Freestyle Libre CGM
Freestyle Libre Prescription Online
Continuous glucose monitors allow you to track your glucose levels throughout the day. We can prescribe you the Freestyle 2 or Freestyle 3 system. Take control of your health and avoid the routine finger sticks. Consult with one of our medical providers through messaging or phone call and have a prescription sent in to your pharmacy.
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The Freestyle Libre system is a continuous glucose monitor made by the company Abbott. It measures glucose levels through a quarter sized sensor placed on the back of your upper arm. It provides real-time glucose readings to a monitor on your phone. It can also send you alarms when your glucose levels are very high or low.
It goes without saying that daily glucose monitoring for diabetics can be a hassle. Painful finger sticks with the need to carry around lancets, strips, and a bulky glucometer. With the added inconvenience, it can be challenging to adhere to a diabetes management plan. A continuous glucose monitor can help you keep a better understanding of your daily glucose levels with less hassle.
- Significantly reducing the need for finger pricks.
- Convenient when you’re on the go.
- Ability to check your levels from your phone
- Provides you with insight on how your glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day. This gives you a better understanding how factors such as food, activity, stress, and medication can impact your levels.
- It can give you early warnings of highs and lows.
The recommended spot for the sensor is the back of your upper arm. This area is ideal because it’s less likely to get bumped or knocked off, and it ensures the sensor gives accurate readings. Just remember to apply it to clean, dry skin and rotate the spot each time to avoid irritation.
Yes, the FreeStyle Libre sensors are water-resistant! You can shower, swim, or bathe while wearing it. However, it’s important to note that it shouldn’t be submerged in water deeper than 3 feet, or for longer than 30 minutes. So, feel free to dive into your day without worrying about the sensor. For very active individuals, you can purchase CGM covers as an additional means of securing the device. Keep in mind, you will have to remove your sensor if you are going to have an MRI or CT scan performed.
Each sensor lasts up to 14 days, The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus offers an extended wear time of 15 days, compared to the 14-day wear time of the FreeStyle Libre 3.
After applying a new sensor, it takes about 1 hour for it to start giving you readings. During this warm-up period, you can still use your regular glucose meter to check your levels.
The FreeStyle Libre 3 takes readings every single minute, giving you real-time glucose tracking. Your data gets stored in the app every 5 minutes, and the sensor holds up to 14 days’ worth of readings.
The original Freestyle Libre 14-day does not have alarms. The FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 system has 3 alarm options (all are optional):
- A low glucose alarm if your readings fall below a level you set.
- A high glucose alarm if your readings rise above a level you set.
- A loss signal alarm which will notify if your glucose alarms are not available due to your sensor losing communication with the reader or phone for more than 20 minutes.
CGMs are designed to measure the glucose levels in the interstitial fluid beneath your skin. Glucose enters the bloodstream first and eventually makes its way to the interstitial fluid. Your blood glucose monitor provides a glucose reading for a specific point in time while your continuous glucose monitor can show you which way your glucose is trending. This can provide insight and help you to figure out how your body responds to triggers such as food, medication, exercise, and stress.
| Key Differences | The FreeStyle Libre 3 is smaller, thinner, and the newest version. It provides real-time glucose readings every minute directly to your smartphone app. Meanwhile, the FreeStyle Libre 2 gives you the option to use a handheld reader if you prefer not to rely on a phone. |
| Choosing the Right CGM | When deciding between the FreeStyle Libre 2 and FreeStyle Libre 3, it comes down to personal preference. If you want a more compact device and are comfortable using an app, the FreeStyle Libre 3 might be the better option. For those who prefer a reader, the FreeStyle Libre 2 still offers fantastic features and reliability. |
The main differences between the FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus systems are:
- Sensor Duration: The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus has an extended wear time of 15 days, compared to 14 days for the FreeStyle Libre 3.
- Accuracy: The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus meets more stringent accuracy and control measures compared to the regular FreeStyle Libre 3 system, providing enhanced safety
If you have health insurance coverage and meet medical criteria, most insurance plans will provide some coverage – deductibles/co-pays will vary depending on your specific insurance plan, but out-of-pocket costs for sensors will range from $0-$75 per month.
Without insurance, your monthly out-of-pocket costs for the sensors can range form $75 – $140, prices vary with pharmacy and some offer membership discounts (example: Costco).
Abbott (the manufacturer of the Freestyle CGMs) may be able to help you with a free 14-day trial, including the reader and one 14-day sensor. To find out how to start the 14-day trial, click here
| Age and Setup Time | The FreeStyle Libre 3 can be used by individuals 4 years and older, while the Dexcom G6 is approved for children as young as 2. In terms of setup, FreeStyle Libre 3 requires a 1-hour warm-up, while Dexcom G6 takes 2 hours before it starts giving readings. |
| Frequency of Readings | FreeStyle Libre 3 updates your glucose levels every minute, while Dexcom G6 provides updates every 5 minutes. If you prefer more frequent updates, FreeStyle Libre 3 might be the better choice for you. |
Yes! You are able to get a prescription for a continuous glucose monitor with prediabetes. Insurance companies will primarily only cover for CGM’s if you are diabetic and taking insulin. You are able to get a prescription and pay out of pocket regardless of your medical history. Have a conversation with your medical provider regarding your health goals and see if a CGM is right for you.
Yes. Continuous glucose monitors are regulated by the FDA and are only approved for use with a prescription from your doctor. You can always have a quick consultation with us through messaging or phone call.
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Message us for a brief consultation, and have prescriptions sent to your pharmacy on the same day. We are able to write you for a 3 month supply. If we can’t help you, there is no charge. Follow up visits for refills are $39.99.