Both the Dexcom G6 and G7 are currently available. There are some key differences.
Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 has 3 parts including a sensor, a transmitter and a receiver (reader or compatible smart phone). The sensor is inserted under the skin, and the Dexcom G6 transmitter is attached. Once the transmitter is attached to the sensor, it is waterproof. The device can be worn for up to 10 days. The Dexcom G6 is compatible with many devices. It can send data to a Dexcom G6 receiver, the Dexcom G6 App on a compatible smartphone, and the Tandem X2 insulin pump. Data can also be viewed on an Apple Watch, as long as the person wearing is it using the G6 App. You can share data with up to 5 followers when using a smartphone as a receiver. If you are using ONLY the receiver that came with the device or only a t:slim pump, you cannot share data with others.
Other features and considerations:
- Treatment decisions (calculating insulin doses) can be made with G6 data.
- The device does not need to be calibrated with a blood glucose meter, except under rare circumstances.
- You should always use a blood glucose meter when your symptoms don’t match the readings on the CGM, when the device is not displaying BOTH a number and and arrow, and for very high and very low glucose readings.
- You may need extra tape or an adhesive wipe like Skin Tac to help keep the sensor on for 10 days, especially if you spend a lot of time outside or in the water. If your sensor falls off in fewer than 10 days, contact Dexcom directly for a replacement.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) does not affect glucose readings on the G6.
Dexcom G7
The Dexcom G7 became available earlier this year and is an all in one device that is paired with a compatible reader or smartphone app. 7 does many of the same things as G6 noted above.
Some key differences:
- Accuracy has improved
- The combined sensor and transmitter is considerably smaller and is now completely disposable
- The warmup time is shorter (30 minutes)
- There is a “grace period” at the end of the sensor session
- High and low alerts can be customized
- It’s easier to review your data via features built into the Dexcom G7 app
- Dexcom provides an “overpatch” with each sensor to help with adhesion and stability.
Reviewed by Mike Haller, MD and Laura Jacobsen, MD on 2/12/20.
This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.
