionally though, the tracking may be marked as 'delivered' when you have not received your order. If the tracking for your order shows it as 'delivered' but you have not received it, you should:

• Check if someone else at your address has accepted it
• Look around the delivery location. Your order may have been left with a neighbour or in a safe place like a porch or garage
• Look for a notification of attempted delivery. You may find an attempted delivery notice in your letter box or on your door. Follow the instructions on that notice to request redelivery or to arrange collection
• Contact the carrier. Ask if they have additional information about where your order is. Make sure you have your tracking number or delivery confirmation number handy. Note: Some carriers may deliver until 10pm

Yes, after an order has been dispatched, parcels can be tracked on the internet. You can find tracking information in your order details.

To track your parcel:

• Go to My Orders
• Go to the order you want to track
• Click Track Package

Please keep in mind that some items may be dispatched separately and therefore may not arrive at the same time as the rest of your order.

Occasionally, parcels are returned to us as undeliverable. As we cannot re-dispatch orders that have been returned to us, if a carrier returns a parcel to us as undeliverable we will issue you a full refund, including the delivery costs. If you would still like to purchase the items in the parcel you will need to place a new order.

A parcel might be returned as undeliverable for several reasons:

• Incorrect address: If the address is incorrect or outdated, the parcel will typically be returned to us by the carrier or the unintended recipient. Please double-check the address carefully when placing your order
• Failed delivery attempts: Most of our carriers will make more than one attempt to deliver a parcel. If they find that they cannot successfully deliver your parcel it will be returned to us
• Refused by recipient: A gift recipient who is not expecting a gift may refuse a parcel if they believe it has been delivered to them by mistake. In this case we will refund the gift purchaser and let them know by e-mail. If you want to place a new order for the gift, you may want to let the recipient know that a surprise is on the way
• Illegible address: In rare cases, address labels may become illegible in transit. If that happens, a carrier will return the parcel to us
• Damaged in transit: If a parcel is damaged while it's on its way to you, the carrier may return it without attempting delivery

Visit the 'Your Account' page to view an estimated delivery date for your order. If this date has passed with no sign of your delivery then we recommend that you ask the carrier's local depot if they've already tried to deliver it, or ask your neighbour if the package has been left with them. If there is still no sign of your order, please check the 'My Orders' page for help.

Delivery is £4.94 and takes approx. 5-7 working days.

One specific order can only be sent to one specific address. You can store up to 5 different delivery addresses (all in the same country) in your account.

Deliveries placed on www.FreeStylelibre.co.uk can only be shipped to addresses in the United Kingdom.

You can pay via PayPal, without even creating a PayPal customer account. In order to do so, select PayPal as your preferred payment method during checkout. At the end of the ordering process you will be directed to PayPal. If you are already a PayPal customer, you can log in with your user data and confirm the payment. If you are new to PayPal and would like to pay via PayPal as a guest you can proceed with the payment as a PayPal guest.

Once the incoming payment is authorised, your order will be processed. PayPal payments are usually confirmed within a few minutes.

When sending goods back, the amount will be credited to your PayPal account.

The fastest way to pay in our shop is using a credit or debit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards and debit cards.

Your payment will be processed when your order is dispatched.

Payment data will not be stored until you have agreed to the terms and conditions of sale.

All prices are in GBP and exclude any delivery charges incurred. The price is the one that applied at the time the order was placed.

If you have a long-term illness or you're disabled, you might not have to pay VAT on certain goods and services that you buy or bring into the UK. For further information on VAT relief, please visit the HMRC website. People eligible to claim relief from VAT must complete the exemption form during the checkout process in order to pay price excluding VAT.

If part of the order is delayed, meaning that the order can only be delivered in several stages, you will not incur any additional delivery costs.

If items that are delivered display obvious material or manufacturing defects, please report them, either by calling our Abbott customer service free of charge on 0800 170 1177, or by sending an email to adchelpuk@abbott.com.

You can use a range of methods to pay for your purchase in the FreeStyle Libre online shop: by credit card / debit card and PayPal.

The contract shall take effect with Abbott Laboratories Limited, unless expressly specified otherwise.

Address:

Abbott Laboratories Limited.

Abbott House,

Vanwall Business Park,

Vanwall Road,

Maidenhead,

Berkshire, SL6 4XE

Registered Number: 329102 England.

If you are not happy with your order, you can return it to us within 14 days of delivery provided the following criteria is met:

Unopened Sensors:

If the outer packaging of the Sensors has been opened, but the Sensor box is unopened, then you may return the Sensors within 14 days of the date of receipt of the Sensors. If you wish to return Sensors as set out above, please contact the Abbott Customer Careline on 0800 170 1177 who will be able to advise you on how to return the Sensors to Abbott.

If the individual Sensors have not been opened and providing that you return the Sensors to Abbott within 14 days Abbott will refund the full purchase price to you and the delivery costs. You will be responsible for the costs of returning the Sensors to Abbott.

Opened Sensors:

In the event that you open an individual Sensor package (box), Abbott is unable to accept the Sensor for return for safety and hygiene reasons. You should dispose of the Sensor according to the instructions included in the package. Abbott is not able to offer any refund with respect to Sensors that have been opened.

Opened Reader:

In the event that you open your Reader package (box), Abbott is unable to accept the Reader for return for safety and hygiene reasons. You should dispose of the Reader according to the instructions included in the package. Abbott is unable to offer any refund with respect to a Reader that has been opened.

If you beleive the products are defective or faulty and the item was delivered more than 14 days ago you will need to contact us via our Customer Service careline on 0800 170 1177.

Abbott is committed to making its products safe for the user. After the insertion, the Sensor and the body need to equilibrate (or settle). We have found through our research that it is not always easy to accurately measure glucose in the body until this equilibration happens. Therefore, we let the system equilibrate for 1 hour to make sure that it is providing accurate glucose readings.

The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system offers a Trend Arrow with most glucose readings which tells you which way and how quickly glucose levels are changing. So, at any given time, you not only know what your glucose level is currently, but also which way it is heading. Depending on the direction of Trend Arrow, you can find out if your glucose levels are going up, down or staying steady, facilitating better decision-making.

Used or unused Sensor packaging can go in general waste.

Once the FreeStyle Libre sensor has been placed on the arm, the used applicator (which contains a needle) and the lid can be screwed back together and can be placed in a yellow biohazard bag or sharps box.

The used FreeStyle Libre sensor should be placed in a clinical waste sharps box.

The Sensor should be stored at 4°C - 25°C and the Reader storage temp is -20°C to 60°C.

No, the FreeStyle Libre sensor is calibrated during the manufacturing process so you don't have to. The Sensor is activated by scanning and then, after a 1 hour warm up period, it starts to record glucose readings automatically.

To obtain a glucose reading, simply perform a quick 1-second scan of the Reader, or FreeStyle LibreLink app, over the Sensor.

This easy scan gives you more information than a blood glucose test without the need for routine finger pricks^†. The FreeStyle Libre system can also connect to LibreView to generate concise reports^₼ that provide a clear analysis of your glucose data and allow sharing of glucose data to your healthcare professional.

Flash glucose monitoring is a user-friendly way to discreetly obtain glucose readings. What makes flash glucose monitoring system unique is that a quick scan of the Reader or phone over the Sensor provides a complete picture of your glucose^◊ including the current glucose reading, 8 hour history and trend arrow showing if your glucose level is going up, down or staying steady.

You can use the built-in meter to check your blood ketone levels using FreeStyle Optium^β ketone test strips (available on prescription). You should perform a blood ketone test on your fingertip only. Be sure to read the test strip instructions for use prior to using the built-in meter.

'Easy setup' is for users who use a fixed dose of rapid-acting insulin before meals. 'Advanced setup' is for users who count carbohydrates (in grams or servings) and/or use a correction factor to adjust doses of rapid-acting insulin at meals. The insulin calculator must be set up by a healthcare professional.

No, the insulin calculator can assist you with calculating rapid-acting (meal-time or short-acting) insulin doses only. The insulin calculator must be set up by a healthcare professional.

The insulin calculator utilises settings entered into the insulin calculator during one of two setup modes (Easy or Advanced); this feature requires an understanding of the use of insulin and must be set up by a healthcare professional. Using the settings they enter, the glucose reading from the built-in blood glucose meter and carbohydrate information (in grams or servings) the user provides, the insulin calculator software in the Reader calculates a suggested insulin dose.

The FreeStyle Libre Glucose Monitoring System is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in people (age 4 and older) with diabetes mellitus. The indication for children (age 4 - 12) is limited to those who are supervised by a caregiver who is at least 18 years of age. A caregiver at least 18 years old is responsible for supervising, managing, and assisting the child in using the FreeStyle Libre system and interpreting its readings.

Yes, the system can calculate a suggested mealtime insulin dose when using the built-in blood glucose meter since it has a built-in insulin dose calculator function.

Please note that this feature only works on the FreeStyle Libre reader when using the blood glucose test strip port and needs to be activated by a healthcare professional.

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) requires all drivers to monitor your glucose levels.

In February 2019, the DVLA updated their regulations to include Group 1 drivers to use Flash Glucose Monitoring systems for the purposes of driving. Drivers must not actively use their glucose monitoring system whilst driving a vehicle, instead you must pull over in a safe location before checking your device. Drivers using the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring system must get a confirmatory finger prick glucose level in the following circumstances:

If your glucose level is 4.0mmol/L or below.
If you have symptoms of hypoglycaemia.
If your glucose monitoring system gives a reading that is not consistent with your symptoms.
If you are aware that you have become hypoglycaemic or have indication of impending hypoglycaemia.
During times of rapidly changing glucose levels

Group 2 drivers must continue to use finger prick testing for the purposes of driving. Flash Glucose Monitoring systems are not legally permitted for the purposes of Group 2 driving.

For the most up to date requirements you can visit the website: https://www.gov.uk/diabetes-driving

The FreeStyle Libre system has been studied in two landmark randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which demonstrated improvements in diabetes outcomes for both Type 1 and Type 2 patients with diabetes, those are:

Bolinder J,et al. Novel glucose-sensing technology and hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes a multicentre, non-masked, randomized controlled trial. The Lancet 2016.

Haak T, Hanaire H, Aijan R et al. Flash glucose-sensing technology as a replacement for blood glucose monitoring for the management of insulin-treated type 2 diabetes: a multicentre, open-label radomised controlled trial. Diabetes Ther. 2016.

If the user has a medical appointment that includes strong magnetic or electromagnetic radiation, for example an X-ray, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or CT (Computed Tomography) scan, they need to remove the Sensor they are wearing and apply a new Sensor after the appointment. The effect of these types of procedures on the performance of the system has not been evaluated.

No. The FreeStyle Libre system has specific regulatory requirements that often vary by country.  Thus, FreeStyle Libre readers and Sensors purchased in one market may not be compatible with FreeStyle Libre readers and Sensors purchased in other markets. If you are travelling, it is advisable to ensure that you take enough Sensors with you to last the duration of your trip.

Yes, there is no interaction expected between tattoo ink and the Sensor. It is advised to avoid areas with scars, moles, stretch marks or lumps when applying the FreeStyle Libre Sensor.

Glucose levels can be measured from the bloodstream, or from the interstitial fluid (ISF), which surrounds the body’s cells. There is a 5- to 10-minute delay in ISF glucose response to changes in blood glucose,¹ which is unlikely to impact routine day-to-day treatment decisions. The average lag time of the FreeStyle Libre system is approximately 5 minutes.²

ISF glucose and BG measurements taken simultaneously won’t always match, and, in fact, are likely to be different.

1. Rebrin K, Sheppard NF Jr, Steil GM. Use of subcutaneous interstitial fluid glucose to estimate blood glucose: revisiting delay and Sensor offset. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2010;4(5):1087-1098.

2. Data on File, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc, Clinical Report: Evaluation of the Accuracy of the Abbott Sensor-Based Interstitial Glucose Monitoring System 2014.

‘Flash’ reflects the fact that users can obtain glucose readings quickly by simply scanning the Reader or FreeStyle LibreLink app over the Sensor. Flash glucose monitoring also provides a flash of insight to people with diabetes and their health care professionals.