Monitoring Blood Sugar Without the Finger-Stick

A newly approved device can monitor blood sugar without requiring a blood sample.

That means no more finger-stick to check your blood sugar levels.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System for use by people with diabetes. The approval came after the device appeared safe and accurate in a clinical study of adults with diabetes.

Instead of relying on a fingertip blood sample like traditional blood glucose monitors do, this newly approved device uses a small sensor wire that is inserted beneath the skin to continuously monitor blood sugar levels. Adults can wear the device for as long as 10 days at a time.

Although this new device constantly monitors blood glucose, it doesn't automatically warn users when blood sugar is too low or too high. Users have to initiate interactions with the device.

Aside from the potential for inaccurate blood sugar readings, this device may pose a risk of skin irritation in the area where the sensor is inserted, according to the FDA.

Patients with diabetes produce little or no insulin or do not process insulin properly. This condition can lead to high blood sugar. Untreated diabetes can lead to kidney and heart disease, among other health problems.

Talk to your doctor about how best to manage your diabetes.

Abbott Diabetes Care manufactures the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System.