Health care technology company Abbott has recalled certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus continuous glucose monitoring systems because the sensors are displaying incorrect glucose readings that are lower than the body’s actual levels. This could lead to diabetic users making the wrong treatment decisions.

As of Jan. 7, Abbott reported that the recalled sensor has caused 860 serious injuries and been associated with seven deaths. 

On Nov. 24, 2025, Abbott sent a letter to all affected customers about this issue, and the US Food and Drug Administration notified the public on Dec. 2, 2025. Today, the FDA updated its alert to classify it as a Class I recall, meaning that the use of the affected FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus CGMs could cause serious health consequences or death.

The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is on CNET’s list of the best continuous glucose monitors, which has been updated to include a note about the recall.

How to find out if your Libre 3 CGM has been recalled

The FreeStyle Libre 3 model numbers that have been recalled are 72081-01 and 72080-01. The recalled FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus model numbers are 78768-01 and 78769-01.

If you have a FreeStyle Libre 3 or 3 Plus, you can check whether it was recalled at www.freestylecheck.com. There, you will be asked to confirm your sensor’s serial number, which can be located in or on the following:

• The FreeStyle Libre 3 app: On the main menu, click “About.” The serial number will be under “Last 3 Sensors.”
• Libre app: From the bottom menu, click “Profile,” then “About.” It will be under “Last 3 Sensors.”
• FreeStyle Libre 3 reader: In the settings menu, click “System Status,” then “System Info.”
• Sensor applicator or carton: You can find the serial number on the bottom label.

If you determine that your sensor is included in the recall, immediately discontinue use. On www.freestylecheck.com, you can report that your sensor is affected and a replacement will be sent to you at no cost. 

If you’re currently wearing a recalled sensor, Abbott recommends that you stop using it and remove it from your arm. Until your replacement arrives, you can use a blood glucose meter, your FreeStyle Libre 3 reader’s built-in meter or another sensor.

Abbott’s response

Following publication of this article, Abbott provided the following statement to CNET via email, which was publicly announced on Nov. 24, 2025.

“Abbott initiated a medical device correction on Nov. 24, 2025, for certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors in the US after internal testing determined that some of these sensors may provide incorrect low glucose readings. We immediately contacted customers to make them aware and provide support,” the company explains.

“Abbott has identified and resolved the cause of the issue, which relates to one production line among several that make Libre 3 and Libre 3 Plus sensors. The company continues to produce Libre 3 and Libre 3 Plus sensors to fulfill replacement and new orders and doesn’t expect significant supply disruptions.”