An Introduction to Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a system that measures glucose levels continuously in order to monitor levels and allows the user to detect potential patterns throughout the day and night in real-time.

Unlike fingerprick tests, which provide a measurement for a single point in time, CGM provides dynamic glucose information by depicting trends and suggesting where one’s glucose levels may be heading. These readings are obtained from a small wire inserted under the skin. By using CGM, users can notice and respond to falling glucose levels before experiencing low-glucose events and even monitor patterns while asleep.

Studies have shown the following benefits of CGM;

Significant improvement of HbA1C levels¹
Lowers the risk of hypoglycaemia^1,2
Increase time spent in range^1,3
Improvement in quality of life and well-being⁴

About Dexcom CGM:

Dexcom G6 is the latest technology in the Dexcom continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) range. The outstanding accuracy of Dexcom G6 allows users to make treatment decisions with no calibrations required, which means zero fingerpricks^‡! We also distribute the Dexcom G5 Mobile system.^{^}

^‡ If your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions.

Dexcom CGM systems have three components:

Applicator
A one-touch applicator easily inserts a small sensor just beneath the skin.
Sensor & Transmitter
A slim sensor continuously measures glucose levels just beneath the skin and sends data wirelessly to a display device through a transmitter.
Display Device
A compatible smart device* or a small touchscreen Dexcom G6 Receiver displays real-time glucose readings.

In addition, Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G5 Mobile both have a ‘Share’ feature^§, allowing up to 5 accounts to receive data and alerts. This offers peace of mind for parents or loved ones who are then able to monitor the user’s glucose levels from anywhere.

Dexcom CGM readings can be uploaded to web-based platforms Dexcom CLARITY or diasend^®by Glooko for later viewing. Data reports show patterns of low and high glucose events, time in range and more. Reports can also easily be shared with your healthcare team.

Contact us today on 1300 851 056 for more information on how Dexcom CGM could support your diabetes management!

The Australian Government has recently announced an update to the NDSS Subsidy CGM Initiative. As of 18^th January 2021, if you are using a Tandem t:slim X2™ insulin pump and are eligible for the NDSS CGM Subsidy Initiative you can now have access to either Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM or Dexcom G6 CGM.

Dexcom G6 is only compatible with the t:slim X2 insulin pump with Basal-IQ™ technology. For more information on how to upgrade your existing pump, please contact us.

For more information on the full eligibility criteria please visit the NDSS website found here. Dexcom CGM systems are also available for private purchase. For pricing information or to order, visit our online shop

Always read the label and use only as directed. Read the warnings available on amsldiabetes.com.au/resources/ before purchasing. Consult your healthcare professional to see if this product is right for you.

*The Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G5 Mobile transmitter can only be paired with one medical device (either a Dexcom receiver or the t:slim X2 Insulin pump) and one compatible mobile device (phone or tablet) at the same time. To view a list of compatible smart devices, see here. The Dexcom G6 receiver cannot be used with the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM system and vise versa.

^{^} The Dexcom G5 Mobile system requires a calibration finger prick tests every 12 hours for CGM accuracy. The Dexcom G6 system requires zero fingerpricks, however if your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions.

^§ To receive readings from the Dexcom user, both Dexcom user and Dexcom follower needs a stable internet connection.

References
1. Šoupal J, Petruželková L, Flekač M et al. Comparison of Different Treatment Modalities for Type 1 Diabetes, Including Sensor-Augmented Insulin Regimens, in 52 Weeks of Follow-Up: A COMISAIR Study. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2016;18(9):532-538. doi:10.1089/dia.2016.0171 2. Welsh J, Gao P, Derdzinski M et al. Accuracy, Utilization, and Effectiveness Comparisons of Different Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2019;21(3):128-132. doi:10.1089/dia.2018.0374 3. Beck RW, et al. DIAMOND – JAMA. 2017. 4. Lind M, et al. GOLD JAMA. 2017.

Dexcom, Dexcom G6, Dexcom G5 Mobile, Dexcom Share, and Dexcom CLARITY are registered trademarks of Dexcom, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.