From the Guidelines
The best continuous glucose monitor currently available is the Dexcom G7 rtCGM, which offers excellent accuracy, reliability, and user-friendly features, as evidenced by the most recent guidelines from 2025 1. When considering a continuous glucose monitor, several factors come into play, including accuracy, ease of use, sensor life, and compatibility with other devices. The Dexcom G7 rtCGM stands out for its real-time glucose readings, lack of requirement for fingerstick calibrations, and integration capabilities with other digitally connected devices, such as automated insulin delivery (AID) systems.
Some key points to consider when selecting a CGM include:
- Insurance coverage and cost
- Smartphone compatibility for data sharing and alerts
- Need for integration with an insulin pump or other diabetes management devices
- Sensor life and replacement costs
- User interface and ease of use
Other notable options include the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and the Eversense E3, both of which are FDA approved for use with AID systems 1. However, the choice of CGM should be individualized based on a patient's specific needs, lifestyle, and budget, and made in consultation with a healthcare provider. The use of CGMs has been shown to improve glucose control and quality of life for individuals with diabetes, particularly those on insulin therapy, by providing valuable insights into glucose trends and patterns 1.
In terms of specific features, the Dexcom G7 rtCGM offers real-time glucose readings, customizable alerts, and data sharing capabilities, making it a strong choice for many users. Ultimately, the selection of a CGM should prioritize the device that best supports the individual's diabetes management goals and lifestyle, with consideration of the latest evidence and guidelines 1.
From the Research
Overview of Continuous Glucose Monitors
- Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems have been shown to be effective in managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus 2.
- CGM provides detailed information about glycaemic variability, enabling more informed decision making for users and clinicians 2.
Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitors
- CGM has been associated with reduced glycated haemoglobin and hypoglycaemia, and increased time in range for people with type 1 diabetes 2, 3.
- CGM can improve diabetes-related satisfaction and quality of life for people with diabetes and their families 2, 3.
- Real-time CGM systems, such as the Dexcom G6, have been shown to be accurate and reliable in non-critically ill hospitalized patients with diabetes 4.
Cost-Effectiveness of Continuous Glucose Monitors
- CGM has been found to be a cost-effective adjunct to type 1 diabetes management, associated with reduced diabetes-related complications and hospitalization 2, 5.
- The Dexcom G6 real-time CGM system has been shown to be cost-effective compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose and flash glucose monitoring in people with type 1 diabetes in Australia 5.
Comparison of Different Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
- Different CGM systems have been compared in terms of accuracy, utilization, and effectiveness, with some systems showing higher accuracy and utilization rates than others 6.
- The choice of CGM system may depend on individual patient needs and preferences, as well as the specific features and benefits of each system 6.