Sanofi and Abbott are partnering to integrate glucose sensing and insulin delivery technologies that would help to further simplify how people with diabetes manage their condition. The two companies will take an innovative approach to connected care by developing tools that combine US-based Abbott's FreeStyle Libre technology with insulin dosing information for future smartpens, insulin titration apps and cloud software.
"For close to a century, Sanofi has been supporting those living with diabetes through our robust portfolio of medicines. This strategic relationship with Abbott is representative of the next evolution of our commitment for better diabetes care by incorporating digital tools into the daily life of people living with diabetes," said Gustavo Pesquin, Senior Vice President Global Diabetes and Cardiovascular Franchise at Sanofi. "By partnering with Abbott, we are a step closer to realizing our connected ecosystem, which would help improve control and the quality of life decision cycle for patients through individualized glycemic management of diabetes."
The non-exclusive collaboration will initially enable data sharing, at the consent of the user, between Abbott's FreeStyle Libre mobile app and cloud software and Sanofi's connected insulin pens, apps and cloud software that are currently in development. This data sharing will enable both people with diabetes and their doctors to make better-informed treatment decisions around medication, nutrition and lifestyle.
"As the global leader in continuous glucose monitoring, we see a significant opportunity to impact the health of millions of people living with diabetes by developing new tools and connectivity with Sanofi, a leader in the insulin space," said Jared Watkin, Senior Vice President, Diabetes Care, Abbott. "Diabetes can be overwhelming as it is an information-rich condition with various streams of data from multiple devices. Building a digital ecosystem around FreeStyle Libre simplifies the user experience by consolidating how people get their data – both through offering Abbott's digital health tools and by working with other diabetes and technology leaders."
Sanofi is currently working to provide connected pens, apps and cloud software that will be compatible with the FreeStyle Libre system and its compatible digital health tools. The two companies aim to bring this to people with diabetes within the next few years, pending local regulatory approvals.
FreeStyle Libre System
Abbott's FreeStyle Libre, the #1 sensor-based glucose monitoring system used worldwide, reads glucose levels through a sensor that can be worn on the back of the upper arm eliminating the need for fingersticks. FreeStyle Libre has changed the lives of more than 1.5 million people across 46 countries, and has secured partial or full reimbursement in 33 countries, including France, Ireland, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the US.
Abbott's FreeStyle LibreLinkiv app enables users to capture and view their real-time glucose levels, their eight-hour glucose history, and how their glucose is currently changing on their smartphone. LibreViewv is a secure cloud-based diabetes management system that gives people with diabetes and healthcare professionals clear, easy-to-understand reports from the FreeStyle Libre system. LibreLinkUpvi is an app that enables caregivers of people living with diabetes to remotely monitor their loved ones' glucose readings.