DexcomG6
v go device

Summary

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%

V-Go is a convenient credit card-size patch pump that adheres to the skin and can be worn for 24 hours. This system is designed to be used with fast-acting insulin for people with type 2 diabetes who require 20, 30, or 40 units of insulin per day. Users can administer two units of insulin with every press of a button on the device. This device is a hybrid between injections and an insulin pump to allow for discreet dosing without the need for programming or multiple injections. 

FDA-approved for people 21 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes.

Components

Dexcom G6 : Sensor

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

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

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

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

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

V-Go Patch : Patch

V-Go Patch : Patch

Wearable insulin patches come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied on the abdomen.

Device Details

Overview

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

Convenient, discreet, and simple use. 

Affordability and Access

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

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $0-$250/Month.

Data Monitoring Options

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.

No Options

Data View Options

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. 

No Options

Duration and Storage

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

24-Hours 
Patch can be worn for up to 24 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

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

Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is water-resistant. 

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

Comfort

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing, but it must be worn in areas that are easy to reach for insulin dosing. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Simple with few steps. 24-hour bolus range: up to 36 units per 24 hours, doses in 2-unit increments. Preset basal rate of 20, 30, or 40 units per 24 hours.

Easy to Use

Flexible pump integration. Can be paired with multiple different types of pumps which gives flexibility for how to use the data.

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 24-hours with insulin administered at the click of a button. 

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Frequent finger-sticks are required.

Privacy

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. Bolus button can be used discreetly through clothing.