Abbott Receives Green Light from FDA for Libre Rio and Lingo

Abbott Laboratories recently obtained the green light from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for two innovative continuous glucose monitoring systems, including a device tailored for individuals without diabetes. Both products are set to hit the market over the counter without the need for a prescription.

The market potential for Abbott is substantial, as the company’s current CGM devices are already in use by approximately 6 million patients in over 60 countries. With around 38.4 million people grappling with diabetes in the United States alone, Abbott sees the introduction of consumer-focused CGM systems as a game-changer, reaching a whole new demographic.

Abbott’s latest offerings, Libre Rio and Lingo, cater to distinct groups. Libre Rio targets Type 2 diabetes patients not using insulin, while Lingo is aimed at consumers keen on enhancing their overall health and wellness. Lingo users will wear a biosensor on their upper arm for two-week intervals and access their glucose data through a dedicated coaching app on their mobile devices. This personalized coaching based on individual data aims to assist users in retraining their metabolism and boosting their overall well-being.

It’s worth noting that Abbott is venturing into the over-the-counter diabetes market in the U.S. for the first time with Libre Rio, a move that signifies a significant milestone for the company. Over the past decade, Abbott’s CGM offerings sans prescription have been available in various countries. Libre Rio is tailored for Type 2 diabetes patients who typically manage their condition through lifestyle adjustments.

Competitor Dexcom, a key player in the CGM sector, also secured FDA approval for its maiden over-the-counter CGM earlier this year. The race to make CGM technology more accessible and user-friendly is heating up, with companies like Abbott and Dexcom at the forefront of innovation.

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