What is FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Sensor? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to set up the FreeStyle Libre 3 app:

• Download the FreeStyle Libre 3 app to your smartphone.

• Disable automatic operating system updates on the smartphone.

• Always keep the smartphone’s Bluetooth turned on.

• Open the app and set up the alarms in the app.

• Do not force close the app on the phone.

• Keep the phone charged.

Any headphones or speakers should be detached from the phone if they’re not being used.

Keep the phone within 33 feet of the sensor at all times.

The sensor can also be used with the FreeStyle Libre 3 reader. 

How to place a sensor:

• Read the Sensor Application Guide and Adhesion Guide first.

• Do not use the sensor if it has been damaged or passed its expiration date. 

• Sensors should always be placed on the flat part of the back of the arm.

• Choose a place that is at least one inch away from the nearest insulin injection site.

• Wash the application site with a non-moisturizing, fragrance-free soap.

• If there’s hair, consider shaving the site.

• Wipe the skin with an alcohol swab.

• Let the skin completely dry before applying the sensor.

• Remove the sensor applicator cap. Set it aside.

• Press the applicator firmly against the skin on the back of the arm.

• Listen for a click. Wait a few seconds.

• Slowly pull the applicator away.

• Make sure the sensor is firmly attached.

• Place the cap back on the applicator.

• Follow the pharmacist’s instructions when disposing of the applicator.

After a sensor is in place:

• Connect the sensor to the app or the reader. You can only connect the sensor to one or the other, not both.

• Scan the sensor with either the smartphone app or reader following the instructions in the User Guide or Quick Start Guide.

• Check the sensor by taking a reading on the smartphone app or reader.

• You can check glucose readings 60 minutes after the sensor has been scanned. You will receive a notification on the smartphone when it’s ready.

• Check the accuracy of the sensor’s readings for the next 12 hours by taking regular fingerstick tests.

• The sensor can only operate in a temperature range between 50°F and 114°F.

• The sensor can be immersed in water up to three feet deep for up to 30 minutes. 

How to connect the sensor with an insulin pump:

• The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus system only works with the Beta Bionics iLet Bionic Pancreas automated insulin delivery pump. It is not compatible with any other insulin pump.

• Install the current iLet app on your smartphone. 

• Pair the app with the iLet insulin pump. 

• Once the app and the pump are paired, use the app to update the firmware on the pump. 

• To link the iLet app to the CGM system, click “Switch CGM Sensor” on the iLet CGM menu. 

• On the “Switch CGM Sensor” screen, change the CGM sensor type to “Abbott Libre 3 Plus.”

• Go to the Settings/CGM screen.

• Click “Start Sensor” on the Settings/CGM screen in order to scan the new sensor and link it to the pump.

Keeping a sensor in place:

• To help keep the sensor in place, you can use a bandage, medical-grade tape, Tegaderm I.V., Torbot Skin-Tac, Mastisol Liquid Adhesive, or Skin-Prep Protective Barrier Wipes. Follow the instructions that come with these products.

• Be careful not to dislodge the sensor. Gently put on clothing. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid hitting or brushing objects with the sensor arm. 

• Above all, don’t fidget, poke, or play with the sensor.

• After showering, bathing, or swimming, pat rather than rub the area dry.

• When washing the arm, pat but don’t rub with a washcloth. 

• Exercise or heavy sweating can loosen the sensor.

• Do not try to re-apply a sensor that is coming loose.

How to replace a sensor:

• Replace a sensor after 15 days or the app will indicate that it needs replacement. 

• A sensor also needs replacement if it’s coming loose or if you can see the tip. 

• Do not reuse sensors.

• To remove a sensor, pull up the adhesive edge.

• Carefully peel it from the skin.

• You can use products that help remove the sensor such as baby oil or adhesive dissolvers.

• Carefully remove the tip from the skin.

• Ask the pharmacist how to dispose of the sensor. Disposal laws vary by location.

• Choose a different location to attach the new sensor. 

• Follow the instructions for applying a new sensor.

How to store unused sensors:

• Store unused FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors at room temperature between 39°F and 82°F. 

• The sensors may not work properly if they are exposed to temperatures outside this range.

• If the temperature gets too hot, store the sensors in the refrigerator.

• Protect unused sensors from extreme humidity (higher than 90%).

If a sensor hasn’t been replaced on time, do it as soon as possible. 

Use another method to measure glucose levels until the new sensor is in place.

FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors should not be used by:

• Critically ill patients

• People on dialysis

To avoid sensor damage, it must be removed before any MRI scan, CT scan, or high-frequency electrical heat treatment (diathermy). 

Before first using FreeStyle Libre sensors, tell the prescriber if you:

Are pregnant

On dialysis

Have another implanted medical device.

Tell all healthcare providers who treat you that you are wearing a FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor.

The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor will not provide dependable readings in people who:

• Are dehydrated

• In shock

• Have low blood pressure (hypotension)

• Have dangerously high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemic-hyperosmolar state)

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Dehydration and water loss can give inaccurate readings. 

FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor readings are not always accurate. You must perform a fingerstick blood test when:

• The sensor is first placed and for 12 hours after it has warmed up

• The smartphone app or reader displays a Check Blood Glucose symbol

• The sensor reading has no number

• You experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar

• Sensor readings don’t match the way you feel

• You think the readings may not be correct

Do not share the app with any other person. 

Allergic reactions are a common side effect of wearing FreeStyle sensors. Remove the sensor and contact the prescriber if you experience skin reactions or irritation around or beneath the sensor. 

FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is a medical device that does not have drug interactions.

However, some medications, supplements, and personal care products can make sensor readings inaccurate, particularly:

• High-dose vitamin C (> 500 mg daily) 

• Aspirin

• Some skin care products

Tell all doctors and other healthcare providers treating you that you are wearing a continuous glucose monitoring system before they prescribe any new medications.