Route of Administration for FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Sensor
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor should be ordered as a "subcutaneous" route of administration since it is designed for insertion under the skin where it measures interstitial glucose levels. 1
Understanding Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
- Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems like the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid as a basis for improving metabolic control 1
- The glucose sensors of most CGM systems, including the FreeStyle Libre series, are inserted subcutaneously and worn externally by the user 1
- The FreeStyle Libre is a factory-calibrated sensor that uses wired glucose oxidase-based enzyme technology with a sensing membrane 1
Specific Information About FreeStyle Libre Sensors
- The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus features an improved sensor design with a 15-day wear period and reduced vitamin C interference 2
- The sensor is inserted subcutaneously where it continuously measures interstitial glucose levels, though data is only transmitted when the sensor is scanned with a reading device 1
- Unlike some other CGM systems that require fingerstick blood glucose calibrations, the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is factory calibrated and does not require additional calibration 1
Clinical Considerations
- The subcutaneous placement is essential for proper function as the sensor is specifically designed to measure glucose in the interstitial fluid beneath the skin 1
- Studies have shown good correlation between interstitial glucose measurements from FreeStyle Libre sensors and blood glucose measurements, with mean absolute relative differences (MARD) of approximately 8.1-8.2% in recent models 2
- The sensor is typically applied to areas with adequate subcutaneous tissue, such as the back of the upper arm for human patients 3, 4
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Incorrectly listing the route of administration could lead to confusion in processing the order or insurance claims 1
- Failure to specify "subcutaneous" might result in delays in obtaining the device for patients who need continuous glucose monitoring 1
- The sensor must be properly inserted subcutaneously to function correctly - improper placement can affect accuracy and sensor longevity 3, 4