FreeStyle Libre Reader 2 System Owner’s Manual
- June 1, 2024
- FreeStyle
Table of Contents
- FreeStyle Libre Reader 2 System
- Product Information
- Product Usage Instructions
- Three steps to apply sensor
- Tips to help keep your sensor in place
- Understanding your glucose measurements
- Capturing your data
- Understanding your data
- Time in Range
- Why is Time in Range important?
- It’s easy to set alarms on your phone
- DIGITAL HEALTH TOOLS
- The FreeStyle LibreLink app
- LibreLink
- LibreView
- Glucose Pattern Insights report
- FAQ
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
FreeStyle Libre Reader 2 System
Product Information
Specifications
- Water-resistant sensor up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
- Applicator for sensor application
- FreeStyle LibreLink app for data viewing
- Sensor worn on the back
Product Usage Instructions
Applying the Sensor
- Wash, Clean, and Dry: Choose a flat spot on your upper arm. Shave and cleanse with non-moisturizing, fragrance-free soap and water. Use an alcohol wipe to clean and let it air dry.
- Prepare Applicator: Open the sensor pack, align the dark marks on the applicator and sensor pack, apply firm pressure, and then lift.
- Apply: Press the sensor firmly onto the prepared area, listen for a click. After a few seconds, slowly pull back, leaving the sensor on the skin.
Tips to Keep Sensor in Place
- Watch the video tutorial on how to apply and replace your FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor
- Before applying the sensor, ensure the area is clean and dry for better adhesion.
- Watch the video tutorial on how to set up the FreeStyle LibreLink app and start your sensor.
Understanding Your Glucose Measurements
The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor readings may differ from fingerstick blood glucose tests due to the sensor filament’s position under the skin surface. The sensor filament is less than 0.4 millimeters thick and is inserted 5 millimeters under the skin surface.
Welcome to the FreeStyle Libre 2 system
As the #1 sensor-based glucose monitoring system used worldwide, the FreeStyle
Libre system has liberated millions of people with diabetes from the burdens
of fingerstick testing.2
We hope you enjoy your new FreeStyle Libre 2 system.
- Get real-time glucose 3, anywhere, right to your smartphone.5
- Understand how your body responds to treatment, food, and exercise.
- See patterns and trends and customise optional glucose alarms for lows and highs.
- Share insights with a healthcare professional
- Get the complete picture of your glucose levels, not just a snapshot.
Applicator
Used to apply the sensor.
Sensor
Worn on the back of the upper arm
The FreeStyle LibreLink app
Use your smartphone to see your data.5
The FreeStyle LibreLink app is free to download.8
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient data.
- Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care. Data based on the number of users worldwide for the FreeStyle Libre systems compared to the number of users for other leading personal use sensor-based glucose monitoring system.
- A fingerstick test is required if glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.
- 60-minute warm-up required when applying the sensor.
- Sensor is water resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes. Do not immerse longer than 30 minutes. Not to be used above 10,000 feet.
- 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 may require registration with LibreView.
- Notifications will only be received when alarms are turned on and the sensor is within 6 meters of the reading device. You must have override do not disturb settings enabled to receive alarms and alerts on your smartphone.
- The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.LibreView.com for additional information.
- A wireless internet connection or mobile data connection is required to download the FreeStyle LibreLink app. Charges may apply.
Three steps to apply sensor
-
Wash, clean, and dry
Choose a flat spot on your upper arm. Shave and cleanse with non-moisturising, fragrance-free soap and water then use an alcohol wipe to clean and let it air dry. Prepare applicator
Open the sensor pack by peeling back the lid. Remove the cap from the sensor applicator. Align the dark marks on the applicator and sensor pack. Apply firm pressure and then lift. -
Apply
Press the sensor firmly onto the prepared area. Listen for a click. After a few seconds, slowly pull back, leaving the sensor on the skin.
Watch the video tutorial on how to apply and replace your FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor
Tips to help keep your sensor in place
Before you apply the sensor
- Do not use body lotion or cream where
- Do shave any excess arm hair as it can get caught between the sensor adhesive and skin.
Tips to help keep your sensor in place
- Be sure to select a site on the back of your upper arm that will minimise the risk of knock-off.
- Be careful not to catch your sensor on a doorway, car door, seat belt, or furniture edges.
- After a shower or swim, take extra care when toweling off to avoid catching or pulling off your sensor.
- When dressing or undressing, be careful that you don’t catch your undergarments on the sensor.
Watch the video tutorial on how to set up the FreeStyle LibreLink app and how to start your sensor
Understanding your glucose measurements
Why are FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor readings sometimes different from a
fingerstick blood glucose test?
Blood glucose and sensor glucose are closely related but not identical. The
glucose measured by the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor has made its way from the
blood into the interstitial fluid. This takes a little time and so the sensor
glucose reading always lags behind the blood glucose reading of a fingerstick
test by about 2.1 minutes for children and about 2.4 minutes for adults.1 When
your glucose levels are stable, the two readings may be very similar. If
glucose levels are rising or falling, the two readings may be different.
This is completely normal particularly after meals, after taking insulin or
after exercising. Although the readings may differ slightly, the FreeStyle
Libre 2 system is accurate1 and safe to dose insulin from your sensor glucose
result.
Images are for illustrative purposes only.
Watch the video explanation
Capturing your data
Real-time glucose readings are automatically updated every minute and sent directly to your smartphone1.
- With the FreeStyle Libre 2 system, you get minute-to-minute glucose readings – anytime2, anywhere3 – to help you manage your diabetes more confidently.
- Quickly see how diet, exercise, stress, insulin, medication and other activities affect your glucose levels, so you can take appropriate action.
- You can also scan for glucose readings anytime’, even during a signal loss. This allows you to fill in up to 8 hours of missing data, so your glycemic picture is complete.
- The FreeStyle Libre 2 system enables the user to learn about how diet, exercise, insulin, and other activities
- The trend arrows show the direction that glucose is heading, supporting insulin management decisions.
- Optional glucose alarms4 let you know the minute your glucose is too low or too high.
Understanding your data
Reports that can easily and quickly provide the answers you need.
Time in Range
What is Time in Range?
HbA1c is your average glucose over the past two to three months. But a normal
HbA1c doesn’t mean your glucose is within your target range today1, is where
Time in Range can help.
Time in Range is the percentage of time that a person spends with their
glucose your Healthcare Professional to set your target glucose range.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 system automatically calculates the percentage of time
you spend in, above, or below target range, e.g. 3.9-10.0 mmol/L.
Why is Time in Range important?
- Every 10% increase in Time in Range results in ~0.8% decrease in HbA1 c in type 1 and type 2 patients2
- Every 5% (~1 hour per day) increase in Time in Range is associated with clinically significant benefits1
- Spending more Time in Range can reduce long-term eye and kidney health complications3
- Guidelines recommend spending at least 70% of your Time in Range (3.9-10 mmol/L)1,4
It’s easy to set alarms on your phone
The FreeStyle Libre 2 system has optional glucose alarms that provide a safety check every single minute. These are off by default and can be customised. To receive alarms your phone should be within 6 metres of you, and unobstructed at all times. If your phone is out of range of your sensor, you may not receive glucose alarms.
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient data.
1. 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 may
require registration with LibreView. 2. Signal Loss Alarm: Notifies you when
your sensor has not communicated with the App for 20 minutes and you are not
receiving Low or High Glucose Alarms. Signal loss could be caused by the
sensor being too far away from your smartphone (over 6 metres (20 ft)) or
another issue, such as an error or problem with your sensor. You must have
override do not disturb settings enabled to receive alarms and alerts on your
smartphone. 3. The Low Glucose Alarm setting can range between 3.3 mmol/L and
5.6 mmol/L. The Low Glucose Alarm can’t be set below 3.3 mmol/L. 4. The High
Glucose Alarm setting can range between 6.7 mmol/L and 22.2 mmol/L.
DIGITAL HEALTH TOOLS
Easily monitor your glucose on your smartphone anytime,1 anywhere,2 and
share results
The FreeStyle LibreLink app and the LibreLinkUp app are available for Android
and iPhone.
-
Easy monitoring
One app allows you to monitor and share your real-time glucose readings4 -
Easy insights
Share real-time glucose readings with your healthcare team for more consultations -
Easy connection
Share real-time glucose levels with your loved ones for peace of mind
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient data.
- 60-minute warm-up required when applying the sensor.
- Sensor is water resistant in up to 1 meter (3 feet) of water. Do not immerse longer than 30 minutes. Not to be used above 10,000 feet.
- Haak, T. Diabetes Ther (2017): https://doi.org/10.1007/13300-016-0223-6.
- 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 may require registration with LibreView.
- Unger, J. Postgrad Med. (2020): https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.2020.1744393.
- The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.LibreView.com for additional information.
- The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check www.LibreLinkUp.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp and FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app. 8. Campbell, F. Pediatr. Diabetes (2018): https://doi.org/10.1111/pedi.12735.
The FreeStyle LibreLink app
View data anytime,1 anywhere2, with the FreeStyle LibreLink app.
- Phone displays the current glucose reading, trend arrow, high and low glucose alarms, and up to 8-hours of glucose history.
- Easy to add notes to track food, insulin use, exercise, and other events.
- Connect to Healthcare Professionals and caregivers with LibreView3 and LibreLinkUp4.
- Get glucose alarm notifications right on your compatible smartwatch5–7.
Data captured with the FreeStyle LibreLink app is uploaded wirelessly and automatically8 to LibreView.3
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient or data.
- 60-minute warm-up period is required when applying the sensor.
- Sensor is water resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water. Do not immerse longer than 30 minutes. Not to be used above 10,000 feet.
- The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.LibreView.com for additional information.
- The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check www.LibreLinkUp.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp and FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app. 5. To receive alarms from the FreeStyle LibreLink app on your smartwatch, alarms must be turned ON, your phone and smartwatch must be connected, and your devices configured to deliver notifications.
- 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 may require registration with LibreView.
- Smartwatch notification mirroring on the FreeStyle LibreLink app has only been tested with certain smartwatches and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about smartwatch compatibility.
- Sharing of glucose data requires registration with LibreView. Automatic upload requires a wireless internet connection or mobile data connection.
LibreLink
With the LibreLinkUp app, you can share your glucose readings and alarms with your family and friends. Ideal for parents2 and caregivers, the LibreLinkUp mobile app allows them to keep up-to-date with your glucose levels, wherever they are.3
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient or data.
1. The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile device and operating systems. Please check www.LibreLinkUp.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app. 2. For children aged 4-12, a caregiver at least 18 years old is responsible for supervising, managing, and assisting them in using the FreStyle Libre system and interpreting its readings. 3. Transfer of glucose data between applications depends on internet connectivity.
LibreView
Signing Up
If you already have a FreeStyle LibreLink account, you can sign in to
LibreView with the same credentials. If not, then you can sign up to LibreView
directly on the LibreView website.
Visit LibreView.com
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient or data.
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 may require registration with LibreView.
-
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 device data to support
for professional healthcare advice. -
Sharing of glucose data requires registration with LibreView. Automatic upload to LibreView requires a wireless internet connection or mobile data connection.
Glucose Pattern Insights report
Discover glucose patterns and trends so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient data.
- Battelino T, Danne T, Bergenstal RM, et al. Clinical targets for continuous glucose monitoring data interpretation: recommendations from the international consensus on time in range. Diabetes Care. 2019;42(8):1593-1603.
- The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.LibreView.com for additional information.
We’re here to help
If you would like more information or have additional questions about the FreeStyle Libre 2 system, please contact our Abbott Customer Careline or visit our website for useful resources.
Visit www.FreeStyleLibre.za.com for more
information
Abbott Customer Careline
0800 222 688
Monday to Friday:
09h00 – 17h00
FAQ
Why are FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor readings sometimes different from a fingerstick blood glucose test?
The sensor filament is positioned differently from capillary blood glucose tests, measuring glucose levels in interstitial fluid under the skin surface. This variance can lead to slight differences in readings. For more information, refer to the video explanation provided.
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>