Device Finder - Dexcom Stelo vs Dexcom G6

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Summary

Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter. This sensor lasts for up to 15 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.

*Recently FDA approved for people 18 years or older with type 2 diabetes. Expected availability is summer 2024.

MARD of 9.2%

This sensor lasts for 10 days and only needs finger sticks as a backup. Dexcom G6 has 3 parts - sensor, transmitter, and receiver. Data can be viewed on a compatible mobile device or a separate receiver. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system.

FDA approved for insertion on the abdomen (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years).

MARD of 9%

Components

N/A

Dexcom G6 : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5 minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

Sends readings from sensor to device, clips into sensor. Can be used for 90 days.

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Receives data automatically from the transmitter. Can be substituted by compatible smartphone and smartwatch. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Pricing is to be announced in summer 2024. Price expected to be low to allow for over the counter distribution.

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Price range; $0-$500/month.

Data Monitoring Options

To Be Announced

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.

Data View Options

To Be Announced

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom Clarity apps to view and share data. Both apps provide multiple data views, sharing options, and access through the clinician portal using a code from the user's device. Caregivers can use the Dexcom Follow app to view data. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data.

Duration and Storage

15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days, and transmitters last 90 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors and 1 transmitter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text-to-speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Waterproof when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device. This device is intended to help people with non-insulin requiring type 2 diabetes better understand their blood sugar numbers.

Water-resistant when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Very limited alerts. This device does not provide alarms and alerts for high, low, and rise/fall rates. This device is intended to track and understand the effects of food on blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.

Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.

Comfort

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

No options. Stelo is intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes who do not require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels.

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Easy to Use