Explore answers to common questions about the FreeStyle Libre system, its apps and software.
Explore answers to common questions about the FreeStyle Libre system, its apps and software.
No, the FreeStyle Libre system does not require finger prick calibration. However, a finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required in the following situations:
Yes, the FreeStyle Libre system automatically captures readings day and night so that glucose variations – including nighttime lows – can be seen throughout the day, as long as the sensor is replaced at least every 14 days and scanned at least once every 8 hours.
With each scan over the sensor, the reader displays the current glucose reading, the latest 8 hours of glucose history and where glucose levels are heading.
ISF is the fluid around the cells of the tissue below your skin. Glucose can freely move from your blood vessels to this fluid,1 making it a reasonable alternative to blood for measuring glucose. Changes in blood glucose take about 5-10 minutes (“lag time”) to be reflected in ISF glucose.2 However, this is unlikely to impact routine day-to-day treatment decisions. The average lag time of the FreeStyle Libre system is approximately 5 minutes.3 This is why ISF glucose and blood glucose measurements taken at the same time won’t always match – and, in fact, are likely to be different.
Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre system in Ontario,§ Quebec,¶ the Yukon** and PEI†† for eligible patients.
Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Ontario,‡‡ Manitoba,§§ Saskatchewan,¶¶ Quebec*** and PEI††† for eligible patients. Abbott is in the process of seeking public and further private reimbursement for the FreeStyle Libre 2 system across Canada.
No, it can easily be applied without the need for a doctor or nurse – an applicator makes it simple to replace the sensor.
The portion of the sensor that is inserted under the skin is less than 0.4 mm wide and is inserted only about 5 mm under the skin.
The sensor is 5 mm in height and 35 mm in diameter – about the size of a toonie.
One second.
The sensor automatically measures glucose levels every minute and stores readings every 15 minutes.
When the sensor is scanned, it automatically transmits 8 hours of data.
A sensor lasts up to 14 days before needing to be replaced.
Each time the sensor is scanned, it automatically transmits data from the last minute, even if that data has not yet been stored.
Yes, the FreeStyle Libre sensor is designed to be water-resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water. We recommend it not be immersed longer than 30 minutes.
While wearing the sensor, users generally won’t feel anything under the skin. In a clinical user experience study, over 90% of participants did not feel discomfort under the skin while wearing the sensor4.
The reader can be up to 4 cm away from the sensor and still capture data.
The reader stores up to 90 days of glucose information.
Yes, the reader can get a glucose reading through clothing with a thickness of up to 4 cm.
The FreeStyle Libre reader is designed to be used only with the FreeStyle Precision blood glucose and blood ketone test strips and MediSense control solution.
Since September 16, 2019, the FreeStyle Libre system has been reimbursed by the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program for qualifying Ontario residents who manage their diabetes with insulin.
The coverage will include both the FreeStyle Libre system sensors and reader.
If you qualify for ODB and you manage your diabetes with insulin, you are eligible for public reimbursement of the FreeStyle Libre system. Please speak with your healthcare professional (including your pharmacist) to determine if the FreeStyle Libre system is right for you.
More information about who is covered by the ODB program is available on the Ontario Drug Benefit website.
If you’re over the age of 18 and currently using insulin, you may qualify for coverage. Please speak to your prescribing physician to determine if you qualify. Your pharmacist can also provide additional information about coverage under RAMQ.
For residents of Quebec, the following two criteria must be met: intensive insulin therapy (insulin pump treatment or ≥3 insulin injections per day), and frequent hypoglycemic events during the last year.
FreeStyle Libre system sensors have been covered by RAMQ since July 10, 2019. Your prescribing physician needs to submit the application for coverage with RAMQ. Applications for public coverage will require up to 25 business days for processing.
You can check on the status of your application by speaking with your pharmacist or your prescribing physician.
If you qualify for coverage under RAMQ, you will receive reimbursement for a three-month period to determine if the FreeStyle Libre system is right for you. Requests for further coverage can be made through your prescribing physician. To help ensure you receive uninterrupted coverage, follow up with your healthcare provider before the initial three-month coverage period ends.
Since October 1, 2020, the FreeStyle Libre system has been reimbursed for Yukon residents over 18 years of age living with type 1 diabetes, who meet the benefit criteria.
To be eligible for public reimbursement, Yukoners with type 1 diabetes who meet the benefit criteria must register with the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefit program at 867-667-5092. People aged 65 or older can contact the Pharmacare program at 867-667-5403.
More information about who is covered by these programs is available on the Yukon government’s Care Services website.
Your physician will apply for coverage on your behalf if you qualify for public reimbursement. Please speak with your healthcare professional (including your pharmacist) to determine if the FreeStyle Libre system is right for you.
Since June 1, 2022, the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system has been reimbursed under the Prince Edward Island Pharmacare under their newly created provincial Diabetes Glucose Sensor Program. Those eligible must be 18 years of age or older, on multiple daily injections of insulin (three or more) or using an insulin pump, and must be enrolled in the Diabetes Glucose Sensor Program.
Enrolment in the Prince Edward Island Diabetes Glucose Sensor program began on May 18, 2022. Coverage has been effective since June 1, 2022. Details can be found online.
Coverage includes the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system sensors for those with diabetes who meet the criteria.
If you qualify for reimbursement for the FreeStyle Libre or FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring systems, you must submit by mail a completed PEI Glucose Sensor Program Initial Family Contribution Assessment and Release of Information form (PDF 356 kB) to the Glucose Sensor Program Administrator, Health PEI, 16 Garfield Street, Charlottetown, PE, C1A6A5. In subsequent years you can renew either online or via paper form.
The form can be downloaded and printed from the website or copies are available at local PEI Diabetes Education Centres.
Within this initial application form, there is a one-page Special Authorization document that requires completion by your medical practitioner, nurse practitioner or diabetes educator.
Please consult the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Provincial Diabetes Program website for additional details.
Please visit the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Provincial Diabetes Program website for additional details.
The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is a mobile application designed to work with FreeStyle Libre sensors. The app enables you to monitor your glucose using your iPhone or Android phone with a FreeStyle Libre sensor – there is no need to use a separate blood glucose meter for routine glucose monitoring. When you scan the sensor with a compatible phone (PDF 530 KB) that’s running the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app,* your glucose data is displayed directly on your phone.
With the app, you can:
To use the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app,* you must register with LibreView†, a cloud-based diabetes management system provided by Abbott and Newyu, Inc. Please see the product labelling for the FreeStyle Libre system and the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* for specific instructions on using the different products, including the supported age range.
Important: You must have a compatible iPhone or Android phone to install and use the app. See compatibility guide (PDF 530 KB).
The app is designed to work with iPhones and Android phones that meet the minimum requirements. You can check the compatibility guide (PDF 530 KB) for additional information.
Android users can download the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* from the Google Play Store. iPhone users can download the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* from the App Store. Please note that the app may not be available for download if your phone is not compatible.
Yes, the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is authorized by Health Canada, licence number 99351, and downloadable at no charge.
No, the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is the only app that has been tested by Abbott to be compatible with FreeStyle Libre sensors. The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* was developed to ensure compliance with local regulations, including safety and performance requirements in accordance with the intended use. Any product that is intended to be compatible with FreeStyle Libre sensors would also need to comply with these regulations.
NFC is the wireless communication technology that enables your FreeStyle Libre sensors to wirelessly transmit data to another device.
Please check our compatibility guide (PDF 530 KB) for more information about device compatibility before using the app.
The app has the same indications for use as the FreeStyle Libre system. The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system and the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* (“App”), when used with the FreeStyle Libre sensor, are indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in adults aged 18 years and older with diabetes mellitus. If you are using the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app,* you must also have access to a blood glucose monitoring system as the App does not provide one. Always read and follow the label/insert for detailed instructions and indication of use.
Android:
After you’ve applied a FreeStyle Libre sensor to the back of your upper arm, open the app and hold the back of your Android phone near (exact distance will vary by phone) the FreeStyle Libre sensor to scan it. The size and location of the Near-Field Communication (NFC) antenna in Android phones vary by make and model, so you may have to move the phone around to find the best position for scanning the FreeStyle Libre sensor. Once you have found the optimal scan position, wait for the app to produce two distinct tones or vibrations before you move the phone away from the FreeStyle Libre sensor. The first tone indicates the phone’s NFC has recognized the sensor. The second tone indicates the scan is complete.
iPhone:
After you’ve applied a FreeStyle Libre sensor to the back of your upper arm, open the app and tap one of the scan buttons within the app to put the iPhone in a scan-ready state. There are two types of scan buttons: a blue button on the Home screen and a grey scan icon in the top right corner of most screens. Hold the top edge of your iPhone near the sensor and do not move your iPhone until you hear a tone and/or feel a vibration, which indicates the scan is complete.
You may or may not have to remove your phone case – it depends on the material that the case is made from, how thick the case is, and how well your phone’s Near-Field Communication (NFC) antenna works. If your phone case is made from plastic, silicone or another non-conductive material, you will probably be able to scan the sensor without removing the case. If the case is aluminum, metal or anything else that has a conductive surface, you may need to remove the case before scanning your sensor. The thickness of the case can also make a difference. If your case is very thick, it could prevent the phone from scanning the sensor.
There’s no need to use a separate glucose meter for routine testing.* The app allows you to get glucose results as often as you like by simply scanning your FreeStyle Libre sensor with your phone.
However, a finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required during times of rapidly changing glucose levels when interstitial fluid glucose levels may not accurately reflect blood glucose levels or if hypoglycemia or impending hypoglycemia is reported by the system or when symptoms do not match the system readings.
No. The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is intended to be used with only one sensor (and one person) at a time. Each app account is associated with one person. However, people who use the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* can connect with their caregivers if they are using a separate app called LibreLinkUp.‡ The LibreLinkUp app‡ allows caregivers to remotely monitor glucose readings.
Yes. People with diabetes can use FreeStyle Libre sensors with the app to better understand the impact of actions like eating, exercise and taking insulin based on their glucose levels. They can also make day-to-day therapy decisions, including insulin dosing decisions, when using the app with a FreeStyle Libre sensor, based on guidance from their healthcare professional.
Yes. If you use an Android phone, you may need to go to your phone’s settings and reactivate NFC when your phone is in airplane mode. You can scan with your iPhone in airplane mode by tapping one of the scan buttons in the app to put it in a scan-ready state. Do not scan your sensor if restricted by flight regulations.
WiFi, or a mobile data connection, is only required for initial app setup (downloading/installing the app, creating an account or signing in) and for sharing your glucose information with your healthcare team or with other connected apps. The app does not require a WiFi or mobile data connection to scan your sensor or to record your current glucose readings. During periods when your phone is operating in a disconnected state, your data will only be uploaded to LibreView† after a WiFi or mobile data connection is restored.
No, the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is meant to be used as often as you like and should not have a noticeable effect on battery life beyond your normal usage patterns.
If your phone battery dies, charge your phone to continue using the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app.* Your data will not be lost if the phone battery dies, and you can scan the sensor while the phone is being charged.
No. The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is not supported on rooted Android phones or jailbroken iPhones.
After installing the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app,* tap “Sign In”. Then, tap “Forgot Password”. Enter the email address that was used to create the account and follow the onscreen instructions. You will receive an email with a link to reset your password. Follow the link to create a new password, then sign into your account using your new password.
The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is currently available in the following languages:
Note: The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* is displayed in the same language as your phone’s operating system language. If you wish to use the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* in a different language, choose from one of the supported languages in your phone’s system settings. The FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* will update the next time it is opened. If the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* doesn’t support the language set on your phone, the app will display text in English (US).
The app will display a clock icon on the glucose graph to indicate when there has been a time change. It is necessary to use the correct time for accurate reports. If your phone’s time is not set to update automatically, you will need to update your phone’s time settings in order to continue using the app.
Yes. The app was developed using the same technology that is in the FreeStyle Libre reader for receiving and processing glucose data, so it can also be used for routine glucose monitoring.* The app can be used instead of, or in combination with, the FreeStyle Libre reader.
You can monitor your glucose with either the app, the reader, or both.* You can use the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* and the FreeStyle Libre reader with the same sensor, as long as you start the sensor with the reader first, and then scan the sensor with your phone at any time during the sensor life.
Remember that the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* and the FreeStyle Libre reader do not share data with each other. If you switch between your reader and the app, you may see gaps in your glucose data, which will affect the reports available through the reader, the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* and LibreView.† It is important to continue scanning your sensor with either the app or the reader at least once every 8 hours so you and your healthcare professional can get a complete picture of your glucose trends and patterns.
The app includes a series of reports that highlight your glucose trends and patterns. From the main menu, select the report you wish to see.
A minimum of 5 days of sensor data is required for an estimated A1C to be calculated.
You can email or text reports directly from the app by tapping the share icon that’s displayed at the bottom of each report available within the app. You can also show the reports on your phone to your doctor or nurse during your next appointment. LibreView† may also be an option if your doctor has set it up for patients to share data. See Data management and LibreView† section.
If you are receiving this error message, it means that you are not using a Canadian IP address. Try to download the software from another location or device that uses a Canadian IP. If you still experience issues, please contact an Abbott Customer Care Representative at 1-800-461-8481. Remember, we’re here to help! We are available:
Monday-Friday: 8 AM-9 PM Eastern Standard Time
Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM Eastern Standard Time
Sunday: 9 AM-2 PM Eastern Standard Time
LibreView† is a cloud-based diabetes management system provided by Abbott and Newyu, Inc. LibreView† provides a secure repository for data from your FreeStyle LibreLink app,* and allows you to easily share your glucose data with your healthcare professional or others, if you wish. Data is automatically‡‡‡ uploaded to LibreView† when your phone is connected to the internet.
LibreView† is used to manage your account information; it enables detailed reporting and data sharing. Once the app is installed and you accept the Terms of use, you will need to create a LibreView† account in order to start using the app. LibreView† allows you to share your glucose data with your healthcare professional and with other apps that connect with the FreeStyle LibreLink app.*
The app stores your account information, glucose data, notes and sensor information within the app on your phone, so it is your responsibility to limit access to your phone to protect personal information. The app also automatically uploads‡ this data in LibreView†, a secure cloud-based data repository. Please see our Privacy policy for more information.
Abbott and its partners comply with all applicable data protection and privacy laws in users’ jurisdictions. Please read the End User License Agreement and Terms of use or the Privacy policy within the app or visit LibreView to ensure that you are comfortable with the data handling practices that govern the use of the app and LibreView† ; otherwise, you should not install the app.
If you lose your phone, download the app again on a compatible phone and sign in with your account information. If you have an active sensor, reinstall the app and sign into your existing account. You’ll be able to continue using your active sensor until the end of its useful life. You will not be able to view historical data in the new installation of the app, but this data will be available in LibreView.†
No. Your glucose data from the FreeStyle LibreLink app* will not be synced with FreeStyle Libre desktop software. The FreeStyle LibreLink app* data is only stored by and visible through LibreView.†
Yes, with your permission, the app is able to share glucose data with certain other apps. View the “Share” menu within the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app* to see what other apps are available for sharing in your region.
If you have any questions about the app or your data, including questions on how to close your LibreView† account, contact us.
LibreLinkUp‡ is a companion app to the FreeStyle LibreLink app,* which allows glucose readings to be automatically shared with your caregivers in near-real time.‡‡‡ Both you and your caregivers must have a network connection to share and receive glucose readings.‡
To add a LibreLinkUp§ connection through the FreeStyle LibreLink mobile app,* simply tap “Share” in the main menu and follow the onscreen instructions.
Every FreeStyle LibreLink scan is automatically sent to your smartphone, and up to 20 people can view results from a single FreeStyle LibreLink account.
You can get started with LibreLinkUp§ in 3 easy steps. Click here to learn how.
A1C is a measurement of your average glucose levels over the past three months. It’s used by healthcare professionals to measure how well your diabetes is being managed and is given as a percentage. The goal for most people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes is an A1C below 7%.5-7
The FreeStyle Libre system can give you actionable insights into your glucose trends and patterns. For example, it allows you to see how certain lifestyle factors, like food or exercise, are impacting your glucose levels. The actions you take based on these insights can help you better manage your diabetes and lower your A1C.
In fact, several studies have shown that people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes using the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system were able to lower their A1C by 0.55%, on average.8§§§
* The FreeStyle LibreLink app and the FreeStyle Libre reader have similar but not identical features. A finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required during times of rapidly changing glucose levels when interstitial fluid glucose levels may not accurately reflect blood glucose levels or if hypoglycemia or impending hypoglycemia is reported by the FreeStyle LibreLink app or when symptoms do not match the app readings. The FreeStyle Libre sensor communicates with the FreeStyle Libre reader that started it or the FreeStyle LibreLink app that started it. A sensor started by the FreeStyle Libre reader will also communicate with the FreeStyle LibreLink app. The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView.
† The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.libreview.com for additional information.
‡ The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check www.librelinkup.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp and FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app.
§ Automatic upload requires a wireless internet connection or mobile data connection.
¶ Those eligible for reimbursement in Prince Edward Island must be 4 years of age or older, be taking three or more daily injections of insulin or using an insulin pump, and must be enrolled in the Diabetes Glucose Sensor Program.
** The LibreView website is only compatible with certain operating systems and browsers. Please check www.libreview.com <Links to: https://www.libreview.com/> for additional information. [DEV NOTE: This is an external link. This will trigger the external link pop up.]
†† The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check www.librelinkup.com <Links to www.librelinkup.com> [DEV NOTE: This is an external link. This will trigger the external link pop up.] for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp and FreeStyle Libre 2 requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app.
‡‡ The FreeStyle Libre 2 app and the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader have similar but not identical features. Finger pricks are required if glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations. The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor communicates with the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader that started it or the FreeStyle Libre 2 app that started it. The FreeStyle Libre 2 app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the Compatibility Guide (PDF 69 kB) for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle Libre 2 requires registration with LibreView.
§§ For residents of Quebec, the following two criteria must be met: intensive insulin therapy (insulin pump treatment or ≥3 insulin injections per day), and frequent hypoglycemic events during the last year.
¶¶ For people over 18 years of age with type 1 diabetes.
*** Those eligible for reimbursement in Prince Edward Island must be 18 years of age or older, be taking three or more daily injections of insulin or using an insulin pump, and must be enrolled in the Diabetes Glucose Sensor Program.
††† The FreeStyle LibreLink app and the FreeStyle Libre reader have similar but not identical features. A finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required during times of rapidly changing glucose levels when interstitial fluid glucose levels may not accurately reflect blood glucose levels or if hypoglycemia or impending hypoglycemia is reported by the FreeStyle LibreLink app or when symptoms do not match the app readings. The FreeStyle Libre sensor communicates with the FreeStyle Libre reader that started it or the FreeStyle LibreLink app that started it. A sensor started by the FreeStyle Libre reader will also communicate with the FreeStyle LibreLink app. The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the Compatibility Guide (PDF 69 KB) for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView.
‡‡‡ Finger pricks are required if glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.
§§§ Official Mark of the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec.
¶¶¶ Use of FreeStyle LibreLink requires registration with LibreView. Automatic upload requires a wireless internet connection or mobile data connection.
**** Data from this study were collected with the FreeStyle Libre system. The FreeStyle Libre 2 system has the same features as the FreeStyle Libre system with optional real-time glucose alarms. Therefore, the study data are applicable to both products.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in people aged 4 years and older with diabetes mellitus. Always read and follow the label/insert.
The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in adults aged 18 years and older with diabetes mellitus. Always read and follow the label/insert.
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