Great news for people living with type 1 diabetes: the FreeStyle Libre 3, Abbott’s latest continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system, approved by Health Canada in 2023, is finally available in Canada as of late June 2025. This device can be used from the age of 2 and is also approved for use during pregnancy.
Here’s a quick look at the key improvements brought by this new generation of CGM.
What’s new?
- Automatic data transmission
No more manual scanning! The sensor now sends glucose readings directly to the mobile app every minute.
- Smaller and more discreet sensor
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor is 60% smaller than the Libre 2. Its size is comparable to two stacked nickels, making it more comfortable to wear and reducing plastic waste.
- Real-time alerts
Just like with the Libre 2, users can receive real-time alerts for high, low, or rapidly changing glucose levels, based on personalized thresholds.
- 15-day wear with no calibration
The sensor is factory-calibrated, meaning no fingerstick is required to ensure accuracy. It is designed for continuous wear over a 15-day period.
What about cost and coverage?
Although the FreeStyle Libre 3 is now available in Canada, it is not yet covered by most public insurance plans (such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan, or British Columbia’s PharmaCare). However, more and more private insurers are beginning to provide partial or full coverage.
Want to stay informed about reimbursement options or receive personalized updates? You can sign up with your email here.
Learn more
To better understand the differences between the continuous glucose monitors available in Canada, we’ve updated our comparison table. Check it out here.
To learn more about research on type 1 diabetes, visit: www.type1better.com
