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How much is a Freestyle Libre 2 Sensor without insurance?

Brand-name FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors cost $235 without insurance. Learn how to get FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor at a lower price, or find cheaper alternatives.
By | May 28, 2024
FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor: how much is FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor without insurance

Key takeaways

  • FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor is a product that continuously monitors your blood glucose levels. It’s applied to the back of your upper arm and provides real-time glucose readings to a FreeStyle Libre 2 reader or smartphone app. 

  • The average cash price for two FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors without insurance is $235.  Because the sensor needs replacement every 14 days, this amounts to more than $1,400 for six months of use. 

  • Ways to lower the cost of FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors include obtaining a SingleCare prescription discount card, comparing prices at different pharmacies, and discussing other monitoring systems with your healthcare provider. 

In this article:

FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor is a product that continuously monitors your blood glucose (sugar) levels. It’s applied to the back of the upper arm for up to 14 days and has a tiny filament that inserts into the skin to provide real-time glucose readings. This minimizes the need for fingersticks. The sensor is indicated for use in adults and children ages 4 years and older with diabetes and is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider. Without insurance, the average retail price for two FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors is $235. But there are several ways to make FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors more affordable. 

What is the generic for FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor?

FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor is only available as a brand-name product in the United States. There is no generic version of the sensor. Because this product was approved fairly recently in 2020, it will be quite some time before a generic version is available. 

Is FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor covered by insurance?

Most commercial insurance plans cover FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor, but it depends on the individual plan. According to Abbott Diabetes Care, the manufacturer of the device, most people with private or commercial insurance pay no more than $75 per month for their FreeStyle Libre sensors. 

Medicare plans may cover FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors if certain eligibility criteria are met. These criteria include: 

  • You have been diagnosed with diabetes. 
  • Your doctor has determined that you or your caregivers have had adequate training on how to use the device and has written a prescription. 
  • The device is being prescribed as indicated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 
  • You meet at least one of the following in regards to your diabetes treatment:
    • You are being treated with insulin. 
    • You have a history of problematic hypoglycemia with documentation of specific hypoglycemic events. 
  • You visited with your healthcare provider six months before using the device regarding your diabetes management, and they determined that you met all eligibility criteria.

Under Medicare, this device is considered durable medical equipment (DME), and coverage typically occurs under Medicare Part B (outpatient medical insurance) rather than Medicare Part D (prescription drug insurance). 

How much does a FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor cost without insurance?

Without insurance, the cost of FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor varies depending on the pharmacy. On average, the cash price for two sensors is $235. Because the sensor needs replacement every 14 days, this amounts to more than $1,400 for six months of use. 

Commercial insurance plans can bring this cost down significantly. Medicare coverage is also available if certain criteria are met. 

Although there are no generic versions of the FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor, there are other continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors available. These include Eversense E3 and various Dexcom and Guardian systems. While all devices are effective options for glucose monitoring, Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre are some of the most popular systems. 
Drug name Price without insurance of brand-name drug  SingleCare price Savings options
FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor $235 per 2 sensors $139 per 2 sensors of brand-name FreeStyle Libre 2 See latest prices
Dexcom G6 Sensor $550 per 3 sensors $320 per 3 sensors of brand-name Dexcom G6  See latest prices
Dexcom G7 Sensor $515 per 3 sensors $390 per 3 sensors of brand-name Dexcom G7  See latest prices
Guardian 4 Glucose Sensor $2,360 per 15 sensors  $1810 per 15 sensors of brand-name Guardian 4 See latest prices

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available. Click the link under “Savings options” to see the latest drug prices.

How to get FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor without insurance

CGMs may be a convenient option for individuals monitoring their blood sugar at home. They eliminate the need for daily finger pricks and provide real-time, continuous glucose data. They also send notifications and real-time glucose alarms if your blood sugars go out of range. However, CGMs, including the FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensor, tend to be more expensive than traditional blood glucose monitors. Fortunately, there are ways you can lower the price of FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors if you don’t have insurance. Here are three ways to save money on FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors:

1. Use a SingleCare prescription discount card

A SingleCare discount card can lower the retail price of two FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors from $235 to $139. A discount coupon is valid at over 35,000 pharmacies nationwide.

2. Compare pharmacy prices

The price of FreeStyle Libre 2 Sensors can vary depending on the pharmacy. To find the lowest price, shop around and compare the prices to find the most affordable option. You can find participating pharmacies by searching the medication name on www.singlecare.com.

3. Discuss other monitoring systems with your healthcare provider

While CGMs are convenient for blood sugar monitoring, they can be pricey. Traditional blood glucose monitoring systems may cost less. Ask a healthcare professional about all of your options and which would be best for you.