FreeStyle Libre: glucose level monitoring by Abbott

Finally, there appeared a convenient glucose monitoring system for diabetics. The new device – FreeStyle Libre by world-renowned company Abbott ­– does not require finger pricks, which makes the procedure totally pain-free. The system consists of a small sensor and a device to scan and display data. The procedure takes no longer than a minute, and the sensor data are stored in the device for three months, which allows glucose value dynamics monitoring.

Many people all over the world face diabetes and that causes certain inconvenience, as constant glucose level monitoring is necessary. Previously, the glucose level was determined with the help of special blood indicators, but now there appeared a new way to measure it – FreeStyle Libre device. This is an innovative technology by Abbott, the company, which has been developing medical equipment for many years now.

FreeStyle Libre system and its specifications

The vice-president of the company declared proudly that finally, the lives of people with diabetes would improve significantly, and the whole world could not but admire it. Patients, who are four years and older, can use the device. The system has several specifications, which make its use simpler and guarantee accuracy of results:

• round-the-clock monitoring – the sensor measures glucose levels by itself and stores data during the day;
• pain-free procedure – the scanning lasts just a second and can be done even through clothing;
• security of the device – glucose levels will be monitored continuously, as the device can be worn while showering, working out or swimming in the pool;
• full data – when scanning, you will see the current glucose level, data for the last 8 hours and an arrow, indicating increase or decrease of blood glucose level.

Components of the device  

In order to function properly, the device consists of three components:

• sensor;
• reader;
• software.

FreeStyle Libre sensor is very convenient to use, as it can not only determine glucose level non-invasively, but also determine if there are ketones. The sensor is also of small size (35 mm x 5 mm), which means that it is convenient to wear easily and discreetly under clothing. In addition, it has to be changed once in two weeks and is fully water-resistant. And, of course, the main advantage is absence of calibration and finger pricks.

The reader uses advanced sensor-based technology to read and display data. The FreeStyle Libre reader is compact, which makes it easy to carry around. The charts, displaying the glucose level, are easy to understand, and the color screen makes them even more distinct and shows the changes dynamics. The data is stored on the device during three months.

The software registers all the data into the outpatient profile, sums them up and displays the tendency of glucose level changes.

For people, who have such a dangerous disease as diabetes, glucose level monitoring is an everyday duty. That is why absence of painful and uncomfortable procedures really helps them, as now the control will be easy, convenient and painless.