About
Dexcom is a pioneer and global leader in Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, providing real-time glucose readings to people living with diabetes. Unlike traditional blood glucose meters that require repeated fingerstick tests, Dexcom's wearable sensors measure glucose levels continuously throughout the day and night, sending data wirelessly to a compatible smartphone, smartwatch, or dedicated receiver. Dexcom's product lineup includes the flagship Dexcom G7, the compact ONE and ONE+ systems, and the legacy G6 platform. Each system features exceptional accuracy, intuitive design, and customizable high/low glucose alerts that help users and caregivers respond quickly to changing glucose trends. Data is displayed in real time via the Dexcom app and can be shared with family members, caregivers, or healthcare providers through Dexcom Follow and Dexcom Clarity. Clinical studies confirm that Dexcom CGM use leads to lower HbA1c values and more time in the target glucose range, reducing the risk of dangerous hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic events. The system integrates with connected insulin delivery systems, making it suitable for people with Type 1 diabetes using automated insulin dosing, as well as individuals with Type 2 diabetes on basal insulin therapy. Dexcom is particularly valued by athletes, parents managing a child's diabetes, and anyone seeking tighter glucose control without the burden of constant manual testing.
Key Features
- Real-Time Glucose Readings: Continuously measures blood glucose levels and displays live readings on a compatible smartphone or smartwatch — no routine fingersticks required.
- Customizable Alerts: Configurable high and low glucose alarms notify users and caregivers of dangerous glucose trends before they become emergencies.
- Remote Sharing & Monitoring: Dexcom Follow and Dexcom Clarity allow family members, caregivers, and clinicians to remotely view glucose data in real time.
- Connected Insulin Delivery Integration: Dexcom G7 integrates with automated insulin dosing systems, enabling a closed-loop insulin management experience for Type 1 diabetes patients.
- Proven Clinical Outcomes: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm Dexcom CGM lowers HbA1c and increases time-in-range, improving long-term diabetes health outcomes.
Use Cases
- A person with Type 1 diabetes uses Dexcom G7 paired with an automated insulin pump to maintain tight glucose control without constant manual intervention.
- Parents of a child with diabetes rely on Dexcom Follow to monitor their child's glucose levels in real time during school hours and overnight.
- An endocrinologist reviews a patient's 90-day glucose trends in Dexcom Clarity before a clinic visit to adjust insulin therapy.
- A competitive athlete with Type 1 diabetes monitors real-time glucose on a smartwatch during training sessions to avoid hypoglycemia mid-workout.
- A person with Type 2 diabetes on basal insulin uses Dexcom CGM to understand how diet and activity affect glucose levels and improve daily management.
Pros
- No Routine Fingersticks: Eliminates the need for repeated manual blood draws, making glucose tracking far more comfortable and convenient for daily use.
- Clinically Proven Accuracy: Dexcom sensors are validated against rigorous accuracy standards, providing reliable data for informed treatment decisions.
- Seamless Smartwatch & App Integration: Glucose data flows directly to iOS and Android devices and compatible smartwatches, keeping readings accessible at a glance.
- Caregiver & Clinician Sharing: The Follow and Clarity platforms enable remote monitoring, giving peace of mind to parents, partners, and healthcare teams.
Cons
- Significant Ongoing Cost: Sensors and transmitters are recurring consumable expenses that can be costly without adequate insurance coverage.
- Occasional Fingerstick Confirmation Needed: When symptoms do not match CGM readings, a traditional fingerstick test is still required before making treatment decisions.
- Smartphone Dependency: Full functionality — including smartwatch display — requires carrying a compatible smartphone, which may not suit all users.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Dexcom CGM work?
A small sensor is inserted just under the skin and continuously measures glucose in the interstitial fluid. A transmitter sends readings wirelessly every 5 minutes to a compatible smartphone, receiver, or smartwatch.
Do I still need to do fingerstick tests with Dexcom?
Routine fingersticks are not required. However, a fingerstick confirmation is recommended when your symptoms do not match the CGM reading before making treatment decisions.
What is the difference between Dexcom G7 and Dexcom ONE?
Dexcom G7 is the most advanced system, offering the smallest combined sensor-transmitter, faster warm-up, and integration with automated insulin delivery. Dexcom ONE and ONE+ are simpler options designed for people who need reliable CGM without advanced connectivity features.
Can caregivers or family members see my glucose data?
Yes. Through the Dexcom Follow app, up to 10 followers can receive real-time glucose readings and alerts on their own smartphones, enabling remote monitoring by parents, partners, or caregivers.
Is Dexcom compatible with insulin pumps?
Dexcom G7 integrates with several connected insulin delivery systems to enable automated closed-loop insulin dosing. Check dexcom.com/compatibility for the full list of compatible devices.
