FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor – 1 Kit

What Is the FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor and How Can It Help You?

Managing diabetes day to day can feel relentless — the constant monitoring, the finger pricks, the worry about missing a dangerous dip or spike. The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor from Abbott is designed to take much of that burden away. Rather than relying solely on traditional blood glucose testing, this wearable sensor continuously tracks your glucose levels through a small filament placed just under the skin, giving you real-time data at a glance. If you live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, that kind of visibility can genuinely change how you manage your condition. You can explore our full range of diabetes monitoring products at Cured Pharmacy.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor is the latest iteration in Abbott's Libre range. Each kit contains one sensor that lasts up to 15 days — one day longer than the previous generation. It is compatible with the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader and the LibreLink smartphone app, making it straightforward to integrate into your daily routine. At £50.99 per kit, it offers a cost-effective way to maintain consistent glucose oversight between NHS prescriptions or as a self-funded option.

How Does the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor Work?

The technology behind flash glucose monitoring is elegant in its simplicity. A tiny, flexible filament — thinner than a human hair — sits just beneath the surface of your skin, measuring glucose in the interstitial fluid (the fluid surrounding your cells) rather than directly in your blood. Readings are taken automatically every minute and stored on the sensor.

• You apply the sensor to the back of your upper arm using the included applicator — the process takes seconds and is largely painless.
• Scan the sensor with a compatible reader or smartphone to receive your current glucose level, a directional trend arrow showing whether glucose is rising, falling, or stable, and up to 8 hours of historical data.
• Optional real-time alarms can alert you to high or low glucose levels, even without scanning — a key safety feature for people at risk of hypoglycaemia.
• The sensor is water-resistant (IP27 rated), so you can wear it while showering or swimming without interruption.

It is worth noting that interstitial glucose readings can lag behind blood glucose by approximately 5–10 minutes, particularly during rapid changes. This is why clinical guidance recommends confirming with a finger-prick test if your symptoms do not match what the sensor shows.

Who Is the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor Suitable For?

This sensor is intended for adults and children aged 4 years and over who require glucose monitoring as part of their diabetes management. It is particularly well suited to people who find frequent finger-prick testing difficult, painful, or disruptive to daily life.

• Adults and children (4+) with type 1 diabetes requiring intensive glucose monitoring.
• People with type 2 diabetes on insulin therapy who need regular glucose checks.
• Individuals who experience hypoglycaemia unawareness and benefit from continuous trend data and alarms.
• Those who want to reduce the frequency of routine finger-prick testing without losing glucose oversight.

It is not suitable for use during MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, or diathermy treatment. People with certain implanted electronic devices — such as pacemakers — should consult their clinician before use.

How Does the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Compare to Other CGM Options?

How Should You Store the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

Proper storage is important to ensure the sensor performs accurately. Keep unopened sensors below 30°C, away from direct sunlight, and do not freeze them. Once applied to the skin, the sensor operates within a temperature range of 10°C to 45°C. If you are travelling to a hot climate, take care to store unused sensors in a cool bag — not directly against an ice pack, as freezing will damage the biosensor. You can also browse our electrical health and diagnostic range for complementary monitoring devices.

Check the expiry date printed on the packaging before applying each sensor. Using an expired sensor may result in inaccurate readings. If the sensor packaging is damaged or the seal is broken, do not use it.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor and What Is It Used For?

The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor is a wearable flash glucose monitoring device manufactured by Abbott. It is used to measure glucose levels in people with diabetes — primarily those with type 1 diabetes, and people with type 2 diabetes who use insulin. Rather than requiring multiple daily finger-prick blood tests, the sensor continuously records interstitial glucose data and displays it on demand when scanned with a compatible reader or smartphone app.

The NHS recognises flash glucose monitoring as a clinically appropriate alternative to routine self-monitoring of blood glucose for eligible patients. The sensor is worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 15 days before being replaced. It provides trend arrows, historical glucose graphs, and optional real-time alarms — all of which help you and your diabetes care team make more informed treatment decisions.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

Before applying this sensor, it is important to be aware of the following contraindications and precautions:

• Do not use during MRI, CT, X-ray, or diathermy procedures — remove the sensor beforehand.
• Not recommended for people with implanted electronic devices (e.g. pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators) without prior medical advice.
• Not intended for use in critically ill patients or those in intensive care settings.
• Children under 4 years of age should not use this sensor.
• If you have a known allergy to medical-grade adhesives, consult your GP before use.
• Do not use if the sensor packaging is damaged or the expiry date has passed.
• Pregnant women should discuss use with their diabetes care team, as accuracy data in pregnancy is limited.

Regarding drug interactions, the following substances are known to potentially affect sensor accuracy:

• High-dose paracetamol (acetaminophen) — doses above 1g may cause falsely elevated glucose readings.
• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) supplements at high doses may interfere with readings in some older sensor generations; consult the current Abbott product documentation for the Libre 2 Plus.

How Should You Use the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

Applying the sensor correctly is straightforward, but following each step carefully will help ensure accurate readings and good adhesion throughout the 15-day wear period.

1. Wash and dry the application site (back of upper arm) thoroughly.
2. Clean the area with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry completely — at least 30 seconds.
3. Remove the sensor from its packaging and peel off the protective seal.
4. Place the sensor applicator firmly against the cleaned skin and press down until you hear a click.
5. Remove the applicator — the sensor will remain attached to your skin.
6. Wait 60 minutes before taking your first reading (warm-up period).
7. Scan the sensor with your FreeStyle Libre 2 reader or the LibreLink app to activate it and begin receiving readings.

If you are new to flash glucose monitoring, your diabetes nurse or GP can provide additional guidance. You may also find it helpful to keep a record of your readings alongside any dietary or activity notes — many people find this helps them spot patterns in their glucose levels over time.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

As with any wearable medical device, some people experience reactions at the application site. Most are mild and resolve once the sensor is removed. Serious reactions are uncommon but should be reported to a healthcare professional promptly.

Common side effects:

• Redness at the sensor application site
• Itching or mild irritation under the adhesive
• Minor bruising or discomfort at insertion point
• Skin indentation after sensor removal (usually temporary)

Less common side effects:

• Allergic contact dermatitis (rash, blistering, or swelling at the site)
• Sensor detachment due to excessive sweating or skin oiliness
• Inaccurate readings during periods of rapid glucose change
• Sensor failure before the 15-day period ends (Abbott offers a replacement programme in such cases)

If you develop a severe skin reaction, remove the sensor and contact your GP or pharmacist. Do not reapply a new sensor to the same area until the skin has fully healed. For general skin health support, you can browse our skin care range.

How Should You Store the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?

• Store unopened sensors at temperatures between 4°C and 25°C (some sources indicate up to 30°C — refer to the current product packaging).
• Do not freeze sensors — freezing permanently damages the biosensor filament.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• Do not store in a bathroom or other high-humidity environment.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Once applied to the skin, the sensor operates between 10°C and 45°C.
• Dispose of used sensors in accordance with your local clinical waste guidelines — do not place in household recycling.

If you are managing multiple aspects of your health alongside diabetes, our vitamins and supplements collection includes products that may support general wellbeing as part of a balanced lifestyle.