medtronic receiver v2
stelo sensor

Summary

The Medtronic Guardian Connect is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that provides real-time glucose data on a compatible smartphone. The system offers optional low and high blood sugar notifications and can be inserted on the abdomen or back of the upper arm.

 

MARD of 9.6%

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% 

Components

Guardian Connect : Sensor

Guardian Connect : Sensor

Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. Push buttons applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Guardian Connect : Transmitter

Guardian Connect : Transmitter

Seashell-shaped with built-in Bluetooth capability that allows it to send glucose data directly to a smartphone every 5 minutes.

Guardian Connect : Receiver

Guardian Connect : Receiver

Trends and alerts are viewed directly on a mobile device. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

N/A

Device Details

Overview

One of the larger sensors, may be cumbersome to wear on some parts of the body under clothes.

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

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Sometimes covered. The costs vary depending on individual insurance coverage and how insurance classifies CGMs. Price range $0-$600/month.

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

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
CGM data can be linked to a CareLink account and shared with the user's health care team. 

To Be Announced 

Data View Options

Yes
The Guardian Connect mobile app allows users to view glucose levels, trends, create customizable alerts, and share blood glucose data with family and friends. 

To Be Announced 

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days, and transmitter battery needs weekly charging and replacement once a year. Both can be stored between 36°F - 86°F.

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

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES 
vibration alerts
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 transmitter when submerged in up to 2.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and must be within 20 feet of a connected mobile device.  

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. 

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Measures sensor glucose 24/7 and sends alerts when a high or low is detected. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

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.

Comfort

More tape is needed for Medtronic sensors.

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.

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

Easy to Use

Rechargeable sensor transmitter but has the most steps to change sensor.

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Fewer Fingersticks

2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.

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

Privacy

Somewhat discreet. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor requires regular meter use.

Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing.