Reviewing Features of the New Dexcom G7 and Libre 3 CGMs
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are devices worn on the body to monitor blood sugar levels consistently. CGMs have become increasingly popular over the years and are helpful in monitoring and managing blood sugars. People with diabetes often prefer CGMs since they usually do not require finger sticks and provide a sensor glucose reading every few minutes.
Meet the newest CGM models
It feels like we were just being introduced to the Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre 2, and now we are already onto the newest generation of CGMs.
The Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre 3 are now available, and they keep getting better and better! If you are considering a continuous glucose monitor or upgrading your current sensor, below are answers to commonly asked questions regarding the newest CGMs to hit the market.
What's new about the Dexcom G7?
The Dexcom G7 CGM was made available in February 2023. Although the maximum wear time is 10 days, the G7 provides a 12-hour added grace period. The G7 is not yet integrated with insulin pumps or other smart devices.
Some upgraded features of the Dexcom G7 include:1
- 60 percent smaller than the Dexcom G6
- 30-minute warm-up time compared to 2-hour warm-up
- The sensor and transmitter are combined (allows easier insertion)
- Improved accuracy
The new Dexcom G7 has an 8.2 percent mean absolute relative difference (MARD) in adults and 8.1 percent in children. A lower MARD indicates a more accurate CGM. Comparatively, the MARD of the Dexcom G6 was 9 percent.1
Who can use the Dexcom G7?
The Dexcom G7 CGM can be used by people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.1
Where can it be worn?
The Dexcom G7 is worn on the back of the upper arm and the abdomen in adults. In children ages 2 to 6, the monitor is worn on the upper buttocks.1
How much does the Dexcom G7 cost?
The Dexcom G7 can be ordered through retail pharmacies or durable medical equipment companies.
The cost and coverage of the device will vary depending on health insurance plans. Usually, Medicare covers some expenses for individuals who meet specific criteria.
For more information about cost and coverage, visit Dexcom's savings center.
What's new about the FreeStyle Libre 3?
The FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM was made available in October 2022. The Libre 3 is approved for 14 days of wear on the back of the arm. The Libre 3 is not yet integrated with insulin pumps or other smart devices.2,3
It is only approved on compatible mobile devices. (That is, it does not offer a handheld reader option.) However, some upgraded features of the Libre 3 include:2,3
- Smaller than Libre 2, about the size of 2 stacked pennies
- 1-piece applicator (allows easier insertion)
- The sensor and applicator are combined
- Does not require scanning to see sensor glucose reading
The new Libre 3 has a 7.9 percent MARD in adults and 8.1 percent in children. Comparatively, the MARD of the Libre 2 was 9.2 percent.2,3
Who can use the Libre 3?
The FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM is approved for use in people ages 4 and older with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.3
How much does the Libre 3 cost?
The cost of the Libre 3 varies between insurance plans. For more information on price and coverage, please visit FreeStyle Libre's cost page.
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