Abbott (NYSE:ABT) said today that its FreeStyle Libre glucose monitoring system won Health Canada approval for adults with diabetes.
The company’s disposable glucose monitoring device is worn on the back of the upper arm and senses glucose using a small filament that is placed under the skin. Every scan includes a real-time glucose reading, as well as an 8-hour snapshot of blood sugar data.
The reader contains up to 90 days of information, so users can study their glucose levels over time.
Abbott said it’s system eliminates the need for routine finger sticks, which diabetic patients traditionally use to monitor their glucose levels.
“The 1st word that came to mind when I learned about FreeStyle Libre was ‘freedom’,” Maria Miclea, who has Type I diabetes, said in a press release. “Freedom from the pain of routine testing and from social awkwardness. Also, peace of mind, knowing that I can quickly and easily scan my glucose levels – whenever and wherever I want – to help better manage my diabetes.”
The company also said that its FreeStyle Libre system will be covered by 2 major Canadian insurers.
“At Abbott, our goal is to help people achieve their best health,” Badia Boudaiffa, GM of Abbott’s Canadian Diabetes Care business, said. “Bringing FreeStyle Libre to the three million people living with diabetes across Canada is a major milestone. This technology not only transforms how people have been testing their glucose levels for decades, it also may support improved overall diabetes management.”
