Abbott has issued a recall affecting certain FreeStyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors after reports that specific lots may provide inaccurately low glucose readings. For people who rely on CGM data to make insulin or treatment decisions, a falsely low reading can increase the risk of inappropriate dosing and serious hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
If you use the FreeStyle Libre 3 system, the most important step is to identify whether your sensor lot is included in the recall. Lot information is usually printed on the sensor packaging. If you’re unsure where to find it, your pharmacy, supplier, or Abbott support materials can help you locate the correct label.
At a glance
- What: Recall for certain FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor lots due to inaccurate readings
- Main concern: Falsely low glucose readings may lead to incorrect insulin dosing
- Who may be affected: Users with sensors from specific lots (confirm by lot number)
- What to do: Check your sensor lot, follow Abbott instructions, confirm readings with a fingerstick if needed
- Urgency: Seek medical help for severe low blood sugar symptoms or repeated low alerts that don’t match how you feel
Why this recall is “Critical”
CGM systems are widely used to help manage diabetes by providing near real-time glucose trends. If a device reports glucose lower than it truly is, a user may respond by taking carbohydrates unnecessarily or reducing insulin incorrectly. More importantly, some users may take corrective action in a way that disrupts safe management—particularly those who:
- Use rapid-acting insulin and adjust doses frequently
- Have hypoglycemia unawareness (reduced ability to feel lows)
- Rely heavily on CGM alarms during sleep
- Use CGM data in combination with dosing decisions guided by a clinician plan
Because dosing decisions can be time-sensitive and because severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous, recalls involving inaccurate low readings are typically treated as high priority.
What does “falsely low” mean?
“Falsely low” means the sensor may display a glucose value lower than your actual blood glucose. This can happen intermittently (occasional incorrect readings) or in patterns (e.g., repeated low alarms). CGMs measure glucose in interstitial fluid rather than directly in blood, so some lag compared with fingerstick readings is normal. However, a pattern of readings that are significantly lower than expected—especially if you do not have symptoms—may warrant confirmation with a blood glucose meter.
Signs you may be experiencing inaccurate readings
Consider confirming readings with a fingerstick blood glucose meter if you notice:
- Repeated low alerts that don’t match how you feel
- CGM readings that are consistently lower than expected
- Large differences between CGM and fingerstick checks
- Sudden drops shown on CGM without a clear reason (food/insulin/activity)
- Alarms during sleep that occur frequently and resolve quickly without treatment
If you suspect a sensor is inaccurate, avoid making large treatment changes based solely on the CGM value without confirming with a fingerstick, unless you are following a specific care plan that instructs otherwise.
How to check if your sensor lot is affected
Recalls of CGM sensors usually apply to specific lot numbers or manufacturing ranges. To check:
- Look for the lot number on the sensor box/packaging (often near the barcode)
- Compare it with the recall notice instructions for affected lots
- If unclear, contact Abbott support or your pharmacy/supplier for help confirming eligibility
If you have already applied a sensor, keep the packaging if possible—lot details may be needed to confirm recall status.
What users should do now
If you may have an affected sensor lot, these steps can help you manage risk:
- Check the lot number: Confirm whether your sensor is included in the recall.
- Confirm unusual lows: Use a fingerstick meter if readings seem inconsistent with symptoms.
- Follow your care plan: If you have diabetes management instructions, continue following clinician guidance.
- Contact your provider if needed: Especially if you’re experiencing frequent lows or treatment confusion.
- Replace affected sensors: If instructed by the recall notice, stop using the affected sensor and follow replacement steps.
When to seek urgent help
Severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous. Seek emergency assistance if you or someone around you experiences:
- Loss of consciousness or seizure
- Severe confusion or inability to swallow safely
- Persistent symptoms of low blood sugar that do not improve with treatment
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop using my CGM immediately?
Only stop using a sensor if it is confirmed to be in the recalled lot range or if your clinician advises it. If you suspect inaccuracy, confirm readings with fingerstick checks and contact your care team.
Can I rely on trend arrows if readings are off?
If a sensor is giving inaccurate lows, trend information may also be unreliable. When in doubt, confirm with a fingerstick and follow your care plan.
Will replacement be provided?
Recall remedies often include replacement sensors or support through your supplier. Follow the instructions provided in the recall notice or contact Abbott support for next steps.