FreeStyle Libre 2 PLUS Sensor
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor for people with diabetes aged 2 and over. It measures glucose in the fluid beneath the skin and sends readings to a compatible smartphone or FreeStyle Libre 2 reader, helping you see glucose levels, trends and optional high or low glucose alarms. It is a medical device rather than a prescription medicine and can be purchased privately in the UK.
Up to 15 days of glucose monitoring from each sensor.
Read glucose levels automatically on a compatible smartphone.
Optional alarms can alert you to high or low glucose.
Suitable for people with diabetes aged 2 years and over.
What is FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and how does it work
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus is a wearable glucose sensor used to monitor glucose levels in people with diabetes. It is applied to the back of the upper arm using the supplied applicator, with a small flexible sensor filament positioned just beneath the skin.
The sensor measures glucose in interstitial fluid and communicates readings to a compatible device. When used with a compatible smartphone and the FreeStyle LibreLink app, glucose readings can be displayed automatically every minute when the sensor and smartphone are connected and within range. Optional alarms can notify you when glucose is outside your chosen high or low thresholds.
The sensor can be worn for up to 15 days. It does not contain a pharmacological active ingredient and does not lower blood glucose itself; instead, it provides information that can support diabetes self-management.
How To Use
Use FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus according to the manufacturer's instructions and any advice given by your diabetes healthcare team.
Check that the sensor packaging is intact and that the sensor has not passed its expiry date.
Choose the recommended application area on the back of the upper arm and prepare the skin as instructed.
Assemble and apply the sensor using the supplied applicator.
Start the sensor using a compatible FreeStyle LibreLink app or FreeStyle Libre 2 reader.
Follow the app or reader instructions during the sensor warm-up period.
Monitor your glucose readings and trends through your compatible device.
Replace the sensor when its 15-day wear period has ended. Do not reuse a sensor.
If a sensor becomes loose or the readings do not match how you feel, follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and use a blood glucose meter when advised. Do not ignore symptoms of low or high blood glucose simply because the sensor displays a different reading.
What if my sensor falls off?
Do not attempt to reinsert a sensor that has come out. A loose sensor may give unreliable or no readings, so follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing it and applying a replacement. Contact Abbott if you need support with a faulty or prematurely detached sensor
How to stop using FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus
You can stop using the sensor by removing it from your upper arm. If you use CGM as part of your diabetes management, speak to your diabetes team before stopping so that an appropriate alternative method of glucose monitoring is in place.
How long does it take to work?
The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is designed to provide glucose readings after its initial start-up period, and each sensor can then be worn for up to 15 days. The exact start-up process depends on whether you activate the sensor with the compatible app or reader, so follow the instructions shown on your device.
Side Effects
Libre 2 Plus sensors are generally well tolerated. However, some people may experience mild skin reactions at the sensor application site.
Possible skin reactions may include:
Mild skin irritation
Redness
Itching
Sensitivity or irritation caused by the adhesive
Seek medical advice if you experience:
Severe or worsening skin irritation
Signs of an allergic reaction
Persistent swelling, redness, or pain at the sensor site
If the irritation does not improve or becomes worse, remove the sensor and speak with a healthcare professional.
Always read the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus user manual supplied with your sensor for full safety information.
Storage Information
Store unused sensor kits between 4°C and 25°C according to the product instructions.
Do not use it after the expiry date.
Keep the sensor in its original packaging until you are ready to use it and keep it away from children.
Do not use if the packaging is damaged or opened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know
Is FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus available over the counter?+−
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus is a medical device rather than a prescription medicine, and Abbott confirms that it can be purchased privately in the UK. NHS-funded access is separate and depends on eligibility and local prescribing arrangements.
How long can you use FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus for?+−
Each FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor is designed to be worn for a maximum of 15 days. Once the wear period ends, remove the sensor and use a new one rather than attempting to reuse it.
Can children use FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus?+−
Yes. The Libre 2 Plus is indicated for people aged 2 years and over with diabetes. Children aged 2 to 12 need supervision and assistance from a caregiver aged at least 18 years.
Can I use FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus during pregnancy?+−
The manufacturer's indication includes people with diabetes who are pregnant. Your diabetes or maternity team can advise you on the most appropriate glucose-monitoring approach and targets during pregnancy.
Does FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus work without a smartphone?+−
Yes. The sensor is compatible with the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader as well as the FreeStyle LibreLink app. However, how readings and alarms work depends on which device is used to start the sensor.
Do I still need a finger-prick blood glucose meter?+−
You may still need access to a blood glucose meter. Abbott advises checking glucose with a blood glucose meter when sensor readings do not match your symptoms or expectations, or when the system indicates that readings may be unreliable.
What happens if my FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor falls off?+−
Do not try to reinsert the sensor. If it becomes loose or falls off, it may provide no readings or unreliable readings. Follow Abbott's sensor support instructions and contact the manufacturer if you need help with a faulty or prematurely detached sensor.
Is Freestyle Libre 2 Plus water-resistant?+−
Yes. The sensor can generally be worn while showering, bathing and exercising. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding water exposure and submersion.
How do you remove FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus?+−
Gently peel back the adhesive and slowly remove the sensor from your skin. Clean the area afterwards if needed.
Which arm should you use?+−
Libre 2 Plus is designed to be worn on the back of the upper arm. Either arm can be used, provided the sensor is placed in the recommended area.
How do you connect Libre 2 Plus to the app?+−
Download the compatible Libre app and follow the instructions provided to pair and activate your sensor. Check that your smartphone is compatible before starting.
How accurate is FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus?+−
Libre 2 Plus is designed to provide glucose readings that help you monitor trends and patterns. In some situations, a finger-prick blood glucose test may still be needed, particularly if your symptoms do not match the sensor reading or your healthcare professional advises you to test.
Can Libre 2 Plus detect low blood sugar?+−
Yes. Compatible Libre 2 Plus systems can provide optional alarms when glucose reaches a high or low threshold that you have set.
Can you use Libre 2 Plus during exercise?+−
Yes. The sensor is designed to be worn during everyday activities, including exercise.
Can you sleep while wearing Libre 2 Plus?+−
Yes. The sensor is designed for continuous wear, including overnight.
Can you travel with Libre 2 Plus?+−
Yes. You can generally wear the sensor while travelling, including on flights. If you are travelling by air, follow the manufacturer's guidance and tell security staff that you are wearing a medical device if required.