
Freestyle Libre 14 Day: Accuracy, Sensor Size & More
People searching for the Freestyle Libre 14 day should be well aware of the fact that the Freestyle Libre 2 sensors and Freestyle Libre 3 sensors both last up to 14 days. Although the lifespan of these sensors is the same, there are considerable differences between these sensors. The Freestyle Libre 3 sensor is the world’s first smallest sensor with impressive accuracy. This blog provides you with features, accuracy, size, and eligibility of these sensors.
A Glimpse at CGM Sensors:
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) typically consist of a small sensor to be inserted with the help of a micro pin under your skin and a reader to show you your glucose data. Many of the new CGMs are fully smartphone-controlled, and thus, using a reader is not mandatory with these sensors.
The micro pins inserted under your skin collect your glucose data from interstitial blood, and this data is transmitted by the transmitters. Some of the old transmitters used to have a separate transmitter, e.g., Dexcom G6 sensors. However, most of the latest CGMs have transmitters installed within the sensors, e.g., the Libre 2 sensor and the Libre 3 sensor.
FreeStyle Libre 2 vs. FreeStyle Libre 3 (14-day sensors)
Feature | FreeStyle Libre 2 | FreeStyle Libre 3 |
Sensor Size | 35 mm diameter, 5 mm height | 21 mm diameter, 2.9 mm height |
Weight | ~5 grams | ~1 gram |
Sensor Wear Duration | Up to 14 days | Up to 14 days |
MARD (Mean Absolute Relative Difference) | ~9.4% | 7.8% |
Warm-Up time | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
Water Resistance | Up to 1 meter (3 feet) for 30 minutes | Up to 1 meter (3 feet) for 30 minutes |
Alarms | Optional real-time high/low glucose alarms | Real-time high/low glucose alarms |
Data Sharing | LibreView (cloud-based system primarily used by the Doctors) and LibreLinkUp app (usually used by parents or loved ones to keep an eye on your glucose levels) | LibreView (cloud-based system primarily used by the Doctors) and LibreLinkUp app (usually used by parents or loved ones to keep an eye on your glucose levels) |
Reader Compatibility | Requires FreeStyle Libre 2 reader | Compatible with FreeStyle Libre 3 reader |
Smartphone Control | Supported via the LibreLink app | Supported via the LibreLink app |
Indicated Insertion Sites | Upper arm (avoiding moles, scarring, or recent insulin injections) | Upper arm (avoiding moles, scarring, or recent insulin injections) |
Compatibility with Insulin Pumps | NA | NA |
Age Indication | Ages 4 and older | Ages 4 and older |
Prescription Requirement | Required for purchase | Required for purchase |
Reader Dimensions | 95 mm x 60 mm x 16 mm. Weight: 65 grams |
95 mm x 60 mm x 16 mm. Weight: 65 grams |
Reader Battery Life | Approximately 4 days of typical use | Approximately 4 days of typical use |
Reader Memory | Stores up to 90 days of glucose data | Stores up to 90 days of glucose data |
Reader Operating Temperature | 50°F to 113°F | 50°F to 113°F |
Reader Moisture Protection | Keep dry | Keep dry |
Here is the complete guide to sharing glucose data from your LibreView app to the LibreLinkUp app.
While the Freestyle Libre 14 days CGMs have been popular for their accuracy, the Freestyle Libre 15-day CGMs, e.g., Freestyle Libre 3 Plus sensors, offer even more value by giving similar accuracy with longer life and AID system compatibility as well.
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Conclusion:
The CGMs have not only switched the way people used to monitor their glucose, but have also helped them elevate their A1C levels. While the Freestyle Libre 14 day has been the top choice of many users, the company has introduced more advanced systems with up to 15 days of life and AID compatibility. Knowing that some people may experience issues claiming CGMs through insurance, Deliver My Meds offers flexible buying options so you can claim yours using insurance or buy one using your debit or credit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: This blog is only for informational purposes. Always consult your healthcare specialist before taking any medication.