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Dexcom CGM Sensor Full Guide

  • Diabetes: Approaches to Diagnoses and Monitoring
  • Dexcom Sensors: Description and Operations
  • Dexcom Sensor Types
  • Dexcom ONE+
  • Dexcom G6
  • Dexcom G7
  • Dexcom Stelo
  • Medical Benefits of Using Dexcom Sensors
  • Who Should Use Dexcom Sensors?
  • Using A Dexcom Sensor: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • Using A Dexcom Sensor: Tips and Troubleshooting
  • Safety Considerations and Contraindications
  • Comparing Dexcom Sensors with Other CGMS
  • Cost and Insurance Coverage
  • Optimizing Diabetes Management

Diabetes: Approaches to Diagnoses and Monitoring

Over 10.5% of the global adult population aged 20-79 lives with diabetes, approximately 537 million people in total. . The IDF Diabetes Atlas (idf.org) estimates that the number of adults living with diabetes in the world by 2045 will be 783 million.  Equal to an increase of 46% versus current number.  These figures illustrates the increasing burden of diabetes on the global adult population. Efforts at lessening this burden have been directed mainly toward two areas : optimizing the therapy option available for preventive care and management; and developing reliable and less-invasive diagnostic options.

In the 1990s, the popular diagnostic options leveraged intermittent self-monitoring of blood glucose using the invasive finger-prick method. Although cheap and readily available, this method has multiple shortcomings.  It is inconvenient, often painful and the patient needs a more timely and regular feedback. To accurately monitor therapy outcomes and positively influence prognosis, the endocrinologists needed a more reliable, consistent reproducible diagnostic method that offers regular blood glucose feedback.

Scientific research into this direction developed multiple improved diagnostic options including the HbA1c test, the self-monitored blood glucose test (SMBG), and the interstitial glucose test. Since then, the landscape of diabetes diagnosis and monitoring has expanded rapidly. Blood glucose level monitoring using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) has become widely practiced and accepted. CGM technologies measure glucose levels continuously, with updates digitally transmitted on frequent intervals. With CGMs, the blood glucose level data can be obtained timely during typical everyday life and with much reduced negative impact on patient’s lives.

Dexcom Sensors: Description and Operations

Dexcom sensors are among the most popular CGM technologies in the market today. In August 2022, the NHS rolled out the distribution of CGMs to patients with type-1 diabetes. Since this roll-out, the level of CGM adoption in England has surged. Dexcom launched their first CGM in the USA already back in 2006 and have since then been introduced to most countries in the world.  Many health insurance companies and national health authorities have recognized the healthcare economic benefits of CGMs, which has driven a rapid rise of their usage in recent years. 

CGM technologies consist of three main components: a glucose oxidase-based  (GOD) glucose sensor, a transmitter and a receiver. The glucose sensor is inserted into the subcutaneous fatty tissue, tethering the CGM sensor into the interstitial fluid pool. The sensor’s GOD-based glucose sensor catalyzes hydrogen peroxide production through a complex chemical reaction with the glucose constituent of the interstitial fluid. The volume of hydrogen peroxide released is positively correlated to the glucose concentration in the interstitial fluid. In turn, the hydrogen peroxide is oxidized at the sensor’s electrode with a catalytic release of electrons as result.

The electron flow rate is proportional to the volume of hydrogen peroxide oxidized at the electrodes. The transmitter receives the electron data, decodes it, and relays an appropriate result to display a corresponding blood glucose value on the receiver. Today, two CGM technologies use this workflow: real-time glucose monitoring systems (rtCGM) like Dexcom, and the intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (iscCGM) system. 

Dexcom and other rtCGMs measure glucose levels intermittently delivering reproducible glucose measurements every 1 – 5 minutes.  Typically, Dexcom sensors are installed in the upper abdomen or the upper arm with an average sensor wearable time of 10 days. Depending on the sensor type, calibration instructions and usage flexibility may differ.

Dexcom Sensor Types

Several Dexcom sensors are available on the market today: Dexcom ONE+,  Dexcom G6 Dexcom G7 and the new Dexcom Stelo. 

Dexcom ONE+

First Launched in Spain, Belgium, and Poland in February 2024, the Dexcome ONE+ sensor is acclaimed by Dexcom as ‘the most accurate Dexcom sensor yet.’ It is approved for use in diabetics aged 2 years and above and requires no finger pricks, manual scanning, or calibrations. 

The Dexcom ONE+ kit features a 60% smaller sensor versus the previous Dexcom One model and offers up to 3 different wear locations for users. Inserted just under the skin, the Dexcom ONE+ sensor is designed to transmit glucose level data to its receiver every 5 minutes. With a sensor wearable period of 10 days, this CGM presents an economical option for continuous glucose monitoring in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The water-resistant sensor has a smartphone-compatible app, allowing for shared monitoring among up to 10 users.

Features of Dexcom ONE+
  • Exceptional Accuracy

Dexcom’s biggest marketing story for the Dexcom ONE+ is the CGM’s exceptional accuracy compared to its peers.  Patients and care providers can reliably depend on Dexcom ONE+ glucose data to decide on insulin dosing and estimate treatment outcomes. This feature alone has crafted an industry-level reputation for the Dexcom range of sensors. 

  • No Fingerpricks or Calibrations

The Dexcom ONE+ sensor needs no calibration via finger prick. Conventional glucose monitoring systems require a baseline calibration for accuracy. Depending on disease and patient-specific factors, the frequency of calibration may differ. Dexcom ONE+ eliminates the need for calibration by leveraging a patented calibration technology.

  • Customizable Alerts and Notifications

Dexcom ONE+ also features a highly intuitive alerts- and notification system, customizable and user-friendly. Its unique Delay 1st Alert system helps users adapt their glucose levels to their insulin dosing and meals. High glucose readings can be common immediately after a meal but since alarms are customizable on the Dexcom ONE+, users can delay their first high alert to reduce the risk of alert fatigue. 

Dexcom G6

The Dexcom G6 sensor is a game changer in the global CGM market and Dexcom describes it as ‘the world’s most powerful integrated continuous glucose monitoring system’. Launched in September 2023 for use in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the Dexcom G6 was considered the standard of care in diabetes management. 

Designed for diabetics aged 2 and above, the Dexcom G6 also offers next-level connectivity with leading diabetes management interfaces globally. It connects with insulin pumps like the Tandem t:sliM X2 and Ypsomed mylife YpsoPump; lifestyle devices like Garmin; and digital diabetes management apps like Happy Bob, Sugarmate and Glooko. 

At launch, Dexcom G6 was the first and only CGM device to connect to the Omnipod 5 automated insulin delivery system in Germany, providing users with a uniquely intuitive experience detecting and managing their glucose levels. Dexcom G6 also holds the record as the world’s first real-time, integrated CGM system designed to seamlessly connect with a range of insulin pens and hybrid close-looped pump system partners.

Dexcom G6 Features
  • Real-time Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Unlike previous CGMs, the Dexcom G6 offers users real-time glucose level insights delivered to a receiver or the patient’s smart device. This feature streamlines data collection and therapy monitoring; it ensures that insulin dosing reflects real-time glucose levels. Patients can also decide to share their glucose readings with a group of 10 ‘followers’. Designated followers will receive notifications and alerts about glucose level fluctuations.  

  • Dexcom Clarity Compatibility

Dexcom G6 introduced the Dexcom Clarity Software: a patented diabetes management software designed to collate and report on the accumulated blood glucose data. Dexcom Clarity represents a much-needed interface between health data analytics and biomedical science. It presents cumulative blood glucose data in easy-to-read graphs, describes glucose fluctuation trends, and highlights day-by-day statistic glucose level insights. 

The Dexcom Clarity Patterns feature provides clinical context to the frequency, duration, and intensity of hypo- and hyperglycemic states. Patients can email the clinical data generated by Dexcom Clarity to their care providers or share their metrics within a patient support group.

  • Improved Accuracy and Clinical Outcome

Dexcom G6 is arguably the most researched CGM system on the market today. In an attempt to compare its acclaimed accuracy to conventional monitoring systems, researchers have put G6 to the test in many investigations. In 2018, a group of researchers assessed the accuracy of factory-calibrated Dexcom G6, using a participant pool of 62 patients (25 adults and 36 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years). This study provided the first research support validating the accuracy of Dexcom G6 throughout its 10-day sensor lifecycle.

  • Urgent ‘Low Soon’ Alerts

With Dexcom G6, patients need not worry about sudden, unprovoked hypoglycemic episodes. The Dexcom G6 tracking algorithm identifies continuously declining glucose levels and triggers a ‘Low Soon’ alert. ‘Low Soon’ alerts are triggered in advance, warning the patient of potentially dangerous low glucose values (55 mg/dL or below) associated with hypoglycemia if not taking avoiding action for the falling blood glucose value. 

  • Dexcom Auto-Applicator

The Dexcom G6 auto-applicator offers patient-friendly flexibility for sensor installation. The Auto-applicator is as easy to use as the push of a button, for the patient or caregivers to insert the sensor and snap on the transmitter. 

Dexcom G7

Dexcom describes G7 as the champion of ‘next-generation CGM systems.’ In October 2022, Dexcom announced that the G7 received the CE mark — a key approval allowing the sale of G7 for diabetes patients in many markets across Europe. The G7 would later launch in the United States in 2023. The G7 design — modeled to improve on the G6 – focused primarily on streamlining glucose data capturing, improving data sharing, and providing next-level statistics on glucose fluctuation patterns.  

Like other CGMs in the G series, Dexcom G7 requires no scanning or finger pricks. Dexcom’s smallest CGM, the G7, can also integrate with various popular devices. It leverages Bluetooth to connect seamlessly to the Apple Watch with a ‘Direct to Watch’ feature. This feature sends glucose readings directly to users’ Apple watches when active. Another marketing feature that immediately sticks out is Dexcom G7’s approval for use in pregnancy.

Dexcom G7 Features
  • Smaller Size

The G7 is the smallest Dexcom CGM device today; it is 60% smaller than the G6 and more circular. For emphasis, it is about the size of 3 quarters stacked on one another. Combined with its adhesive profile, the G7’s small size gives it multiple installation options: users can install it on the back of the upper arm, the abdomen, and the upper buttock. 

  • The Most Accurate Dexcom Device

In the world of CGMs, accuracy and precision are measured with a metric called MARD — an acronym for mean absolute relative difference. MARD is measured in percentage and describes the difference between the real glucose level and the CGM sensor glucose reading. So, the lower the MARD value for a CGM sensor, the more accurate its readings. G7 has a MARD of 8.2%, compared to G6’s MARD of 9.0%. It is worth noting that while the MARD values for both devices differ, they still fall within the accuracy requirements of the FDA.

  • Shorter Warm-up Time and Grace Period

For users who have tried G6 and other Dexcom CGMs, one feature immediately stands out with the G7: it has a noticeably shorter warm-up time. Dexcom describes the G7 as its ‘fastest sensor’ with only a 30-minute warm-up time required, while the G6 has a 2-hour warm-up time. Closely associated with this feature is an offered ‘grace’ period. The G7 has a 12-hour grace period, granting users an extra half-day after maxing out the initial 10 days of continuous use.

  • Intuitive Alert System

Dexcom keeps improving its G-series CGMs with improved, patient-friendly alert systems. The G7 offers users multiple alert customization settings: low and high alerts, nine different sound selections, and varying sound intensities. The ‘delay first alert’ (first introduced on the G6) is also available on the G7 — where users can easily track and be timely alerted againstpotentially dangerous low glucose levels. An ‘alert schedule’ feature allows users to customize different alerts for day and night — and even on weekends. 

  • Combined Sensor-transmitter System

Dexcom G7 compacts its sensor and transmitter in one sleek, discreet design. Compared with the G6, this all-in-one design makes it simpler and easier to use.

Dexcom Stelo

Stelo is the latest addition to Dexcom’s glucose sensor family and was the first glucose sensor that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for over-the-counter (OTC) sales. The Stelo sensor is being marketed as a glucose biosensor and targeted for anyone 18 years and older who does not use insulin, including type 2 diabetics treating their condition with oral medications, pre-diabetics or for those who want to better understand how diet and exercise may impact their blood sugar levels.  Stelo was launched to the marked on August 26 2024 and have seen a rapid sales pickup as it does not require a medical prescription as the other CGMs on the marked does.

Stelo and its dedicated Stelo App on user’s smartphone assist with personalized insights to make health a habit, as it provides nonstop access to personal glucose insights, empowering the user to uncover what works best for them.  Blood glucose tracking has been made easy, with no prescription required and no fingersticks – ever.  The Stelo sensor was built upon the proven technologies of the advanced G7 sensor and has exact same physical size and shape. Similarly, it requires no manual scanning of the sensor as all blood glucose results are seamlessly sent via Bluetooth to the user’s phone. 

Dexcom Stelo Features
  • No Prescription Required

The Stelo glucose biosensor is targeted for a broader audience of customers that want to track their blood glucose levels 24/7 to reveal how food, exercise, and even sleep can affect our blood glucose levels.  Helping to become a healthier you.  It has therefore been approved for over the counter sales direct to customers with no need of a medical prescription, as is otherwise required for other blood glucose sensors on the market.

  • The Dedicated Stelo App Experience

The easy-to-use Stelo app shows your glucose levels and target range that reveal patterns in your daily glucose levels—empowering you to make informed choices that work best specifically for you.  Among the functions, the Stela App notifies you if you have any blood glucose spikes, so you can adjust your habits and diminish such swings going forward. You are offered daily insights that reveal the steps you can take to realize better glucose wellness.  This is available through expert-curated information, practical tips and inspiring guidance.    

  • Short Warm-up Time and Extended Sensor Lifetime

For users who have tried G7 and other Dexcom CGMs will notice that the Stelo sensor is on par or even better performing than the rest with regards to warm-up time and sensor lifetime.  The Dexcom Stelo only needs a 30-minute warm-up time before it is ready to show you your blood glucose levels.  And more astonishing is it’s much extended sensor lifetime of 15 days runtime.  Stela also offer a ‘grace’ period of 12 hours, upon sensor expiry, as similar to the G7 sensor, granting users an extra half-day after maxing out the 15 days of continuous use.

  • Activity Logging and Health Apps Connectivity

The Dexcom Stela system allows you to track and log all your meals and activities you engage in.  This helps to analyze and reveal how your body responds to certain foods and activities.  Next to this, it can also integrate with other health apps, that combines data from e.g. your sports watch or fitness machinery.  Apple Health is just one of many such platforms Stela interface with, which enable integrating exercise and sleep data from your favorite tracking apps into the Stela app.  

Medical Benefits of Using Dexcom Sensors

In diabetes management, clinical outcome is strongly linked to monitoring and diagnostics techniques. Flexible diagnostics and monitoring options complement the various therapy options available for diabetics. This is the unique advantage a real-time continuous glucose monitoring  (rt-CGM) technology like Dexcom offers. In a snapshot, the multiple clinical advantages of switching to CGM technologies include:

  • Combined Monitoring and Tracking Insights

Blood glucose meters provide a one-time, instant glucose level snapshot in diabetics; CGMs provide dynamic real-time glucose readings. This alone is the biggest clinical advantage CGMs offer over conventional fingerprick glucose meters. Dexcom CGM’s transmitted data gives continuous feedback on how nutrition, insulin therapy, and physical activity influence glucose levels. This helps care providers modify diabetes therapy, design optimized physical activityregimes, and prescribe appropriate dieting plans — all these help the patients achieve greater glycemic control faster. 

  • Improved Glycemic Control

Dexcom’s real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems calculate glucose readings and provide results at a glance. In diabetes management, this feature leads to many benefits: reduced incidence of repeat hypoglycemic crisis, improved A1c in both types of diabetes, and reduced hyperglycemia events. Only a few digital devices in modern medicine rival the Dexcom’s patient-centric design. 

  • Optimized Self-management

Getting periodical glucose level readings has changed the game of disease self-management for diabetes patientsglobally. The Clarity App and Level feature increase patients’ insights on how physical activity, diabetes medications, stress, and diet influence their glucose levels — insights like this improve patients’ ability to self-assess the therapy impacts. 

  • Overall Improvement in Quality of Life

Dexcom ultimately solves the usual challenges associated with conventional methods of glucose level measurement. Dexcom eliminated the need for fingerstick testing, manual record-keeping, and sudden hypoglycemic crisis. The outcome is easily predictable: improved quality of life and disease prognosis. Remote sharing and feedback features help patients communicate glucose level trends with their care providers and loved ones. This positively impact their motivation and improve medication adherence.

Who Should Use Dexcom Sensors?

Without a doubt, the most popular narrative out there is that CGMs are designed for people living with diabetes. This is true but with an important extension: CGMs have gained interest in communities beyond just diabetics. Tracking glucose levels has become wanted, especially among people striving to optimize their health. This reason alone has expanded the customer base of CGM manufacturing companies. 

In its 2022 annual report, Dexcom announced plans to shift from an exclusive diabetics target and meet the ‘unique needs of different markets.’ Soon, CGM manufacturing companies might explore use cases of CGMs largely in non-diabetics. 

Here are the popular use cases of CGMs today  — and what the science says. 

  • People living with diabetes

With a global population of 537 million adults, diabetics remain the primary target of CGM manufacturing companies. In fact, CGMs are almost indispensable in people with type 1 diabetes. Diabetics need data on their glucose levels to guide their food choices and determine their insulin dosage. People at risk of diabetes (including those with a positive family history of diabetes) can also invest in CGM as a preventive measure, tracking how behavioral factors influence their glucose levels.  

  • People on Weight Loss Programs

Dexcom and other CGMs are gaining increasing acceptance in the community of people hoping to cut their weight. Although these devices are not expressly marketed for this, there are many reasons why they might be useful in this population. Today, many startups focused on helping people manage their weight now advise on CGM use. 

For instance, January AI, a startup leveraging metabolic science, behavioral psychology, and artificial intelligence to improve people’s ‘health span’, claims CGMs help their non-diabetic clients lose a modest amount of weight (over 4 pounds in 3 months). In theory, this might be possible. Glucose spike alerts can help non-diabetic CGM users track their calorie intake and take prercautionary measures to avoid or minimize these glucose spikes. Since a calorie deficit is pivotal to weight loss, January AI’s claim may carry some truth. 

  • Patients in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction  Programs

In a 2004 study, Emily Levitan and his team presented clinical evidence suggesting that blood glucose level is an important cardiovascular risk marker in non-diabetic healthy adults (8). Many other studies agree with this finding. By establishing a link between cardiovascular crisis and glucose spikes, these studies inadvertently created a clinical use case for Dexcom and other CGMs in people at risk of cardiovascular diseases. CGMs track glucose spikes over an extended period of time, helping cardiologists better estimate the risk of cardiovascular crisis in non-diabetic patients. 

Using A Dexcom Sensor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Although the structural design may differ, most CGMs are designed to have the same essential parts. The sensor is by far the most important component. If the sensor configuration and usage are faulty, glucose readings may be wrong. So, every user should understand the best technique for setting up a Dexcom sensor – this is the first step to improved tracking and monitoring. 

For clarity, this guide will discuss steps to using your Dexcom sensor under two broad topics: setting up your Dexcom app and preparing the Dexcom CGM and Transmitter. Note that on-screen prompts may differ depending on your Dexcom model, but the steps remain the same. 

The Dexcom app is the digital interface between your sensor and the receiver. To set up the Dexcom App, follow the steps below:

  1. Download the Dexcom app on your phone — it is available on the Google Play Store for Android users and the Apple App Store for iPhone users. 
  2. Set and create a new Dexcom account with your email address. A verification email will be sent to confirm your email and password. 
  3. Log into the App, read the safety policy statement, and tap ’I understand’. Complete other routine checks and proceed to set alert levels. 
  4. Set your alert levels by manually inputting appropriate values for ‘Low Alert’ and ‘High Alert.’ Typically glucose levels of 60 mg/dL and 190 mg/dL are recommended for ‘Low Alert’ and ‘High Alert’ respectively — your care provider may suggest different values based on your therapy targets. Tap ‘Turn on Notifications’ and choose ‘Allow’.
  5. Once the alert values are set, the transmitter screen pops up. Click ‘Next.’
  6. A page describing the Bluetooth / Transmitter information pops up. Click ‘OK,’ and then ‘Next’ to set up a Bluetooth connection. A Bluetooth connection is required for the seamless data exchange between your phone and the Dexcom transmitter. 

Once the Dexcom app is fully set up, the next step is preparing the Dexcom CGM and transmitter for installation. 

  1. Find the 6-digit number on the Dexcom transmitter box. Alternatively, users can also find the number on the transmitter itself. 
  2. Open the Dexcom app, and enter the 6-digit transmitter number. This step establishes a Bluetooth connection between your phone and the Dexcom transmitter. 

 

  1. Decide on a spot on your skin to install the CGM. The recommended installation spot may differ depending on the Dexcom model. It is also advisable to consult your healthcare provider before deciding on a spot.
  2. Avoid spots with skin irritation, scarring, and tattoos. 
  3. Clean the selected spot with alcohol wipes. Make sure the skin is dry before proceeding. 
  4. Peel off the adhesive cover on the CGM and save the 4-digit code displayed on it. The 4-digit code is required to start the new CGM.
  5.  Apply the stick pad to the cleaned spot and press gently to ensure it sticks.
  6. Bend and break the safety guard to unlock the applicator button.
  7. Allow the applicator to rest gently on the skin, then push the button without pushing down on the whole applicator.
  8. The CGM is inserted correctly once you hear a click. Now, pull the applicator away.

(not relevant for G7)

  1. Remove the transmitter from the box. It is advisable to keep the transmitter box as it may provide important information needed after applying the transmitter.
  2. Clean the back of the transmitter with the provided alcohol wipes.
  3. Gently slide the tab into the slot provided on the CGM (the CGM is already on the skin at this stage)
  4. Open the Dexcom app and follow the on-screen prompts to activate the transmitter.
  5. Accept the Bluetooth pairing request on your phone.
  6. Click ‘Startt Sensor’ to begin your CGM warm-up. During warm-up, keep your phone within 20 feet of the transmitter. 
  7. Once the warm-up period is complete, the transmitter starts sending glucose level data to your Dexcom app. 

The guide here covers the practical steps to install and pair your Dexcom sensor to the Dexcom app. Users are encouraged to navigate the Dexcom app and get familiar with its multiple functionalities. Other activities to be completed include configuring Dexcom alerts, connecting Dexcom to levels, and logging in food, exercise, and notes.

Using A Dexcom Sensor: Tips and Troubleshooting

Dexcom devices are designed to meet the strict compliance criteria expected of CGM devices. However, packaging errors, poor storage conditions or poor installation …. May result in multiple technical problems. The most common troubleshooting tips include:

Solution: 

  1. Check that the installation site is flat, clean, dry, and has no scars or tattoos. 
  2.  After satisfying the condition above, add extra adhesive over the patch before re-applying the adhesive patch.
  3.  Ensure the sensor is placed on areas without skin folds – sensors should also be far from bends or near waistbands. 
  4. Remove any adhesive residue left on the skin by an old sensor before installing a new one. Consider using a body oil or adhesive remover.

Solution:

  1. A ‘Sensor failed’ alert may happen anytime during a sensor session. Once received, proceed to the help screen for more information
  2. Remove the sensor; start by peeling off the patch from the edge.
  3. Insert and pair new sensor
  4. Review Choose Sensor Site by Age in the ‘Inserting Sensor’ section.

Solution:

  1. Turn off the screen. Then press a receiver button to wake it up and light the screen
  2. Move to a shaded location or consider changing the screen brightness if you are in bright sunlight. To change screen brightness, follow Menu > Settings > Display > Screen Brightness
  3. Turn the receiver off at Menu > Power off. Turn it back on by pressing the Select button for 3 – 5 seconds

Solution:

  1. Verify that the receive is on
  2. Make sure the receiver’s setting is not on ‘Vibrate Only’
  3. Consider changing your alert setting to a more audible sound option.
  4. Test your receiver speaker by following the speaker test prompts on the screen. Go to Menu > Information > Receiver > Speaker Test

Solution:

  1. Check that you are not sensitive to the sensor adhesive. You should consult your care provider for more information
  2. Ensure to use a different sensor site from the last one
  3. Moisturize the skin between sensor sessions – avoid moisturizing the skin on the same day the sensor is inserted.
  4. If irritation persists, consult your healthcare provider or go to dexcom.com/fags for more tips.

Solution: 

  1.  Gently peel off the adhesive patch with the applicator attached
  2. Check the insertion site to make sure the sensor is off the skin
  3. Change applicator
  4. Contact your local technical support if the issue persists — go to Profile > Contact

Consult the FAQ section on the Dexcom website for more troubleshooting options.

Safety Considerations and Contraindications

Dexcom CGMs are intended to replace fingerstick blood glucose testing for diabetes management. Dexcom generally advises patients on a few contraindications to its device use. A few to consider include:

  • No MRI/ICT/Diathermy

Comorbidities are common in people living with diabetes. It is commonplace to find people using Dexcom CGMs on treatment plans requiring magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (ST) scan, or high-frequency electrical heat (diartherma) treatment. Dexcom strongly advises users to remove their sensors before undergoing these tests. 

Dexcom CGMs are sensitive to strong electromagnetic fields and heat generated by these medical diagnostic devices. Electromagnetic field exposure may alter CGM readings, causing the sensor to malfunction and present inaccurate glucose readings. 

  • Some Medications Interfere with Dexcom Readings

Hydroxyurea and Acetaminophen interfere with the Dexcom G6 and G7 readings. Hydroxyurea, a medication indicated for the treatment of certain cancers and blood disorders, reportedly inflates CGM readings. Inflated blood glucose readings increase the risk of missed hypoglycemic situations.  

Acetaminophen doses higher than the maximum recommended adult dose of 1 gram every 6 hours may also inflate CGM readings. Dexcom advises patients to use only up to the maximum recommended dose to avoid such interference. The degree of medication interference on CGM accuracy varies from person to person. Dexcom CGM users on multiple medications should consult their healthcare providers for advice on possible interference between their sensors and medications. 

  • Special Populations

Dexcom G6 is contraindicated in pregnant women, critically ill patients, and patients on dialysis. It is unknown how these conditions may affect the performance of the Dexcom G6. The G7 is not contraindicated in pregnancy.

sensor comparison table

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Dexcom CGMs have changed the landscape of diabetes diagnosis and management globally, but they do come at a cost Price can also vary depending on insurance coverage and retail location. As of June 2024, the price of a Dexcom device  –including sensor, receiver, and transmitter – can range from $1,000 to several thousand dollars annually. 

Without insurance coverage, the Dexcom G6 costs between $150 to $200 for the sensor, $300 to $400 for the transmitter, and $600 to $700 for the receiver. Similarly, the Dexcom G7 costs between $140 to $160 for the sensor and $350 to $500 for the receiver. Depending on the package, the Dexcom G7 starter kit may cost between $800 to $950. 

Government funding policies covering CGM purchases may also influence the price of Dexcom devices. For instance, Medicaid and Medicare enrollees (if qualified) may get a CGM for free under different coverage packages. Beneficiaries under most commercial insurance packages may pay as low as $20 per month for a Dexcom device, This is possible if users leverage Dexcom savings and pharmacy coverage benefits.

Users may also leverage Pharmacy coupons to lower out-of-pocket expenses for a Dexcom device. For instance, GoodRx, a popular retail pharmacy chain lists coupons that may reduce the monthly cost of a Dexcom G6 to $170 and a Dexcom G7 to $180. Dexcom also offers patient assistance programs and Dexcom savings initiatives to US residents who meet specific eligibility criteria. 

Conclusion: Dexcom Sensors — Optimizing Diabetes Management

A 2023 research insight on the effectiveness of CGMs in managing uncontrolled diabetes is perhaps a worthy conclusion for this topic. Andrew Manov — an internal medicine expert in the United States — and a group of internal medicine residents observed how the transition from self-monitoring of blood glucose (SBMG) to CGMs impacted treatment outcomes in 25 diabetes patients. 

In their concluding remarks, the researchers admitted how CGM adoptions ‘significantly improved the participant’s glycemic Control’. Diabetes is a complicated disease and it’s potential microvascular, macrovascular, and neuropathy complications can be devastating. A comprehensive modern approach to managing it well requires multiple care inputs including active patient engagement, informed dietary restriction, prompt therapy interventions, and sustained glycemic control. These inputs (and many more) are what CGMs offers to support – a game-changing approach placing the patient at the center of therapy.   

1. https://idf.org/about-diabetes/diabetes-facts-figures/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34116789/
3. https://www.dexcom.com/clarity
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29923775/
5. https://www.dexcom.com/en-GB/blog/dexcom-g6-vs-dexcom-g7
6. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1093557/000119312523094128/d439095dars.pdf
7. https://www.january.ai/our-science
8. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/217549
9. https://www.dexcom.com/interference
10. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/diabetes-type-2/dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre
11. https://cgmmonitors.com/dexcom-g7-cost-without-insurance/
12. https://cgmmonitors.com/dexcom-g6-cost-without-insurance/
13. https://diatribe.org/diabetes-technology/how-navigate-cgm-insurance-coverage
14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10460137/
15. https://www.stelo.com/

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