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Lingo

Used for Diagnosis
Used for Diagnosis

Lingo is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system for people 18 years and older who aren't using insulin. It's available over the counter, and comes with a sensor that attaches to your skin and a mobile app. It was FDA cleared in June 2024 to continuously measure glucose values and help people better understand how their lifestyle affects glucose changes. Unlike other CGMs, it's not meant to help manage diabetes.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 12, 2024
BasicsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Lingo?

What is Lingo used for?

  • Monitor glucose levels

How Lingo works

The Lingo system is made up of two parts that work together to measure and record your glucose levels throughout the day.

  • Sensor: The sensor is attached to the skin on the back of your upper arm to measure your glucose levels from just below the skin.

  • Lingo app: The app on a compatible iPhone displays and stores the readings.

Are you looking for information on FreeStyle Libre 3 System instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLingo
Drug ClassContinuous glucose monitoring
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Lingo essentials

Diabetes: senior man using CGM with smartwatch 1964992302

FreeStyle Libre vs. Lingo: 6 Things to Know When Comparing These CGMs

Written by Christina Aungst, PharmD
pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Lingo

thumbs-up

Pros

Displays glucose levels every minute on your mobile phone

Provides coaching insights based on your body's reaction to diet and exercise

Available without a prescription

Only need to change sensor every 2 weeks

thumbs-down

Cons

Only works with an app on compatible mobile devices

Sensor must be stored between 39°F and 77°F to work properly

Not FDA cleared for people younger than 18 years old

Can't be used to manage diabetes

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Lingo

pharmacist

How to set up your Lingo:

  • The Lingo system only works with an app on a compatible mobile phone. Download the Lingo app to pair with your sensor and see your glucose readings.

    How to start using your Lingo:

    • When you're ready to insert your Lingo sensor, first wash and dry your hands. Choose the place on the back of your upper arm where you want to insert the sensor and wash the area. Clean it with an alcohol wipe and allow the area to air dry.

      • Peel off the lid from the Lingo biosensor pack. Then, unscrew the cap from the sensor applicator and line the dark mark on the applicator up with the dark mark on the sensor pack. Place the sensor applicator on a flat, hard surface and press down firmly until it stops.

        • Lift the applicator out of the sensor pack, and push the sensor applicator firmly against the site on the back of your upper arm to apply the sensor.

          • Gently pull the applicator away from your body, and make sure the sensor is secure.

            • Place the cap back on the sensor applicator and throw both the applicator and sensor pack away.

              • Open the Lingo app and follow the instructions to pair your sensor. You'll start seeing glucose readings 1 hour after pairing a new sensor.

                How to remove Lingo sensors:

                • You'll need to replace your Lingo sensor once every 14 days, or sooner if it becomes loose.

                  • To remove the sensor, slowly peel one side away from your skin just like you would a bandage.

                    • When applying a new sensor, choose a place on the back of your upper arm that's different from the most recent position. This will help prevent skin irritation.

                      • Follow your local regulations when disposing of used sensors, since they're considered electronic equipment, batteries, sharps, and biohazard material.

                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Lingo

                        Do I need a prescription for Lingo?
                        No. Lingo is available over the counter, so you don't need a prescription to get it. But it's not meant to manage diabetes. If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare professional about the best way to monitor your glucose levels.
                        How often does Lingo measure my glucose levels?
                        Lingo measures glucose levels every minute. You can see your glucose values in the Lingo app. Keep in mind that after applying a new sensor it'll take 1 hour before the app can display your readings.
                        How long does the Lingo sensor last?
                        The Lingo sensor lasts up to 14 days. After this time, your glucose readings might not be accurate. Make sure to use a new sensor every 14 days, since they can't be reused.
                        What's the difference between Freestyle Libre and Lingo?
                        Both Freestyle Libre and Lingo are continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) made by Abbott, but they have a few important differences. For one, FreeStyle Libre models (e.g., Libre 14 Day, Libre 2, and Libre 3) all require a prescription, while Lingo is available over the counter. All of the Freestyle Libre models are FDA cleared for people with diabetes, but Lingo is only meant for people looking to improve their health and wellness. These devices display different ranges of glucose values. Follow up with your healthcare professional about additional differences between these CGMs.
                        Does it hurt to use Lingo?
                        In a small survey, around 92% of people said it was painless to apply the Lingo sensor. If you experience pain that isn't going away, or redness or swelling, contact your primary care provider.
                        Can I shower while wearing the Lingo sensor?
                        Yes, you can shower, bathe, or swim while wearing the Lingo sensor. It’s water-resistant and can be worn in water up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes. Keep in mind that it might not work well in environments that are hotter than 113°F.
                        What is the range of glucose values that Lingo can report?
                        Lingo can report glucose values between 55 mg/dL and 200 mg/dL. These values are displayed in the Lingo app.
                        Can I use the Lingo app on an android phone?
                        No. Currently, the Lingo app only works on iOS (e.g., iPhone 11 or higher). Android isn't a supported device, but the app might be available on it soon.
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                        What are the risks and warnings for Lingo?

                        Lingo can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                        risk-warning

                        Warning for medical tests and imaging

                        You must remove Lingo before getting a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, or high-frequency electrical heat (diathermy) treatment. These medical tests might damage the sensor and cause incorrect glucose readings. You can apply a new sensor after your test is finished. Don't reuse the sensor you removed.

                        risk-warning

                        Warning for security machines

                        If you're going through security, such as at the airport, let the security personnel know that you're wearing a CGM. Don't go through any scanners using X-ray waves while wearing a Lingo sensor. Instead, request that they use another method for screening. It’s not known how X-rays or other scanners affect this product, and they might damage the sensor or impact its performance. Lingo sensors can, however, go through body scanners that use electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

                        risk-warning

                        Not for use in people on dialysis or very ill

                        Ask your primary care provider before using Lingo if you're on dialysis or if you're very ill. It isn't known how well the device works in these situations.

                        risk-warning

                        Only for use on the back of the upper arm

                        Only apply the Lingo sensor to the back of your upper arm. It isn't known how well it works if you place it somewhere else on your body, and you might get results that aren't accurate.

                        risk-warning

                        Risk of vitamin C causing false blood sugar readings

                        Taking vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can affect the accuracy of the glucose readings from Lingo. If you take more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C while wearing the sensor, your glucose readings might be falsely high. Before taking any supplements, check how much vitamin C they contain. Vitamin C is commonly found in multivitamins and cold remedies. If you're not sure, ask your pharmacist for help.

                        risk-warning

                        Don't reuse sensors

                        The Lingo sensors are only meant for single use. Don't reuse or share them with anyone else. If you reuse them, you might get inaccurate glucose readings. Reusing or sharing sensors raises the risk of infection. If your sensor becomes loose, remove it and apply a new sensor.

                        dosage

                        Lingo dosage forms

                        Typical dosing for Lingo

                        Adults ages 18 years and older: Place a new Lingo sensor on the skin of the back of the upper arm once every 14 days.

                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Lingo?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Lingo. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Lingo
                        Used for:

                        • Monitor glucose levels

                        View Prices
                        Stelo
                        Used for:

                        • Monitor glucose levels

                        View Prices

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                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Are biosensors waterproof or water resistant?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Can I use Lingo with diabetes?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Can I wear my biosensor during airport security checks?

                        View All References (11)

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Can I wear my biosensor in a sauna or hot tub?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Does applying a biosensor hurt?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). How do I apply and activate my biosensor?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). How do I download the Lingo app?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). How do I remove my biosensor?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). How is Lingo real-time?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). Should I remove my biosensor during an MRI/CT scan or diathermy?

                        Abbott. (n.d.). What are the minimum system requirements for the Lingo app?

                        National Kidney Foundation. (2023). Dialysis.

                        U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). 510(k) substantial equivalence determination decision summary: Assay and instrument.

                        U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). Diathermy.

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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