Some people who use a Freestyle Libre 3 glucose sensor are facing delays getting their prescriptions filled.
Abbott spokesperson Lindsy Delco said the delays are driven by strong demand for the Libre 3 sensors. The company is ramping up production, adding capacity to an existing manufacturing facility this month, and opening a new manufacturing facility later this year, she wrote in an email.
J.P. Morgan analyst Robbie Marcus said in a research note that the issues seem to be “very temporary,” based on his conversations with Abbott’s management.
“Essentially, some patients are seeing delays in their scripts getting filled at certain U.S. retail pharmacies due to a low on-shelf inventory, and while there are likely some minor supply issues causing these script delays, demand also has been very strong as Abbott continues to gain share in the U.S.,” Marcus wrote on Thursday.
If people are unable to get Libre 3 sensors through their pharmacy or mail order company, Delco recommended checking back in a few days to see if they have new supply.
If there are prolonged delays, another option is to talk to a healthcare provider about switching to a prescription for Freestyle Libre 3 Plus, Delco said. The Food and Drug Administration cleared the newer version of the sensor last year. It has a 15-day wear time, instead of 14 days for the Libre 3. The Libre 3 Plus has supply at both pharmacies and mail-order companies, according to Abbott.
