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Want your numbers at a glance with less pricking? Wearing sensor lets you do just that. You can easily see if your blood sugar is trending up or down, and on some models, get alerts if your blood sugar goes too high or too low. Injections are the most basic way of getting your insulin.

Get a Sensor Guide

Wisdom from others using a Sensor & Injections

Michael

I know that devices are getting better and I want to give myself every opportunity to live as long and healthy as possible.

Michael

Consultant, father, lobbyist
James

It was kind of like a weight lifted off my shoulders because I didn’t have to worry about doing all that stuff anymore. I was able to just test my sugar, put in the carbs I'm eating, and that was it.

James

Sports enthusiast, history lover
Group+3+1

It gave me so much relief to know that all I had to do was wave that little monitor over the sensor and it would just tell me what my sugars were.

Rosemary

Budget analyst

Routine

After 48 years I still hate taking shots. There is still a micro-moment of anxiety before I inject. But, I prefer that to having the pump hanging off me with that tubing.

Julie, 50

Daily
Test blood sugar as needed to calibrate sensors or check between sensor sessions. Look at the sensor value if you feel low or high, or an alert goes off. It is best to calibrate in the morning or when your blood sugar is not rising or falling quickly.
Long and short acting injections. Still gotta do 'em.
Weekly
Change sensor. CGM sensors can be worn for 6-10 days, but some people extend it to longer by restarting the sensor session. The sensor values become more accurate the first 24 hours after insertion, once the sensor has adjusted.
3 Months
Order new sensor packs. Some CGM companies and suppliers make it easy to re-order a 3-month supply online or over the phone, which get shipped to your door. Other sensors are able to be picked up at your local pharmacy. It's rare, but if a sensor rips off or gets damaged - you can call to get a free replacement.
6 Months
Some types of CGM transmitters run out of battery after a certain amount of time, and you'll need to order a replacement before your last one dies.

Costs

Doctors know how great a tool the cgm is so they are always ready to help work with insurance companies and the manufacturer.

Lolly, 30

CGMs can be expensive, but are often partly covered by insurance. Most people feel that they buy you peace of mind and convenience. Injections are the cheapest way to get your insulin, so this CGM + injections combo is a mid-range price.

Insurance

Dealing with insurance is tough, but you can do it! Check out our How To Get It Guide to get the basics straight and understand what youll need to get approved.

Pros

Fewer Finger Pricks

Sensors check your blood sugar every few minutes. You only need to prick your finger one to two times per day to calibrate your sensor, or to verify questionable sensor readings.

Prevention

Prevent lows and highs before they happen. The CGM shows you which direction your blood sugar is headed and how fast. Some brands will alarm during the day or night, to let you know when you have a low or high blood sugar.

Balance Cost and Technology

The CGM makes a big difference in blood sugar control. Injections are the most affordable way to deliver insulin.

Cons

Alerts and Alarms

These can be overwhelming and sometimes unhelpful. You can silence or turn them off if you need a break.

Manual Effort

You still have to give injections throughout the day, and the CGM alone doesn't help you calculate doses based on carbs and blood sugar.