5 FAQs About the FreeStyle Libre 3 - GoodRx (2024)

With advances in technology, people living with diabetes can now track their glucose (sugar) levels two ways. The first is with a glucose meter (glucometer) that uses a tiny drop of blood to measure your blood glucose. The second is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) that measures the glucose in the fluid under your skin.

There are several CGMs on the market. These digital health devices allow you to attach a sensor to your body and it tracks your glucose levels without a finger poke. Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 is a popular brand of CGM on the U.S. market.

If you’re just getting started with, or considering switching to, the FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM, you likely have questions about it. How does it work? And how is it different from previous models? Below, we’ll answer five frequently asked questions about the FreeStyle Libre 3.

1. How does FreeStyle Libre 3 work?

Like all CGMs, FreeStyle Libre 3 has three components that measure, send, and save glucose readings:

• Sensor: This is the part of the device that measures glucose readings. It contains a small microneedle that you’ll insert into your skin.

• Transmitter: This is the part of the device that sends glucose readings from the sensor to the receiver.

• Receiver: This is either a touchscreen device or a smartphone that receives and stores glucose readings from the transmitter. The receiver can also show glucose trends and alert for high or low glucose levels. What’s more, it can share your real-time data with a loved one or your diabetes care team. If you choose to use a smartphone as the receiver, you’ll need to download FreeStyle Libre 3’s application (“app”).

FreeStyle Libre 3’s sensor and transmitter come pre-assembled and ready to insert. The system is disposable and only meant to be used once. But each sensor lasts for up to 14 days after insertion. What’s more, an updated version of the Libre 3 sensor has been FDA cleared for up to 15 days of use. This longer-lasting sensor should be available in the near future.

Good to know: FreeStyle Libre 3 doesn’t measure blood glucose. It takes glucose readings from the fluid beneath your skin. Because of this, there is some “lag time” between when your blood glucose changes and when your CGM senses this change. If you’re experiencing symptoms of high or low glucose, you should use a glucometer to test your blood glucose.

2. How is FreeStyle Libre 3 different from previous models?

The FreeStyle Libre 3 system is an improved version of the FreeStyle Libre 2. And it has several differences compared to the FreeStyle Libre 14-day system. Notably, the Libre 3 sensor is smaller, more accurate, and measures glucose in real time.

The improved FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor

The FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor will be familiar to those already using the FreeStyle Libre 2 or 14-day systems. You still insert it in the same spot: the back of your upper arm. But, you'll notice that it’s much smaller than sensors from previous models.

The FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor is now the smallest and thinnest CGM sensor. It’s about the size of two U.S. pennies stacked on top of each other. This allows it to be more discreet and less bulky than earlier versions.

The sensor is also easier and quicker to insert compared to past models. The FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor comes attached to the applicator and ready to place on your arm. Previous models required you to connect the sensor to an applicator before inserting it.

Aside from how it looks and attaches, the biggest benefit is that the sensor’s technology is improved. FreeStyle Libre 3 has a greater transmission range. The receiver can connect to the sensor up to 30 feet away. It’s also more accurate than the past models. This can help you better assess your glucose levels and trends.

Checking glucose readings

With the FreeStyle Libre 3, you no longer need to manually scan the sensor with the receiver (hold it close to the sensor). The previous version, the Libre 2, uses flash glucose monitoring. This means that you will only know your glucose when you scan it.

On the other hand, the FreeStyle Libre 3 continually sends glucose readings to your receiver without scanning every minute. This is called real-time glucose monitoring. This means it continuously updates your glucose results on the receiver —all you have to do is look at the screen for results.

3. Does the FreeStyle Libre 3 connect to insulin pumps?

No, the FreeStyle Libre 3 doesn’t connect to insulin pumps. But that will likely change soon. The FDA cleared the CGM for insulin pump connectivity. But this function isn’t available in the U.S. yet. Abbott intends to add insulin pump compatibility to the Libre 3 as soon as possible.

Good to know: FreeStyle Libre 2 is currently compatible with the Tandem t:slim X2. So if you’re looking for a FreeStyle CGM that has this function, you may want to consider the Libre 2.

4. How much does the FreeStyle Libre 3 cost?

Two FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors (a 28-day supply) cost about $169.92 without insurance. Many insurance policies cover diabetes testing supplies, including CGMs. But they often have a preferred brand that they cover. Contact your health insurance company to see if they cover the FreeStyle Libre 3 and how much your copay or coinsurance may be.

Here are some other ways to save on the FreeStyle Libre 3:

• Save with GoodRx. GoodRx can help you save over 20% off the average retail price of the sensors. FreeStyle Libre 3’s price at certain pharmacies is as low as $135.99 with a free GoodRx discount.

• Save with a free trial. Abbott offers a free 14-day trial of the Libre 3 with the MyFreeStyle program. If you qualify, you’ll receive a voucher for one free sensor. You can present the voucher at your preferred pharmacy.

5. Can you buy the FreeStyle Libre 3 online?

Yes and no. You must have a valid prescription from a prescriber to purchase FreeStyle Libre 3. So you can’t just go onto Abbott’s website and order it. But there are telehealth services and mail-order pharmacies that may work with your insurance plan. Keep in mind this might not always be the best choice for your situation.

If you’ve never used a CGM before, it’s a good idea to see your diabetes care team in person. They can discuss available options and recommend the best CGM for you. Using telehealth services may be a choice if you’re out of refills for the Libre 3 sensors and unable to contact your regular prescriber for more.

It’s best to contact your health insurance company about where you can fill a prescription for the FreeStyle Libre 3. Insurance plans often only allow you to use certain pharmacies, or charge different copays at different locations.