Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems

Dexcom is a line of FDA-approved continuous glucose monitors (CGM) designed for people with type 1 diabetes as well as those with type 2 diabetes who are required to check blood sugar levels regularly. 

Unlike standard blood glucose meters, Dexcom does not rely on calibration with painful fingersticks. Instead, a small, water-resistant sensor is inserted just beneath the skin of the torso where it can measure blood glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. Glucose data is then transmitted to a reader or smart device (apple, android, etc.) 

Patients can wear a Dexcom sensor for up to 10 days for consistent blood sugar readings. There is no need to remove the sensor during showering or exercising. With CGM, your blood sugar levels are measured consistently and accurately without fingersticks. Instead of a handful of data points a day, you'll have dozens of blood glucose readings to review and share whenever you choose.

This CGM system is similar to the Dexcom G5 but comes with lots of additional features. These include factory calibration, a one-touch applicator, and a low-profile design. 

The Dexcom G6 sensor is water-resistant and easy to insert and wear. The G6 transmitter sends data every 5 minutes as well. The G6 also includes an acetaminophen blocking feature, designed especially for those who take acetaminophen frequently and don't want to risk skewing their glucose readings. 

There is also an Urgent Low Soon alert, which can alert patients in advance of a severe hypoglycemia event, allowing time to take action. This can be helpful for patients who don't experience typical warning signs that such an event may be coming on. In addition to this alert, and with input from their healthcare professional, patients can customize their target range. This way, when glucose levels are above or below that range, the patient receives an alert.

The Dexcom G6 has even been cleared to use as part of an integrated continuous glucose monitoring system (iCGM). This means it can communicate with digital devices like automated insulin pumps. While many people will not need this feature as part of a diabetes management plan, the G6 is a robust tool that is compatible with a wide variety of devices.

The Dexcom G7 is the latest CGM from Dexcom and is the most accurate CGM on the market. The system comes with three parts: The sensor, overpatch, and optional receiver.

The discreet and slim G7 sensor is 60% smaller than the G6 sensor, and can be worn on the back of the upper arm. The sensor sends glucose readings every 5 minutes in real-time for convinient diabetes management. The G7 overpatches provide a secure fit for the sensor for longer wear. The Dexcom G7 Receiver is an optional part of the CGM system; this small and portable device dispalys glucose readings as they are transmitted by the sensor. There are four different customizable alert settings. Users can also pair their smartphones or smartwatches to the Dexcom G7 app to receive glucose readings and alerts. 

The Dexcom G7 system is user-friendly, with a 1-button insertion process for the sensor, and a small, discreet profile. It is also waterproof and can be worn during activities such as swimming or showering. The G7 sensor is intended to be worn for up to 10 days before it needs to be replaced, with a 12-hour grace period at the end, and it does not require routine fingerstick calibrations.

Medicare or commercial insurance may cover the cost of a Dexcom CGM system for diabetics whose insulin dosing regimen requires frequent adjustment. Your doctor will determine which continuous glucose monitoring system would work best for your individual diabetes care plan. Aeroflow will then coordinate between your doctor and your insurance provider to get your CGM device covered.

An app is not required to use Dexcom G6; it's possible to rely solely on the included reader with touchscreen. However, many people like the convenience of reviewing real-time glucose data on their smartphone, smartwatch, or other iOS or Android device. The Dexcom G6 app is available on the Apple App Store as well as Google Play. Additional apps include the Dexcom Follow app, which allows sharing of glucose data with up to 10 other people, and Dexcom Clarity, which is a diabetes management app that allows you to view data. 

The Dexcom G7 app is also available through the Apple App Store and Google Play and can be paired with smartphones or smartwatches.

Only your doctor can determine the best CGM system for you based on your diabetes management plan and individual needs. Some people who live with diabetes may not want or need some of the advanced features included in a Dexcom G7, including glucose alerts or integration into automated insulin dosing (AID) systems. In this case, the FreeStyle Libre system line by Abbott Diabetes Care may be a good option.

Aeroflow Diabetes can help you receive the blood glucose monitoring system you need if you qualify through insurance.

Want to see if you’re eligible? Follow this simple process.

Step 1. Fill out our Eligibility Form with your insurance information.

Step 2. A Diabetes Specialist will verify your insurance coverage and send all of the paperwork necessary.

Step 3. Once you qualify, you’ll be able to choose the supplies your insurance covers from a curated shopping list.

Step 4. Your supplies will be shipped directly to your home, and each month following, we’ll send you reminders when it’s time to reorder.