Does The FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM Work With MiniMed Insulin Pumps?

Quick Answer

No, the Freestyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is not currently compatible with Medtronic MiniMed insulin pumps. MiniMed insulin pumps are only compatible with the Guardian continuous glucose monitoring system, which is also made by Medtronic.

Detailed Answer

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have revolutionized the way people with diabetes monitor their blood glucose levels.

Unlike traditional glucose meters, CGMs continuously measure glucose levels in real time and provide users with data on trends and patterns. They reduce the need for frequent fingersticks, allow for more precise insulin dosing, and enable better management of blood glucose levels.

There are a number of different CGM products on the market, including:

• Dexcom (e.g. G5, G6, G7)
• Freestyle Libre (e.g., Libre 2, Libre 3)
• Guardian

Another type of product that has changed how diabetics care for themselves is the insulin pump. Once very cumbersome and difficult to manage, they are now smaller and easier to use than ever.

These pumps have significantly improved diabetes care by providing users with greater flexibility, precision, and control over their insulin dosing.

When a CGM is combined with an insulin pump, one of the main benefits is that it allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment of insulin dosing. 

Problems With Compatability

Unfortunately, one of the main issues today with all the new diabetic products is compatibility. What works with what?

Compatibility issues between continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, insulin pumps, and test strips can make diabetes management more challenging. It can often be difficult for people with diabetes to navigate the various devices and technologies and determine which ones are compatible with each other.

Getting into your question, the FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM system is not compatible with MiniMed insulin pumps. The only CGM that works with MiniMed pumps is the Guardian system. So this means that the Dexcom system also is not compatible with MiniMed pumps.

In regard to FreeStyle Libre and its compatibility with insulin pumps, there aren't a lot of options and it's a little behind in this area when compared to other CGMs.

Currently, there are no pumps that can be used with the FreeStyle Libre 3 in the United States, but, based on somewhat recent reporting, this likely will change soon. Abbott, the manufacturer of FreeStyle, is working to be compatible with the YpsoPump insulin pump. This pump is already available outside the United States, but it is still pending launch here.

Additionally, there have been reports that in the future, it will be compatible with the Omnipod pump system and the Mylife t:slim X2, but it is not currently (Dexcom on the other hand, is compatible with both Omnipod and t:slim X2).

FreeStyle is compatible with a smart insulin pen (Bigfoot Unity). However, this isn't a pump but rather a pen where the CGM can provide insight into appropriate insulin dosages based on blood glucose levels.

So, unfortunately, the FreeStyle Libre is right now one of the least connected devices out there in regard to its compatibility with insulin pump systems, but reports are that that will change in 2023 (which is of course, subject to change).

Final Words

While it does look like 2023 will be the year that FreeStyle Libre CGM will become more compatible with insulin pumps, I would imagine it is unlikely it will be compatible with the MiniMed insulin pump in the near future as Medtronic (the company that makes MiniMed pumps) utilizes their own, competing, CGM product (Guardian) with the system.

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