Pros and Cons of Dexcom G7 – Perfect Guide For You

When discussing the pros and cons of Dexcom G7, it’s important to keep an eye on its older variants, such as the Dexcom G6. Among the major pros are its built-in transmitter that previously was attached to the sensor separately, shorter warm-up time, smaller size, better MARD value, increased compatibility with the automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems, and more. While the major cons include its unreliable glucose readings, fall alarms, shorter life span than marketed, and more, please note that the cons are purely based on user experience in this blog.

What is a CGM?

CGM is a continuous glucose monitoring device that comes with a sensor and a monitor (or you can also choose to see results on your mobile phone). CGM Sensor is a small device that can be worn in a few different places, the most famous ones of which are the back of the upper arm and abdomen (2 inches from the belly button). Allowing people to track their glucose levels 24/7, see glucose trends, get alerts for high and low glucose, and share data with doctors and loved ones.

CGM Monitor is a discreet and compact device used to see your real-time glucose readings and trends. Some of the readers also have the option of taking notes and alarms as well.

What is Dexcom G7?

Dexcom is known for its innovation in the CGM world and Dexcom G7 is a huge milestone covered. Not only it’s a discreet and tiny CGM but its connectivity with smart watches has astonished the world. This means you can now see your glucose results right on your wrist. You can see a list of G7 compatible watches and mobile phones here.

Plus, previous Dexcom CGM models like G6 used to have separate transmitters which was causing a bit of hassle. However, with Dexcom G7, there is no separate transmitter required.

Pros of Dexcom G7

• Faster Warmup: The G7 warms up in only 30 minutes as compared to 2 hours of G6 sensor, reducing the time users wait for readings.
• Half the Size of G6: The Dexcom G7 sensor is approximately 60% smaller than the G6 sensor. The dimension of Dexcom G7 Sensor is 2.74 cm × 2.41 cm × 0.47 cm (length × width × height) while G6 are 4.57 cm × 3.05 cm × 1.52 cm (length × width × height).
• Compatibility Aspect: This sensor is compatible with both, iOS and Android smartphones thar are updated. It is also compatible with Omnipod 5 and Tandem T:slim insulin pumps.
• Customizable Alerts: Users of G7 can set customizable high and low glucose alerts, including a predictive Urgent Low Soon alert, and use quiet or vibrate modes for discretion.
• FDA Approved for Ages 2+: The G7 is cleared or approved for use in children as young as two years old, making it more perfect in all sensors. 
• Seamless Connectivity: The G7 is the “most connected CGM,” allowing for seamless integration with various smart devices, health apps, and compatible insulin pumps.
• Remote Sharing: The Dexcom Follow app lets users share their glucose data with up to 10 followers, providing peace of mind and support for their network.
• 12-Hour Grace period: You have a 12-hour grace period after the sensor’s 10-day wear time ends, allowing for a seamless transition to a new sensor without interrupting data.
• No assembly Required: It is easily inserted with a one-button applicator. Unlike the previous Dexcom G6, the G7’s sensor and transmitter come pre-assembled.
• Industry-Leading Accuracy: The G7 provides highly accurate glucose readings to help users manage their condition effectively.

Cons of Dexcom G7 Sensor

If we talk about the overall side effects of Dexcom G7, here are a few of them based on the user experiences and personal guidance.

• Initial Accuracy: During the initial warmup phase of 30 minutes, the sensor may deliver less reliable or inconsistent glucose readings.
• Pressure Sensitivity: Applying pressure or movement on the sensor site can cause false low readings, especially in night.
• Vitamin C Effect: High doses of Vitamin C may interfere with glucose measurements, potentially causing inaccurate readings.
• Non-Restartable Design: Unlike the G6, the G7’s integrated all-in-one design does not support extending the sensor’s wear time through a restart.
• Compare to Libre 3 Plus: It is smaller than the Dexcom G6, but still bigger than the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus.
• Skin Issues: It may cause bleeding, pain, infection, swelling, itching, or skin irritation.
• Adhesion Patches: CGM patches (Cut and without cut) might be required as the adhesiveness of the sensor may run out before 10 days.

Dexcom G7 User Feedback:

User Feedback from the USA (r/dexcom)

Mixed Dexcom G7 reviews from the r/dexcom subreddit suggest that users have both positive and negative experiences. Many users appreciate the compact design, attached transmitter, minimized warmups, and that it saves from multiple fingerpricks throughout the day (although we may not consider this one as it’s common among the CGM sensors).

However, some users are concerned about the inaccurate glucose readings, particularly when blood glucose levels fluctuate rapidly, the app’s connectivity issues with the device, and sensor calibration issues.

Are you also experiencing inaccurate glucose readings? If so, here is “How to calibrate G7 Dexcom?”

Conclusion:

In summary, the Dexcom G7 offers significant improvements in design, accuracy and user experience. However, potential users of this sensor should be aware of its limitations, particularly regarding adhesive durability and sensor sensitivity. Overall, the G7 is a valuable medical device for individuals seeking more precise and convenient glucose monitoring. To sum up the pros and cons of Dexcom G7, I would say the addition of readings on the wrist, the grace period, the shorter warm-up time, and the new sensor insertion are amazing. And the errors people have experienced can definitely be resolved by Dexcom.

Disclaimer: This is only for informational purposes. Always consult a healthcare specialist before taking any medical action.

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