FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus CGM funded from 1 May 2025
Pharmac is funding a new continuous glucose monitor (CGM) – the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus from 1 May 2025.
16 May 2025 | Alcohol wipes no longer included
We've received questions about why alcohol wipes are no longer included. Mediray advises that they had to be removed from the packaging following a regulatory change.
FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus
The FreeStyle Libre 2 is being upgraded to the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus.
The upgrade means:
- You can wear the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus for 15 days. This is a day longer than the FreeStyle Libre 2.
- It is more accurate than the FreeStyle Libre 2
It is a standalone CGM, which means you don’t need to have an insulin pump to use it. The size, phone app, reader, adhesive, and application are the same as the FreeStyle Libre 2.
It will be funded for everyone with type 1 diabetes or type 3c diabetes.
Alcohol wipes no longer included
Mediray, the supplier, advises that the alcohol wipes had to be removed because of a regulatory change.
People will need a new prescription
People who are using the Freestyle Libre 2 will need to get a new prescription for the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus.
When is this happening?
The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus will be available from 1 May 2025.
The Freestyle Libre 2 will remain funded until 1 May 2026 to give pharmacists time to claim for all dispensings.
How many people can get is changing
Because people can wear the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus for longer, Pharmac is changing how many people can get.
Pharmac will fund a maximum of 28 FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus CGMs a year – or 6 per prescription.
Previously, people could get up to 29 FreeStyle Libre 2 CGMs a year – or 7 per prescription.
Why is this happening?
Pharmac’s contracts with the suppliers of CGMs allow for new CGM technology to be introduced as it becomes available. Mediray/Abbott (the supplier) advised that it is discontinuing the FreeStyle Libre 2.
Who to contact
If you have questions about this change, you can email us on enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz