Flash Glucose Monitoring: Where To Buy And Why

Flash glucose monitoring is a way to measure your glucose levels without having to prick your fingers. The Freestyle Libre 2 is the only flash glucose monitor available to buy in the UK at the moment. It costs around £50 for a sensor that lasts up to 14 days. You can buy it from Amazon or Chemist2Customer. If you get it on the NHS, you can also get the other things you need like sensors and replacement parts.

Online

You can buy flash glucose monitoring systems online from the Freestyle Libre website. The system is available in various countries, including the US, UK, India, and Australia. The Freestyle Libre 2 system is available to buy online in the UK. The Freestyle Libre 3 system is not yet available to buy, but it is offered on the NHS.

The Freestyle Libre system is also available to buy online from third-party websites such as Flipkart.

When buying online, you can choose to purchase the reader, which is a one-time purchase, and the sensors, which need to be replaced every 10-14 days. You can also download the Freestyle LibreLink app for your smartphone, which is required to use your phone to scan the sensor and see the readings.

Amazon

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems

• Abbott Freestyle Libre 2: This CGM system is recommended by endocrinologists and medical professionals for its ease of use and ability to provide deeper insights into glucose levels. It consists of a sensor worn on the arm and a reader device that provides constant glucose readings. The Freestyle Libre 3, an upgraded version with direct smartphone connectivity, is also available.
• Dexcom G6: The Dexcom G6 is a popular CGM option that provides real-time glucose readings without the need for manual scanning. It connects to a dedicated receiver, smartphone, or Apple Watch. The system offers customizable alerts for high and low blood sugar levels and can be integrated with an insulin pump for a closed-loop system.
• Eversense CGM System: The Eversense CGM System offers an exceptionally long sensor life of up to 180 days. It requires insertion by a healthcare professional and provides alerts for high and low blood sugar levels. The system connects to a smartphone app for wireless readings and data sharing.
• The Guardian Connect System: This CGM system provides current glucose readings and historical data trends via a connected app. It stands out for its "predictive" alerts, which can anticipate and notify you of potential high or low blood sugar events before they occur. The system also includes the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app, which helps optimize diet, exercise, and insulin regimens.

Blood Glucose Monitoring Kits

• Metene TD-4116 Blood Glucose Monitor Kit: This kit features a large display and does not require coding. It comes with 100 glucometer strips, 100 lancets, a lancing device, and a control solution.
• AUVON Blood Glucose Monitor Kit: Available in both 50-count and 100-count test strip options, this kit provides high-accuracy blood sugar testing with no coding required. It includes a lancing device and a portable case for travel.
• IHealth Gluco+ Wireless Smart Blood Glucose Monitor Kit: This kit connects to a free app for wireless glucose monitoring and includes 100 glucometer strips, 100 lancets, a lancing device, and a portable case.
• CareSens N Blood Glucose Monitor Kit: This kit includes 100 blood sugar test strips, 100 lancets, a blood glucose meter, a lancing device, a control solution, and a travel case. It offers Bluetooth connectivity and is highly rated for its accuracy and ease of use.
• Accu-Chek Guide Me Glucose Monitor Kit: The Accu-Chek Guide Me kit includes a Softclix lancing device, 10 Softclix lancets, and a Guide Me meter. It is known for its ease of use and accuracy in blood glucose testing.

In-store: pharmacy

If you're looking to buy a flash glucose monitoring system from a pharmacy, you can try purchasing the FreeStyle Libre 2 System from a local pharmacy. The FreeStyle Libre 2 is a small wearable device that you can scan with a reader or your mobile phone to check your glucose levels.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 System comes with a sensor that is about the size of a £2 coin, which you can attach to your upper arm and keep on for up to 14 days. The sensor has a small, flexible filament that sits under your skin to measure your glucose levels. When you want to check your glucose levels, simply scan the sensor with the handset or reader that comes with it to get a reading.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 is available at various pharmacies and you can also check with your local pharmacy to see if they have it in stock. The cost of the sensors is typically around £50 each, and they can last for up to 14 days.

In addition to purchasing the sensors, you will also need either the FreeStyle Libre Reader or the FreeStyle LibreLink app on your smartphone to use the sensor and view your glucose readings. The reader is a small, separate device that you can purchase for around £50, while the LibreLink app can be downloaded for free on compatible smartphones.

By using the FreeStyle Libre 2 System, you can reduce the number of finger-prick glucose tests you need to perform and easily monitor your glucose levels throughout the day. The system provides real-time glucose readings, notifications, and insights to help you manage your diabetes with ease and confidence.

Direct from the manufacturer

If you are looking to buy a flash glucose monitoring system directly from the manufacturer, Abbott manufactures the FreeStyle Libre 2 System, which is suitable for those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The FreeStyle Libre 2 Starter Pack includes everything you need to get started with your first month of real-time glucose monitoring.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 System is a small wearable device that you scan with a reader to check your glucose levels. The sensor is about the size of a £2 coin and can be worn on the upper arm for up to 14 days. It is painless to apply and easy to use, providing real-time glucose readings every minute for up to 15 days of continuous glucose monitoring.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 System is discreet and convenient, allowing you to check your glucose levels anytime, anywhere, with a quick glance at your smartphone. You can also set up alarms to notify you of high or low glucose levels. The system is water-resistant and can be worn while bathing, showering, swimming, and exercising.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor is available for purchase directly from the manufacturer, Abbott, through their website. Online and phone support are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 System is a great option for those seeking an easy and confident way to manage their diabetes.

From your healthcare team

Your healthcare team should be your first port of call when considering buying a flash glucose monitor. They can advise you on whether a flash glucose monitor or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) would be the best option for you.

If you live in England, Wales, or Scotland, your healthcare team will be able to tell you if you qualify for an NHS-provided flash glucose monitor or CGM. People with type 1 diabetes should be offered a CGM or flash glucose monitor, and some people with type 2 diabetes may also be offered one. If you live in Northern Ireland, you will need to check with your healthcare team.

If you don't qualify for an NHS-provided monitor, your healthcare team can still advise you on whether a self-funded device would be suitable for you. They can also direct you to where you can buy a reader from, as these can be available directly from the manufacturer (Abbott), from a pharmacy, or online.

Your healthcare team can also help you set up your CGM or flash glucose monitor if you get it for free on the NHS. They will show you how to use it, and sometimes manufacturers will also help with the setup. Abbott, the supplier of the Freestyle Libre, provides free online learning for people with diabetes using the technology to help them get the most from it. Your healthcare team can refer you to a diabetes education course if you use flash (Freestyle Libre) or CGM.

You can also connect to your healthcare team through the cloud-based management solution LibreView. This allows you to stay connected and share your glucose data with them.

Frequently asked questions