Freestyle Libre 3 sensor manufacturing issue

The Waikato Diabetes Service has advised there have been several recent adverse events involving faulty Freestyle Libre 3 sensors due to a manufacturing error. This issue affects Freestyle Libre 3 sensors only; Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7, and Freestyle Libre 2 sensors are not affected.

The manufacturing error can cause impacted Freestyle Libre 3 sensors to display falsely low glucose readings. For people using Ypso pumps with the CamAPS system, this may result in reduced insulin delivery, leading to very high glucose and ketone levels, even though sensor readings appear low.

Although the error has been fixed and most affected sensors have been recalled, some impacted sensors may still be in circulation, particularly those dispensed from pharmacies in October or November last year. Some users may not have received the original national notification issued in late November.

Patients using Freestyle Libre 3 sensors are advised to check all sensors currently at home using Abbott’s online checking process. Any impacted sensors should not be used and can be replaced free of charge through Abbott Customer Service. You can view the Waikato Diabetes Team instructions 'How to check if a sensor is affected' (PDF).

This is also a reminder of the importance of finger-prick blood glucose testing if sensor readings do not match symptoms, and ketone testing when unwell. Practices may be contacted to support patients with replacement prescriptions for sensors, glucose or ketone test strips, or meters as needed.

Practices are encouraged to be aware of this issue and support affected patients to take appropriate action.