Faulty FreeStyle Libre 3 and Libre 3 Plus Glucose Monitors: Legal advice and What Users Need to Know

Millions of people living with diabetes rely on continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to help them manage their condition safely. This week, Abbott – the manufacturer of the FreeStyle Libre range – issued an urgent recall of certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors after reports that some devices have provided incorrect low glucose readings. 

Regulators have linked the defect to seven deaths worldwide and more than 700 serious health incidents, prompting concern for those relying on the affected sensors. The recall spans at least 17 countries, including the UK. 

What is the issue with the affected devices? 

The problem relates to sensors produced on a single manufacturing line that may generate falsely low glucose readings. For people managing diabetes, incorrect readings can lead to unsafe treatment decisions, including: 

• Taking too much insulin, potentially causing severe hypoglycaemia 

• Eating excessive carbohydrates unnecessarily 

• Delaying or skipping insulin doses for fear of “going low” 

• Missing dangerously high glucose levels, increasing the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis 

These issues can lead to medical emergencies, long-term complications, or, in rare cases, fatal outcomes. 

Abbott and the FDA have advised anyone using a FreeStyle Libre 3 or Libre 3 Plus sensor to check their model and unique device identifier to confirm whether it is affected. Users should stop using recalled devices immediately and seek a replacement. Abbott has stated it will provide replacements free of charge. 

Model numbers affected 

FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors: 

• 72081-01 

• 72080-01 
  UDI: 00357599818005, 00357599819002 

FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors: 

• 78768-01 

• 78769-01 
  UDI: 00357599844011, 00357599843014 

Users can check their device at www.FreeStyleCheck.com. 

Support for people affected by faulty medical products 

At Fletchers Solicitors, our Medical Product Liability Team specialises in helping individuals who have been harmed by defective medical devices, including faulty implants, surgical equipment and health-monitoring technology such as CGMs. 

We understand how distressing and disorienting it can feel when a product you rely on for your safety and wellbeing does not perform as expected. Our team investigates whether the product was defective, whether harm could have been avoided, and what options may be available for compensation and long-term support. 

If you have experienced unexplained symptoms, incorrect readings, hospitalisation or complications after using a FreeStyle Libre 3 or Libre 3 Plus sensor, you may be entitled to take legal action. 

A message from our expert team 

Sarah Samuels, Partner in our Medical Product Liability Team, said: 

“These recent reports are obviously concerning for the many people who have been using these devices, and I am saddened by the news that some people have died as a result. People who are unsure where to turn can speak to us confidentially, and we can discuss their legal options.” 

How Fletchers Solicitors can help 

We will: 

• Review your experience and medical background sensitively and confidentially 

• Assess whether the faulty sensor may have caused injury or placed you at risk 

• Advise you on your legal rights, including whether you may be eligible to bring a claim 

• Support you throughout the process, ensuring your voice is heard 

Our team has decades of experience in product liability cases involving defective medical technologies and complex healthcare failures. 

If you or a loved one has been affected by the FreeStyle Libre 3 or Libre 3 Plus recall, you do not have to navigate this alone. 

Contact us 

You can speak to our specialist team for free, confidential advice on your options. 
Call us or complete our enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.