Researchers who carried out an independent study on a new type of glucose monitor, which is now available on prescription in the UK, have hailed it as a major step in the fight against diabetes.
The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitor attaches to the upper arm and can measure blood sugar for up to 14 days. When the sensor is applied, a thin, flexible and sterile fibre is inserted just under the skin and held in place with a small adhesive pad. The small disc is designed to replace the 4-10 finger pricks Type 1 diabetes patients need to self-administer daily.
Up to eight hours of glucose data can be stored locally on the waterproof sensor, with a specialised reader used to scan the information in just one second. This data then plugs into a software system that can generate detailed reports on glucose levels, helping users and medical professionals spot patterns of spikes and lows.
“Despite major progress in the care of people living with Type 1 diabetes, many fail to achieve their target blood sugar level – and that risks major complications,” said Dr Lalantha Leelarathna, a researcher from Manchester University and a consultant diabetologist at Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.
“Our review concludes that the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitor works well for both adults and children. The studies show it is accurate, comfortable and easy to use. It is associated with a reduction in low blood sugar levels, improvements in glycated haemoglobin levels and adverse events are low.
“Our assessment of the available evidence shows that for most patients, it is a game changer.”
The monitor, which was developed by healthcare company Abbot, has been available via the NHS since November 2017. Randomised trials carried out by the research team found FreeStyle Libre use was associated with a reduction in hypoglycaemia, and also found that its accuracy was comparable to currently available real-time continuous glucose monitors. But while the benefits of the device seem clear, getting it into the hands of patients has not been straightforward.
“The challenge in the UK is to now ensure that it reaches people living with diabetes,” said Dr Emma Wilmot from Derby Teaching Hospitals.
“We are delighted that this device became available on the NHS drug tariff in November 2017. However, it is clear from the Diabetes UK map of access that this does not necessarily mean that it will make it into the hands of those who might benefit. The development of a postcode lottery for access would further add to the variation in diabetes care across the country and may adversely impact on outcomes.”
I used one of these for a health study last year. The implant takes a bit of getting used to but the system works well. Wouldn’t mind one now since I have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. They need to be cheap though.
Dear Shaun. Thank you for your comment. What difficulties did you experience with the sensor? What would a reasonable price be?
I have type 2 diabetes having bloods all the time but can’t get a monitor from my gp and I’m on benefits any advice
I was diagnosed as type 1 diabetic at the age of six in 1965. I have just had a trial pad fitted and it really is a game changer. Unfortunately, mid-essex CCG have not yet put it on their list of approved drugs to be prescribed so I will either need to continue finger pricking or pay £50 every 14 days for a new sensor (the NHS pay £35 per sensor and my data is showing that the use will be cost neutral to the NHS while improving my long term health).
Worldgn has a non invasive glucose monitor that was demonstrated at CES Las Vegas this year.
The Smart Phone App is in its final Stages by HEKA.
Worldgn is in 195 Countries including UK. Contact me . r.parsons@cogeco.net
Hi Robert,
what was the name of the device please…sounds interesting
As a type 1 diabetic, I’ve been using these for over a year now, self funding. There is a delay from actual blood glucose readings to the interstitial reading via the sensor. However accuracy is good. The major benefit is blood glucose readings are snapshots in time, whereas the sensor captures data constantly. This enables patterns to be established easier, therefore corrective action via insulin in my case. Note the sensors don’t work on apple iphones earlier than version 7.
Dear Stuart. The Freestyle Libre device looks interesting. However, does it have some drawbacks compared to the traditional blood glucose monitoring systems?
Whether intrusive tech or non-intrusive, monitors like these will certainly become ubiquitous in the near future. I certainly wish we all could find a way to reverse the disease, but that is not on the horizon as yet. There were some initial hopes for gene therapies, but I suspect those are running into obstacles, whatever they may be. Americans (I am one), should figure out they need to keep excess weight off early in life, and avoid fructose at all costs – this is a proven liver toxin, really. We all had the totally wrong idea getting into the use of invert sugar (high in fructose).
Does the device alarm if low/high levels are measured?
no. there is no alarm system. You only see data when you place the handheld device near the sensor.
I have been self-funding this device for over a year and found it extremely beneficial in keeping my diabetes type one of some sixty years under control. It doesn’ t have an alarm, but scanning of the sensor is so simple even through several layers of clothing to show level, lowering or rising interstitial glucose levels with a numerical value and appropriate arrow. Graphs can be viewed on screen or downloaded to a computer to enable a record to be kept. David.
No, it does not.
Device doesn’t alarm when glucose is dropping. However it’s still very helpful kit. Being on Libre just for a couple of weeks, I’ve learned about my diabetes much more than 7 years on test strips.
At the moment it has to be self funded. Despite widely announced campaign that is available on NHS, local CCG’s are rejecting funding Libre sensors.
I have been a type 1 for 37 years and using the Libre for around 9 months now. For me its a life changer HBA1c down from 82 to 57 in 3 months, the best result i have had in years!!! Unfortunately the CCG in Dorset didn’t agree that it should be available on prescription. I fund myself at £100 month.
I’m intrigued by the name ‘FreeStyle’ especially reinforced by ‘Libre’ suggests links to an open source philosophy. Is that the case?
This article describes a machine which can continuously monitor blood glucose levels. A friend of mine, who is type 1 diabetic, wears a machine which automatically injects insulin – slowly. We cannot be too far away from attaching these two types together to make an artificial pancreas…
I suppose there is an additional overall philosophy here as well. That patients take control of their own testing and treatment. Since the start of the NHS (I recall receiving spectacles in 1948 when I was first diagnosed with poor eyesight) the population have become used to visiting a professional to describe symptoms and be diagnosed. The load(s) on the NHS facilities has increased almost exponentially since then, as its budget(s) and facilities have grown and grown: and yet the complaints and litigation against it for weakness seem to increase as well. I wonder who benefits the most?
Is this the start of a step-change in attitude? let us all take charge of our own health.
That’s fine if you can afford it!
My wife has been type 1 for almost 42 years now. We purchased this device a couple of years ago and it has made a huge difference to her life. Last November when it was announced that the sensors would be available on prescription, she met with her ‘health care professional’ and asked if she would be eligible – we are still waiting for the answer. Just because the ‘press’ say this system is available on the NHS does not mean it is available to all diabetics – it is still a post-code lottery! The fact the better control of blood glucose will SAVE the NHS money in the long term does not seem to be recognised by those deciding who should/should not get the sensors provided by the NHS. motto: don’t believe all you read in the press or see on TV News!
As a type 2 diabetic, I’ll be asking my GP about this later in the week.
Reply to Stuart: good luck with that. It did cross my mind that possibly the fact that Theresa May uses this system there might be a better chance of all the local health authorities making a ‘show’ of approving this system – from the many comments regarding the lack of approval from various CCG’s it seems this is not the case.
I’ve had Type 1 for nearly 60 years, and I would totally agree that the flash system provides more suitable responses for treatment by consultants. Mine tends to see my CGM records, change one insulin dose, and hopes that everything will be hunky-dorey for the next 6 months, which doesn’t usually happen. Being a pensioner I would like to have a flash monitor, but without help I just don’t know if I could afford it.
Please can someone explain why this is only being mentioned for type 1 diabetes? Aren’t the dangers of high and low sugar levels also dangerous in type 2 patients? Thank you.
New advances in Diabetic care, but only available to the diabetics of the UK if you have a load of cash or if you’re Teresa May! Once again the UK government dictating our needs, and Jeremy Hunt holding the purse strings! This should be widely available to every diabetic in the UK not just if you’re a Prime minister
I am type 1 diabetes i have been diagnosed since 2016 I have been everywhere to get the flash monitor and there saying I can’t have it any suggestions
I am a pensioner with Type 2. I use this meter. I pay for it myself. It has revolutionized my understanding and control of my diet and my blood glucose. I feel much better.
Can i ask where you got it from
We have been told that my husband should be eligible for a blood sugar monitor. When we ask the surgery they say they have not heard anything. Is it still a lottery postcode selection as we keep hearing that it will be available on the NHS.
Are these just for type 1 diabetes as I’m high level type 2
I am disappointed that I don’t qualify for this .I have been type 1 for 46 years and do have hypos and it would be helpful for me especially when on holidays and days out .But it seems that if you try to keep good control then it isn’t available.I think that is really discriminatory.
Is there such a monitor, better still droplet via hypo. test, for common SALT and similar in the blood? Time wasted on these going to lab., not so long ago. Operation then unsuccessful/too late.
How much is this equipment to buy
Agree this is a game changer, it is picking up spikes in my glucose levels that i have been unaware of previously. I’m going to change insulins to tackle these to gain greater control and lower HBA1c.
My only gripe is that the sensor really isn’t robust enough. I have a manual job and the first couple of sensors slipped and ‘disconnected’. I’m now using Rocktape to hold in position and still any slight knock is enough to dislodge the filament. I’m hoping this is a step towards a proper implant beneath the skin – surely can’t be far away!
Doing a bit of research I have identified the following.
A missed nhs appointment cost between £30-100.
If medicated for diabetes on the NHS the cost is their cost contribution plus repeat appointments
Providing a continuous monitor for 1-2 months to a T2 who is using diet and fitness to manage their diabetes, by identifying triggers and what works etc, could save the NHS per T2 thousands of pounds over a year.
This would be due to overall savings in the limited need for doctors appointments, medication and other related health issues.
This could effectively save the NHS hundreds of thousands a year. More if they can get more T2 to be more proactive I their own health rather than relying on drugs etc. (I work with 4 other T2’s who refuse to alter any foods they eat or do any exercise to help. 3 Of them have quoted ‘why should I when I can just take a pill!’ I know lots are not like this including myself. However the push to medicate first by GP’s rather than the option I have mentioned should be high on their agenda for the reasons mentioned above.
People are hoping this will lead to an artificial pancreas but as one of the first diabetics to be put on one in a trial at Southampton Hospital in the early 1970’s, I don’t see it happening with any speed. Drugs companies make too much money to consider a cure for diabetes, the best we can do is keep ourselves as fit and well as possible.