Dexcom introduces its first continuous glucose monitor available without a prescription. Tech News 180
Dexcom has announced the launch of its new over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor, Stelo, now available for purchase in the United States. This innovative device allows users to monitor their glucose levels without needing a prescription, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
Stelo is designed for individuals with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin, though it can be used by anyone interested in tracking their glucose levels. The device is priced at $99 for a one-month supply or $89 per month with a subscription. It is also eligible for payment through flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts, according to Dexcom.
This is a significant step for Dexcom, as it is the company's first continuous glucose monitor available over the counter. Previously, their devices required a prescription, primarily serving Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients. With Stelo, Dexcom is now tapping into the prediabetes market, which includes over 125 million Americans. The goal of Stelo is to help users manage their glucose levels effectively by providing real-time feedback and insights into their glucose trends.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Stelo in March, making it the first over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor to receive such clearance. Dexcom's competitor, Abbott, has also received approval for similar devices, but Stelo's launch marks a new opportunity for Dexcom to cater to a growing market.
Stelo is a compact device, about the size of a quarter and half an inch thick, which users wear on their upper arm. It lasts for 15 days before needing replacement. The device connects wirelessly to a smartphone app, which provides users with real-time glucose readings and a daily graph showing their glucose levels in relation to a target range set according to medical standards. This range typically falls between 70 and 180 milligrams per deciliter.
The app alerts users to significant glucose spikes, which occur when blood sugar levels rise quickly and then fall. These spikes are often linked to food intake and can lead to fatigue and long-term health issues if not managed properly. Dexcom's Stelo aims to help users learn about their glucose patterns and make dietary adjustments to maintain stable levels.
In addition to monitoring glucose levels, the app includes a feature for logging meals, activities, and other notes. This helps users track what might be causing significant spikes. The app also offers educational resources in various categories, such as nutrition and exercise, to support users in understanding and managing their glucose levels better.
Testing Stelo revealed that while the setup was generally straightforward and user-friendly, some initial issues were reported, such as sensor errors and minor bleeding. However, Dexcom provides support through its website chat interface for users encountering problems. Overall, users found the app easy to navigate, with useful insights into their glucose trends and patterns.
Dexcom's Stelo offers a valuable tool for individuals looking to monitor their glucose levels without the need for a prescription. With its ease of use and real-time feedback, it is poised to make a significant impact on how people manage their glucose and overall health.
