All About CGM and CGM Patches

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) has revolutionized the way people manage diabetes and monitor their glucose levels. This technology offers a convenient and effective alternative to traditional fingerstick methods, providing real-time insights into blood sugar fluctuations. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of CGM, delve into the functionality of CGM patches, and highlight some of the most popular devices on the market.

Introduction to CGM

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are wearable devices that track glucose levels in real-time throughout the day and night. Unlike traditional fingerstick testing, which requires frequent blood samples, CGMs use sensors placed under the skin to measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid. This allows for continuous monitoring without the need for repeated pricks, making it easier and less painful for users to keep track of their glucose levels.

Advantages of CGMs Over Fingerstick Methods

One of the primary advantages of CGMs is the ability to obtain continuous glucose readings. This means you can monitor your glucose levels throughout the day, allowing for timely decisions regarding diet, exercise, and insulin dosing. With access to real-time data, users can identify patterns, avoid spikes, and manage their diabetes more effectively.

Additionally, CGMs often come with alerts that notify users when their glucose levels are too high or too low, providing an extra layer of safety. This proactive approach can help prevent emergencies and complications related to diabetes management.

Popular Abbott & Dexcom CGMs available in the market

Both Abbott and Dexcom are among the top brands in the world of CGM. Let’s have a look at some.

Two latest CGM devices from Abbott, both are water resistant, and can work with automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems as well.

Freestyle Libre 2 Plus: The Freestyle Libre 2 Plus offers enhanced features over the standard Libre 2, including real-time glucose monitoring and optional alarms for high and low glucose levels. This small, discreet sensor that lasts up to 15 days is suitable for anyone who is experiencing diabetes and is aged 2 and above. Access your real time glucose data anytime, simply scan the sensor with a mobile device. This device is designed to provide better diabetes management – accurate readings, longer time span, AID compatibility and additional alerts make it a suitable option for anyone who wants to manage diabetes with ease.

Freestyle Libre 3 Plus: The Libre 3 Plus is the smallest water-resistant sensor in the world (size of two pennies stacked together). This is the most advanced model in the Libre series that lasts for up to 15 days and can be worn by anyone who is living with diabetes and is aged 2 and above. Along with continuous glucose alerts via a smartphone app, the Libre 3 Plus features automatic alerts for glucose fluctuations. This allows proactive management of blood sugar levels and improved overall diabetes control. On top this sensor is also compatible with AID systems.

Two latest CGM devices AID compatible sensors from Dexcom, both are water resistant;

Dexcom G6

The Dexcom G6 is a slim, water-resistant sensor that lasts up to 10 days. It provides real-time glucose readings directly to your smartphone or compatible device. The G6 features customizable alerts for high and low glucose levels, allowing for proactive management of blood sugar. Just like any other CGM device, the Dexcom G6 eliminates the need for fingerstick calibrations, making monitoring easy. On top, this is compatible with various automated insulin delivery (AID) systems.

Dexcom G7: The Dexcom G7 is the next generation in continuous glucose monitoring, offering the smallest and most advanced sensor in the Dexcom series. Designed for maximum comfort and wearability, the G7 sensor lasts up to 10 days and 12 hours grace period (at the end of 10 days). This sensor provides real-time glucose data directly to your smartphone. Offers customizable alerts for glucose fluctuations, enabling immediate adjustments to your diabetes management plan. The G7 also integrates seamlessly with AID systems, ensuring that those aged 2 and above can effectively manage their diabetes with confidence and ease.

Integration with Automated Insulin Delivery Systems

Many of the latest CGM devices are compatible with Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems. These advanced technologies enable users to receive timely doses of insulin without the need for tubing. Tubeless systems, like the Omnipod 5 can be paired with Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7 sensors, along with the T: Slim X2 Control-IQ, provide a seamless experience for diabetes management. This integration allows for automated insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings, making it easier than ever to maintain optimal blood sugar levels.

Understanding CGM Patches

CGM sensors are inserted into skin, usually on the back of upper arm or abdomen in adults and upper buttocks in case of children. Since they last for a long period of time, often between 10 to 15 days, varying across brands and models of the CGM systems, such as Abbott usually offers more days as compared to Dexcom.

CGM patches play an important role in providing the adhesive solution that secures the sensor to the skin. These patches are designed for comfort and reliability, ensuring that the sensor stays in place during daily activities, these activities include taking shower, going on a jog, or even swimming in case of some sensors which are water resistant / water proof, such as Freestyle Libre 3 Plus which can be submerged into water for upto 3 feet (no more than 30 mins) and Dexcom G7 which is claimed as water proof by Dexcom and can be submerged into water for upto 7.8 feet (no more than 24 hours).

Among the various CGM patches options available in the market, Skin Grip patches stand out as some of the best on the market. Known for their excellent adhesiveness, Skin Grip patches ensure that the CGM sensor remains securely attached, even during exercise or water activities. Additionally, they are affordable, making them a popular choice among users who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and CGM patches are transforming the way individuals manage diabetes, offering a more convenient and accurate approach to glucose tracking. With the integration of AID systems and the availability of reliable CGM patches like Skin Grip, users can experience improved outcomes in their diabetes management journey. Whether you choose Abbott’s Libre series or Dexcom’s innovative devices, the benefits of CGM technology are clear—finger prick free and 24 hours glucose monitoring, plus and overall easy management of diabetes with the help of automatic insulin delivery systems.