Patients with diabetes can monitor their blood sugar levels using a blood glucose monitor or a continuous glucose monitor. Doctors are now prescribing a continuous glucose monitor for patients who constantly need to check their blood sugar levels during the day. CGMs are the best option for anyone who wants to track their readings consistently to develop an efficient treatment plan.

There have been substantial technological advancements in continuous glucose monitors recently. Major players in the market have developed reliable and efficient devices to help you monitor blood glucose levels. Here is our list of the best CGMs available in the market.

FreeStyle Libre

The FreeStyle Libre hit the market in 2017, and like other CGMs, it measures the glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. The device is worn on the upper arm. It has a flash system, meaning you must wave an accompanying monitor on the sensor to get the reading. You may repeat the process as often as possible to get as many readings as possible.

You will also need to reapply the sensor every 14 days. Some users have reported skin irritation when applying it. However, the best part about a FreeStyle Libre is that you will not need a fingerstick to keep track of your blood sugar levels.

Pros

  • Helpful in testing blood glucose levels throughout the day
  • It does not require fingersticks

Cons

  • It can irritate the skin around the sensor
  • It does not provide consistent reading, sometimes

Dexcom G6

The Dexcom G6 is a reliable and accurate CGM with a sensor on the abdomen. The sensor transmits information to a corresponding app you can download on your tablet, phone, or smartwatch. Most users love the Dexcom 6 since it can transmit data every 5 minutes. 

This CGM can complement other devices you may have for your diabetes management, including insulin pumps. However, there is a complaint that you must change the sensor every ten days, less than most CGMs in the market.

Pros

  • Can transmit readings every 5 minutes
  • Offers accurate and consistent readings
  • Works well with an insulin pump.

Cons

  • You will need to change the sensor more often.

Eversense

The Eversense CGM is applied at the doctor’s office, unlike other CGM you will find on this list. Like most CGM, the Eversence measures the sugar levels in the interstitial fluids and is placed on the upper arm. However, its sensor is implanted subcutaneously and can be worn for 90 days, which is more time than most CGMs.

Once the sensor is applied, it sends the data to an intelligent device every 5 minutes. It will alert you through a vibration alarm when your glucose falls from your ideal range. Some patients have expressed skin sensitivity when wearing the sensor in direct sunlight.

Pros

  • Transmits readings every 5 minutes
  • Have a discreet alarm vibration
  • You can wear the sensor for 90 days without having to change it.

Cons

  • You will require the help of a doctor to change the sensor
  • You may experience accurate alerts when exposed to direct sunlight

Guardian Connect System

The Guardian Connect System offers more detailed glucose tracking data. Like many CGMs, it is worn on the arm and measures glucose through the interstitial fluids. Unlike other CGMs in the market, it compiles time-in-range data. This means it will tell you how long your glucose levels are in the ideal range on any day.

However, one of its most significant drawbacks is that it is only available for children above 14. It is also more expensive than other CGMs, and you will need to pay for the systems and other parts, which are separately priced. On top of that, you will need to change its sensor every seven days.

Pros

  • Transmits readings every 5 minutes
  • Shows blood glucose range patterns throughout the day

Cons

  • Very expensive when compared to other CGMs
  • You will need to change the sensor every five days
  • It is not available for children under 14 years

Do you want to learn how to manage type 2 diabetes better? Visit Columbia Medical Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems (CGMS). We are experts in continuous glucose monitoring devices to help you manage Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes with no finger sticks!

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