Abbott (NYSE:ABT) said today that its next-generation FreeStyle Libre system won CE Mark clearance in the European Union.
The glucose monitor, which eliminates the need for finger sticks, features optional alarms that users can customize, according to Abbott.
“The FreeStyle Libre 2 system is designed to further empower people with diabetes by providing a choice about how they want to use alarms—which can be a valuable feature for a specific group of people managing their diabetes,” Jared Watkin, SVP of Abbott’s diabetes unit, said in prepared remarks. “We′re committed to developing the latest health technology to help people lead fuller lives. Our goal is to make FreeStyle Libre widely accessible, which includes offering additional features at no additional cost to our customers.”
The FreeStyle Libre 2 system includes alarms to alert the user when it detects low and high glucose and an alarm to notify the user when the sensor can’t communicate with the reader. Users can decide if they want to receive alarms and if they want to be alerted via sound or vibration. Consistent with Abbott’s first-gen FreeStyle Libre monitor, users can also track glucose trends and patterns and view an eight-hour glucose history.
“Enabling patients to have optional alarms with the FreeStyle Libre 2 system provides them with even more freedom in managing their condition,” Dr. Jens Kröger, specialist at the Center of Diabetology Bergedorf, added. “For some patients who are unaware of the hypoglycemia episodes they may be experiencing – especially during sleep – having alarms can be important. Or, for the parents of children with diabetes, alarms can provide peace of mind.”
Abbott noted that the FreeStyle Libre 2 device will be available on a rolling basis throughout Europe in the coming weeks. The updated system’s price will be the same as the first-gen FreeStyle Libre, the medtech company reported.
