Dexcom G6 vs. Freestyle Libre 3 for Diabetes Type 2 and Diabetes Type 1: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre 3 are both continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems used to track glucose levels in people with diabetes. They belong to the same drug class and are used to monitor glucose levels, but they have some differences. Dexcom G6 can be used by children as young as 2 years old, while FreeStyle Libre 3 is for those 4 years and older. Dexcom G6 provides glucose readings every 5 minutes, whereas FreeStyle Libre 3 updates every minute. The Dexcom G6 system includes a sensor, transmitter, and receiver, while FreeStyle Libre 3 uses a sensor and an app on a smart device. Dexcom G6 sensors last up to 10 days, and FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors last up to 14 days. Dexcom G6 can pair with compatible insulin pumps, but FreeStyle Libre 3 cannot be used with automated insulin dosing systems. Both systems require you to avoid certain medical tests like MRIs, as they can damage the sensors. Additionally, certain medications and supplements can affect the accuracy of glucose readings for both systems.

Dexcom G6

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FreeStyle Libre 3

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Summary for Dexcom G6

Prescription only

Dexcom G6 is a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for people with diabetes ages 2 and older track their glucose levels in real time. It uses a small sensor that's placed just under the skin and a transmitter that attaches to the sensor. The transmitter sends glucose readings every 5 minutes to a compatible phone, receiver, or app, so you can see trends and get alerts for high or low blood sugar. The sensor is worn for up to 10 days, and the transmitter lasts up to 3 months. You don’t need to do fingersticks to check your blood sugar with this device.

Indications for Dexcom G6

Monitor glucose levels

Pros and Cons for Dexcom G6

Pros

Can be used by people as young as 2 years old
Sends readings every 5 minutes
Gives alerts for both high and low glucose levels
No fingersticks needed

Cons

Each sensor only lasts up to 10 days
Sensor and transmitter are replaced at different times
New sensors take about 2 hours to warm up
Must remove before certain medical procedures

Common Side Effects for Dexcom G6

Skin irritation (redness or swelling) at the needle or patch site

Warnings for Dexcom G6

Warning for medical tests and imaging
Warning for security machines
Avoid skin care or other topical products
Low or high glucose levels
Risk of medications causing false glucose readings

Summary for Freestyle Libre 3

Prescription only

FreeStyle Libre 3 is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that you wear on your skin. It's designed to replace fingersticks for people ages 4 years and older with diabetes. It measures your glucose level every minute throughout the day to better help you manage your blood sugar. The FreeStyle Libre 3 system uses a sensor that's attached to your skin, which can be scanned and read using an app on a smart device (e.g., smartphone). It doesn't include a reader, and it's important to check phone compatibility to make sure the FreeStyle Libre 3 app will work properly.