Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 Revealed: Smart Glucose Monitoring & Complete Guide for 2025

Written by Dr Syed Saad Ali [PharmD, DOW University Of Health Sciences (DUHS)], Karachi, Pakistan)

Picture 1: Taken from Abbott Freestyle home

"Finger Prick! Finger Prick! Ohhh, please make it stop! No one likes to prick their finger 5-8 times a day."

Let's be in a real scenario: it's messy while inserting and getting errors, carrying lancets with care of sterility during the process, and waiting for the right numbers that decide your meal and safety.

But wait a minute, because Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 glucose monitoring will simplify everything. Go! Just set up a sensor and get your reading on your phone with customized notifications and alarms in a day, at any time, and anywhere in the world.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 consists of a sensor that continuously measures your glucose levels throughout the day flawlessly without the need for finger pricking. The sensor can continuously monitor your glucose levels (CGM) for up to 14 days without any hassle of being wet while you can take a bath, shower, wash, exercise, and even swim or play. Libre 2 is approved for children aged 4 and above, adolescents, and pregnant women.

Before discussing FreeStyle Libre 2 and the How to Use It guide, Let's understand how Continuous Glucose Monitoring devices (CGM) and Flash Glucose Monitoring devices (FGM) work!

Difference between CGM and FGM

The key difference between these two is that CGM is connected to a mobile through Bluetooth, and all the sugar level readings will come up on your screen, smoothly and intermittently, depending on how many times you want to monitor in a day. Moreover, based on the results, the Insulin pump or Smart Insulin pen attached to your waist or abdomen connected to it will ultimately adjust its dose as per the sugar levels reported. The entire cycle is called “Closed Loop System,” where the Insulin Pump, Sensor, and Phone work in a closed loop.

FGM devices also measure glucose continuously in the interstitial fluid but do not always send real-time data to the receiver. The user of the FGM device must scan the sensor attached to their arm, and a reading will be sent to their phone or receiver. This means it does monitor, but for a reading, you just have to take your phone or receiver close to your sensor, and there you have the reading!

It's a stand-alone blood glucose monitor that does not work in a closed loop like CGM or integration with insulin pumps; however, it's generally affordable if you are finding one in a low price bracket.

Looking for a smart diabetes companion that keeps you effortlessly updated on your glucose levels 24/7?Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 stands out as one of the smartest choices in the world of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs).No pricks, no hassles! Just real-time data.

Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 Usage Guide: How It Works & How to Apply?

For your convenience, the complete guide of 'How to set up your Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 for the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)’ video and written instructions are available here:

1. Cleaning of the Site of Application

Choose a flat surface at the back of your arm or your abdomen/waist, then use an alcohol wipe to clean it thoroughly and let it dry to ensure proper adhesion.

2. Fixing the Sensor in the Applicator

Peel off the wrap from the sensor surface. Then, tilt and match the marks on both the applicator and the sensor as shown in the video. Once aligned, simply press down firmly to lock it. Once loaded, it is ready for application!

3. Senior Application

Now, place the applicator firmly on the cleansed surface of your arm or waist. The tiny disc-shaped sensor gets painlessly inserted. It can stay in place for up to 14 days.

4. Connect with your Smartphone App.

On your smartphone, download and use the Abbott Freestyle Libre app. Simply tap your phone once to the sensor to pair it with your new sensor via NFC. Within minutes, real-time glucose data begins to stream.

6. Set Customized Alerts & Reminders

To be notified of sudden fluctuations, personalize your high and low alert notifications for your glucose management. Freestyle Libre 2 also makes it simple to share your real-time readings with family members, caregivers, or medical professionals for improved support and remote monitoring.

Picture taken from: Freestyle Abbott

Who Should Use Freestyle Lispro 2?

Abbott Freestyle Lispro 2 is appropriate and should be used according to the following requirements and needs. However, it is always recommended to consult your Doctor or Pharmacist first.

· Rapid insulin treatment for adults.

· Children and adolescents with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

· Women with gestational diabetes during pregnancy

· Elderly patients require constant observation.

· During workouts, active consumers require real-time alerts.

How much does the CGM Freestyle Libre 2 cost in Pakistan?

In the USA & UK, the FreeStyle Libre 2 system normally costs between $70-$150 per sensor in the US without insurance. If purchased, the reader costs an extra $80-$110. The lifespan of each sensor would be 14 days. Since each Freestyle Libre 2 sensor lasts up to 14 days, a typical diabetic patient would use two sensors per month for continuous glucose monitoring.

In Pakistan, the Freestyle Libre 2 sensor costs between 18k and 19k, depending on the retailer, while the reader costs between 8k and 9k. This adds up to the total cost of the Abbott CGM package, which includes both the reader and the sensor, which is 29k.

Final Notes. Is it worth it?

Yes! With Abbott Freestyle Lispro 2, diabetes treatment becomes predictive rather than reactive. You understand your blood sugar levels, not just know them, but also make lifestyle modifications based on continuous real-time data. That's why we called it "Freestyle" Lispro 2. 

FreeStyle Libre systems measure blood sugar continually, helping you learn how food, sleep, and exercise can impact your blood sugar levels. Thus, you can more confidently manage your diabetes. Whether you are a family member's caregiver or a diabetic patient, this smart CGM device will ensure digital health monitoring, security, and convenience in the future.