Continuous Glucose Monitoring Dexcom G6

Brand Reputation And User Reviews

Based on customer reviews from consumer sites like the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot, people are generally satisfied with the Dexcom G6. They find that it helps them improve and manage their glucose levels. The most common complaints are those relating to customer service, insurance claims, and deliveries.

Many online reviewers say the Dexcom G6 is extremely reliable and accurate. But others report the transmitters do not always last the full 90 days and sensors also fail early before the full 10 days.

As a result, a common complaint is having to spend a lot of time contacting Dexcoms technical support, either by phone, text, or online, to get a replacement sensor sent within 3 to 5 days.

Users often share the following tips for the G6:

• Make sure youre hydrated to ensure better glucose data and sensor reliability.
• Use some nasal allergy spray on your skin and a medical adhesive wipe to prepare for insertion. This helps avoid skin irritation and keeps the sensor on longer.
• Even though you can enter fingersticks to calibrate the G6, its not required. Entering multiple results in a short period of time can cause the CGM to get confused. Wait at least 30 minutes if it loses a signal or is trying to recalculate your glucose levels to see whether it can re-establish a solid connection with accurate data.

Guardian Connect By Medtronic

The Guardian Connect by Medtronic offers reports showing trends in glucose levels. Users can view these on their mobile device and share them with healthcare professionals.

The device also predicts when glucose levels may become too high or too low, so people can proactively manage their diabetes.

Users need to change the Guardian Connect sensor every 6 days, although the transmitter is rechargeable.

The Guardian Connect is reportedly Medtronics most accurate sensor, with a MARD of 8.7%.

• examining the feet to help reduce diabetes complications involving the feet
• taking daily medication to manage diabetes, such as oral or injectable medications
• performing at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week
• following a balanced diet that helps stabilize blood sugar levels

People with type 2 diabetes should also consider switching to a low carbohydrate or keto diet. Doing so could potentially reverse the condition and restore healthy insulin levels.

A healthcare professional can also assist a person in proactively managing their condition. A doctor can draw up an achievable and effective personalized plan for diet and exercise. Doctors can also tailor and adapt treatment plans and medications according to trends in a persons glucose levels.

Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about the Dexcom G6.

Science & Innovation Webinar

Webinar Recorded on Nov. 17, 2020 Sponsored by Dexcom

Advances in the Dexcom G6 technology are an important CGM differentiator that allows for improved safety, glycemic management and telehealth opportunities for persons 2 years and older through the use of real-time CGM data with features such as a predictive Urgent Low Soon alert, customizable high/low glycemic threshold alerts, remote monitoring and the CLARITY diabetes management application.

Join expert faculty as they discuss:

• Dexcom CGM features that are available to patients and providers
• How Dexcom CGM can help to optimize diabetes management without increasing cognitive burden
• Utilization of different Dexcom CGM features in real-world data
• The relationship between patient engagement and time in optimal glycemic range , hypoglycemia, and glycemic variability
• Does the use of Dexcom CGM features lead to improved patient outcomes?
• Telehealth opportunities with Dexcom CGM and CLARITY application to provide cloud based reporting and relevant insights into users’ retrospective glucose values, patterns, and trends over time.

Expert Faculty:

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How Accurate Is The Dexcom G6

The standard measurement of CGM performance is known as the mean absolute relative difference . With this measure, the lower the number, the better the accuracy.

Clinical data for the Dexcom G6 shows it has a MARD of 9 percent with sustained accuracy over the time a sensor is worn. That puts it ahead of all its direct competitors.

However, individual users experiences may vary. Many people who have used both the Dexcom G6 and Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 report comparable accuracy.

How It Tracks Glucose

The sensor uses a transmitter to send data wirelessly to a compatible iOS or Android smart device. People can attach the transmitter by inserting the transmitter tab into the slot.

After 2 hours, the mobile app will begin displaying a persons glucose results on a graph. The graph indicates to people when their glucose levels are high or low, alongside an arrow showing the direction of these levels. The display features up to 24 hours of data at once.

Users can also see their real-time glucose levels, and the app will alert users when their glucose levels are low.

Below is some additional information about the Dexcom G6.

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How Long Does The Dexcom G6 Device Last

You can wear the Dexcom G6 CGM on your body for up to 10 days before needing to replace the sensor. However, you may lose the Bluetooth data signal at times.

The sensor can also fail early before that 10-day wear time is finished.

The Dexcom G6 uses a separate transmitter that clicks into each sensor on your body, and the transmitter lasts for 90 days.

Getting Accurate Blood Sugar Readings From Your Dexcom G6

For the first 2 weeks of using the sensor, you should check your childs blood sugar with a glucose meter anytime a high or low alert goes off. This will help ensure you arecomfortable with how the sensor is working.

For lifetime use of the Dexcom G6:

• Always check your childs blood sugar with a fingerstick if their symptoms are not consistent with the Dexcom G6 sensor reading.
• A fingerstick blood glucose meter reading should be used to make insulin dose decisions if the Dexcom G6 is not showing both a glucose reading and a directional arrow.
• Do a fingerstick blood glucose if the CGM reading is not rising 20 minutes after treating a low.

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Stay Up To Date With Dexcom

BRIEF SAFETY STATEMENT Failure to use the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System and its components according to the instructions for use provided with your device and available at and to properly consider all indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and cautions in those instructions for use may result in you missing a severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia occurrence and/or making a treatment decision that may result in injury. If your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations or youre taking over the recommended maximum dosage amount of 1000mg of acetaminophen every 6 hours, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions. Seek medical advice and attention when appropriate, including for any medical emergency.

Dexcom, Dexcom Follow, Dexcom CLARITY, and Dexcom Share are registered trademarks of Dexcom, Inc. in the U.S., and may be registered in other countries.

LBL020040 Rev003

We Tried The Dexcom G6

Personally, I have found the Dexcom G6 to be accurate and helpful when it keeps working as it should. Often, my G6 sensors fail after 5 to 6 days, so I only get about half the use time Im due.

A real life-changer is the Urgent Low Glucose predictive alert that lets me know when Im going to cross the threshold of 55 mg/dL in the next 20 minutes. Knowing ahead of time means I can take action before crashing into a dangerous low.

Also, the redesigned auto-inserters make it so much easier to insert a new sensor by myself, single-handed. The older G4 and G5 inserters were described by some as a harpoon, whereas its rare to see users complaining about pain with the G6 inserter. But for me, the larger bulkier size of this new applicator is a bummer because I cant just toss it into my homemade sharps containers like I could with the older, thin sensor devices.

There are several other CGM systems on the market that are similar to the Dexcom G6. Here are some to consider:

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Discover The Dexcom G6 Cgm System

Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Now Available Through Tricare Pharmacy Benefit

• Beginning mid-April, TRICARE® members will have faster and more convenient access to the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System
• Dexcom G6 will be available as a brand-name formulary pharmacy benefit to military members, retirees and their families

SAN DIEGO April 12, 2022 DexCom, Inc. , the global leader in real-time continuous glucose monitoring for people with diabetes, announced today that the Dexcom G6 CGM System will be available to military members, their families and retirees with diabetes as a TRICARE® brand-name formulary pharmacy benefit.

Effective mid-April 2022, members with diabetes will be eligible for a Dexcom G6 through the military treatment facility pharmacies at zero copayment, the TRICARE® retail pharmacy network at a $38 copayment per 30-day supply or through the mail order/home delivery at a copayment of $34 per 90-day supply.* Previously, Dexcom G6 was available through the TRICARE® medical benefit by durable medical equipment suppliers where copayment amounts could vary depending on the plan. The pharmacy benefit provides a faster process and more consistent copayments for members.

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Better Manage Your Type 1 Or Type 2 Diabetes With The Dexcom G6 Cgm System

Freestyle Libre 2 By Abbott

The Freestyle Libre 2 by Abbott offers 14-day wearable tracking for adults and children as young as 4 years of age. It also features optional glucose alarms to let users know when their glucose levels are too high or too low.

The device allows users to:

• scan through their clothing
• monitor individual glucose trends
• access their glucose levels via the dedicated reader or their mobile device.

According to the manufacturer of the product, the Freestyle Libre 2 has a MARD of 9.3%.

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Which Other Devices Does Dexcom G6 Work With

When the FDA approved the G6 in 2018, the agency created a brand-new category of device that it refers to as iCGM, or integrated CGM a system designed to connect directly with other compatible devices, such as a smartphone, insulin pump, or other wearable device.

Devices that currently work with the Dexcom G6 include the latest Omnipod tubeless insulin pump and the tubed Tandem t:slim X2 insulin pump with Basal-IQ and Control-IQ closed loop features.

Not sure whether your device is compatible with Dexcom G6? You can check that out here.

Whats exciting is that the future Dexcom G7 model will have even more advanced features and integration with automated diabetes management systems.

How Much Does It Cost

A large array of private insurers in the United States cover Dexcom CGMs. As of mid-2022, Medicare covers the Dexcom G6 as well.

Of course, benefits vary by plan, so youll need to check with yours. Just remember that youll need a prescription for the G6 transmitter as well as the box of sensors, so youll have to work with a healthcare professional before purchasing.

Until spring 2021, Dexcom sold its systems and supplies directly via its website. But the company now works with distributors like Edgepark for online ordering.

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Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Now Covered In Manitoba For Young People With Type 1 Diabetes

• Dexcom CGM use is proven to improve glycemic control1,2and can reduce the risk of costly long-term diabetes-related complications compared to fingerstick monitoring.3

BURNABY, British Columbia —-Sep. 29, 2021– Dexcom, Inc. , a global leader in real-time continuous glucose monitoring , is happy to share that people with type 1 diabetes who are 25 years of age or under may now be eligible for provincial coverage of the Dexcom G6 CGM System through Manitoba Health

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here:

The Dexcom G6 CGM System is now covered by Manitoba Health for people 25 years of age or under living with type 1 diabetes.

Manitoba and Quebec in offering public coverage of CGM systems under provincial health plans. The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program also recently announced coverage for First Nations and Inuit children. With expanded public coverage for CGM, more people can access this technology which has become a new standard of care, helping them to manage a life-long chronic illness.

We are so pleased to see more and more provinces demonstrating their commitment to improving the health of people with diabetes. We know that when diabetes management is made easier through real-time CGM and data-sharing, the person living with diabetes and their entire circle of care can benefit, says Laura Endres , Senior Vice President and General Manager of Dexcom Canada.

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References

Take The Next Step With Dexcom

Please note the form below is only intended for new customers.

*If your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions.

For a list of compatible devices, visit www.dexcom.com/compatibility.

1. Shah VN, et al. Diabetes Technol Ther 2018 20:428-33.

2. Beck, RW, et al. JAMA. 2017 317:371-378.

3. Welsh, JB et al. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2019 21:128-32.

BRIEF SAFETY STATEMENT Failure to use the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System and its components according to the instructions for use provided with your device and available at https://www.dexcom.com/safety-information and to properly consider all indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and cautions in those instructions for use may result in you missing a severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia occurrence and/or making a treatment decision that may result in injury. If your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations or youre taking over the recommended maximum dosage amount of 1000mg of acetaminophen every 6 hours, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions. Seek medical advice and attention when appropriate, including for any medical emergency.

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Who Is The Dexcom G6 For

The Dexcom G6 may benefit people who want to consistently monitor their glucose levels. This may include people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or prediabetes. Using a CGM system negates the need for standard finger prick testing, which can be both invasive and cumbersome.

The product may be particularly useful for caregivers of children and teenagers with diabetes, as it allows them to monitor a childs glucose levels and safeguard their health more effectively.

For example, a 2020 randomized clinical trial found that continuous CGM systems offered a small but statistically significant improvement in glycemic control in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes.

However, it is important to note that the studys researchers disclosed conflicts of interest. To conduct the study, the scientists received grants, fees, and nonfinancial support from Dexcom and other companies and institutions.

The Dexcom G6 may not be suitable for people with severe diabetes. Many reviews on TrustPilot report large inaccuracies between readings with the Dexcom G6 device and more standard finger prick tests.

The benefits of the Dexcom G6 include:

• negating the need for finger prick tests
• offering consistent glucose monitoring
• compatibility with iOS and Android
• offering the ability to share data with up to 10 people, including health professionals
• a 1-year warranty
• coverage by some insurance providers

The drawbacks of the Dexcom G6 include:

Who Should Use Cgm

Patient selection is a key component of successful CGM use. The Endocrine Society recommends CGM for adults with type 1 diabetes who have A1C levels above 7% and who have shown they can use these devices nearly every day. Some devices are also approved for children over age 2 with a healthcare provider’s prescription.

It’s crucial to understand CGM technology in order to reap the maximum benefit. The intermittent use of CGM may be appropriate for people with overnight hypoglycemia or hypoglycemic unawarenessan inability to recognize the signs of dips in blood sugar levels that can be dangerous if not dealt with immediately.

It may also be beneficial for people who are on tight blood sugar control, also known as intensive insulin therapy.

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How Do I Use My Childs Dexcom G6

The guidelines below will help you use your childs Dexcom G6 in order to make decisions about their insulin dosing using the current glucose values and how they are changing. Youll do this by looking at the current glucose value, the direction of the arrows, and the number of arrows that are displayed on the Dexcom G6.

To use your Dexcom G6 for insulin dosing, do the following:

• You can calibrate using a fingerstick blood glucose to ensure the accuracy of the sensor, but this is not required
• Look at the current glucose on the Dexcom G6
• Look at the arrows, which indicate glucose rate of change
• Determine what the expected blood sugar is based on the arrows and the current reading