Abbott Secures FDA Approval for Two Over-The-Counter Glucose Trackers

Abbott Laboratories has received FDA approval for two new over-the-counter continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, Libre Rio and Lingo. These systems aim to expand accessibility to glucose monitoring technology for a broader audience, including those with Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin and consumers seeking to improve their overall health and wellness. The devices can be worn on the upper arm for 14 days and track glucose levels in real-time, sending data to a smartphone app. This approval positions Abbott to potentially increase its market share in the CGM sector, where its existing systems are already used by around 6 million patients in 60 countries.

Libre Rio is targeted at adults with Type 2 diabetes who typically manage their condition through lifestyle modifications, while Lingo is designed for health-conscious individuals looking to gain insights into their metabolism and improve their well-being. Both systems offer personalized insights and coaching through their associated apps. This move follows a trend in the CGM market, with competitors like Dexcom also receiving FDA approval for over-the-counter devices. The introduction of these new products is expected to make glucose monitoring more accessible and could potentially benefit a larger population, including those with prediabetes or those interested in preventive health measures.