Updated 9/9/24
Dexcom Stelo Expands CGM Access for More People with Type 2 Diabetes
Arguably one of the most important advances in diabetes management in recent years has been continuous glucose monitoring. Up until now, it’s been difficult for people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or those not on insulin to get CGM covered by insurance. Thanks to the FDA’s recent approval of Dexcom Stelo – a CGM that can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription – many more people with type 2 diabetes will now be able to benefit from invaluable CGM technology.
What Is Dexcom Stelo?
Dexcom Stelo is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system designed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition more effectively. Unlike traditional methods that require frequent finger sticks, Dexcom Stelo offers real-time glucose readings through a small sensor worn on the body. This sensor continuously measures glucose levels and sends the data to a smartphone or dedicated receiver, allowing users to track their glucose trends and make informed decisions about their diet, exercise, and insulin therapy. The Dexcom Stelo system is a valuable resource for anyone looking to take better control of their diabetes.
How Stelo Is Different from Other CGMs
Stelo is cleared for use in people 18 and older who are not on insulin and who do not have problematic hypoglycemia. The Stelo sensor is worn on the back of the upper arm and sends blood sugar readings directly to a smartphone, measuring, recording, analyzing and displaying glucose values and trends every 15 minutes (as opposed to every 5 minutes like other CGMs). The device is built on the Dexcom G7 platform, but it does not have alerts and alarms like the G7, and each sensor is made to last up to 15 days rather than 10.
What Is the Difference Between the Dexcom G7 and Stelo?
The primary difference between the G7 and Stelo is the G7 has advanced and customizable alerts and alarms for high and low blood sugar, so it’s geared to people on insulin who experience hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia on a regular basis. The primary focus of Stelo is to provide insights into how factors such as nutrition and exercise affect blood sugars and diabetes management.
Dexcom G7
- Approved for all diabetes types
- Approved for ages 2+
- Pump Integration: Integrates with several insulin pumps and pens
- Connectivity: Dexcom G7 receiver, iOS and Android, direct to Apple watch, compatible with various digital health apps
- Sensor Lifespan: 10 days with 12-hour grace period
- Alerts and Alarms: Customizable alerts and alarms
- Wear Location: Approved for wear on the back of the upper arm
- App: Dexcom Clarity App with connectivity to healthcare professionals
- Follow/Share: Up to 10 people can follow in circle of support
- Prescription Requirements: A prescription is needed from a healthcare provider
- Insurance: Covered by many types of insurance including Medicare
Dexcom Stelo
- Approved for people with type 2 diabetes who are not on insulin
- Approved for adults 18+
- Pump Integration: No
- Connectivity: Full information not released yet, but it will be compatible with various digital health apps
- Sensor Lifespan: 15 days
- Alerts and Alarms: There will be notifications about glucose excursions, but no alarms for urgent action to be taken for someone on insulin
- Wear Location: Approved for wear on the back of the upper arm
- App: Stelo has a unique app designed specifically for Stelo users
- Follow/Share: Information not released yet
- Prescription Requirements: Available over-the-counter without a prescription. It will initially be available for purchase online and shipped directly to customers.
- Insurance: Not yet covered by insurance.
The Benefits of CGM Technology in Type 2 Diabetes
CGM technology offers numerous benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, transforming how they manage their condition. Continuous glucose monitoring plays a vital role in managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, helping people improve their time in range, A1c, and overall quality of life. Dexcom Stelo detects normal, low, and high blood sugar levels 24/7, helping people better understand how food, exercise, and other lifestyle factors impact their blood sugar and blood sugar management. Dexcom’s Stelo is another huge advancement in empowering more people with diabetes to take better control of their health. For more insights on the importance of CGMs, you can watch this video from Drs. E+P on why type 2s need a CGM.
Here are the key advantages:
Real-Time Glucose Monitoring
CGM systems provide continuous, real-time glucose readings throughout the day and night. This allows people to monitor glucose levels without the need for finger sticks.
Better Glycemic Control
With continuous feedback on glucose levels, people can make timely adjustments to diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications as needed.
Trend Analysis
CGM devices track glucose trends over time, offering insights into how different foods, activities, and medications impact blood sugar levels. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about diabetes management.
Improved A1c Levels
Regular use of CGM technology has been shown to help lower A1c levels, which can help to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and neuropathy.
Enhanced Quality of Life
By reducing the need for multiple daily finger sticks and providing continuous insights into glucose levels, CGM technology can alleviate some of the burdens associated with diabetes management, which can lead to improved quality of life and greater confidence in managing the condition.
Integration with Other Health Tools
Many CGM systems integrate with smartphones, fitness trackers, and other health management apps, providing a comprehensive approach to diabetes management.
Support for Healthcare Providers
CGM data can be shared with healthcare providers, allowing for more accurate and personalized treatment plans. This collaborative approach helps in fine-tuning diabetes management strategies.
Proactive Diabetes Management
With continuous feedback on various factors that impact blood sugar, CGMs help people to be proactive in managing their diabetes, supporting their overall health and well-being.
How Much Is Dexcom Stelo?
Dexcom Stelo is available for purchase without a prescription at stelo.com. Two pricing options have been announced: $89 for a monthly subscription or $99 for a one-time order of two sensors. Stelo is FSA and HSA eligible. More info can be found at stelo.com.
In Summary
CGM technology offers a range of benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, from improved glucose control to enhanced quality of life. By using devices like Dexcom Stelo, people can take control of their diabetes more effectively and live healthier, longer lives.
Additional Resources:
Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Type 2s: An Incredible Tool to Take Control of Your Diabetes
I have type 1 and I like that if I’m in a jam on the weekend I can go to a pharmacy and buy one if these. I know there is no alarms but it’s better than nothing!
Exactly! Nice to have the option!
I agree with Jessie — it’ll be nice to have access to these when my PBM decides to ask my endo if I still have Type 1 diabetes every year at a time that conveniences them to delay my next bundle of sensors (here’s looking at you, Optum ).
The lack of the alarms might actually be really, really nice, too.
If anyone hears of the street price of these sensors, let the rest of us know!
Strange that alerts and alarms are not controlled in my pump. You would think that the software in pump would sound any alerts and alarms based on what it receives from the G7 … having that in the sensor, just means added load on battery, and a 10 day life vs. 15. A longer sensor session would be great! Of course if the sessions were 15 and not 10 days, it would impact profits … I wait to see the costs and insurance coverage when it comes out!
A
I am a provider and was asking another provider why they don’t offer CGM to newly diagnosed patients with Type II Diabetes who are not on insulin or are at risk of hypoglycemia. In my opinion it would be a huge benefit for patients to be able to have an instant feedback of how foods and exercise affect their blood sugars. Not to mention controlling their blood sugars early on in their diagnosis can prevent worsening of their condition and co-morbidities that can happen with diabetes. Way to go Dexcom!!
Agreed!! Hopefully in the not too distant future it will be standard practice!
Exactly, If Medicare would pay for these insulin or not,looks to me like it would prevent or at least delay the requirement for insulin to treat this disease.
Insurance companies and Medicare can be shortsighted, but hopefully they will realize the benefit and turn things around soon.
Make it accessible for less money .
You have to be either wealthy or real poor to get access for almost anything. I’m in this dilemma. Thanks
It’s tough for sure. As more companies create products and options in this category pricing and insurance will adapt, but we know it’s hard right now.
Would love to have access to an affordable CGM since insurance won’t cover it for me with T2DM I just want an idea of how certain foods are impacting my glucose and don’t want to poke myself all day. I don’t need all the bells and whistles, just info to make smarter decisions.
Exactly…it is so beneficial.
Insurance cover my for 1 month! I can not afford it!!!! It change my life!!!!
Had G7 for over a month , diabetic for over 20 years and on insulin, now Medicare won’t pay for it any more. My doctor has called and my pharmacist has called without any response from anyone. It’s advertised on television all the time saying it’s covered by Medicare.
What’s going on , appreciate and answer,
The product works great, to bad ya can’t get it.
You might want to try calling Dexcom to see if they have any recommendations. It’s advertised on their website too that it’s covered with details here:
https://www.dexcom.com/en-us/faqs/medicare
You might also want to reach out to a Medicare specialist in your area for assistance – you can find SHIP counselors by state here:
https://www.shiphelp.org/