Freestyle Libre 2
MiniMed Flex
Summary
The FreeStyle Libre 2 is the thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter and requires scanning using a handheld reader or compatible smartphone with an app. This sensor lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system.
FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).
MARD of 9.3%
The MiniMed Flex is a tubed insulin pump system designed to automate insulin delivery using SmartGuard™ technology and the Simplera Sync sensor. Boluses can be delivered directly through the MiniMed app, while customizable settings help support glucose management throughout the day.
Components
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Controller
Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body. Optional Medtronic Extended™ Infusion set (up to 7-day wear) available.
Reservoir
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir or cartridge that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump. ExtendedTM Reservoir MMT-342, 10PK. 3.0 ml (300 units).
Pump
Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Device Details
Overview
All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.
A tubed insulin pump system that works with the Simplera Sync sensor and SmartGuard™ technology to automatically adjust insulin delivery.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and type 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy or DME. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
After each sensor scan with the mobile app or reader, data is automatically sent to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers via the LibreLinkUp app. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.
Yes
Pump data can be viewed by your healthcare team on the CareLink therapy management software.
Data View Options
Yes
Freestyle Libre 2 app provides glucose readings and alarms, multiple data views, the ability to share glucose data and real-time alarms with LibreLinkUp, and the ability to connect to a clinician's practice through LibreView.
Yes
Data is viewed on the phone app.
Duration and Storage
14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.
2-3 Days. Infusion site and pump reservoir last up to 72 hours and works between 41ºF - 93ºF.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it.
Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is waterproof for up to 8 feet for 105 minutes.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Comfort
Low profile sensor and small adhesive.
Small tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Scanned sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Basal and bolus in 0.05 increments.
Easy to Use
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning are required. Easy self-application.
Pump has a rechargeable battery that takes 30 minutes to charge, and lasts about a week.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only.
Frequent fingersticks are still required.
Privacy
Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet size but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.
Discrete. The MiniMed Flex is small with visible tubing. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discrete when needed.