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Dexcom G6

Used for Diabetes Type 2, Diabetes Type 1
Used for Diabetes Type 2, Diabetes Type 1

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.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on August 21, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Dexcom G6?

What is Dexcom G6 used for?

How Dexcom G6 works

The Dexcom G6 system has 3 parts that work together to measure and record your glucose levels throughout the day.

  • Sensor: This small part attaches to your skin and measures your glucose levels from just underneath the skin.

  • Transmitter: This connects to the sensor and sends your glucose readings directly to the receiver.

  • Receiver: This shows and stores your readings. It can be the Dexcom receiver, your smartphone (using the Dexcom app), or a compatible insulin pump.

Are you looking for information on Dexcom G7 instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDexcom G6
Drug ClassContinuous glucose monitoring
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Dexcom G6 essentials

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Written by Timothy Aungst, PharmD
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What are the side effects of Dexcom G6?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

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

Other Side Effects

  • Skin picking
  • Infection

Source: Prescribing Information

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Dexcom G6

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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

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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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Dexcom G6

pharmacist

How to set up your Dexcom G6:

  • You can use either the receiver that comes with Dexcom G6 or your smartphone to see and save your glucose readings.

    How to start using your Dexcom G6:

    • Wash and dry your hands before putting on the Dexcom G6 sensor. Pick a spot on your skin and clean it with an alcohol wipe. Then press and hold the sensor for 30 to 60 seconds.

      • Once the Dexcom G6 sensor is on your skin, remove the safety guard on the orange button. Then press the orange button to insert the sensor — you should hear a click and feel little to no pain.

        • After inserting the Dexcom G6 sensor, insert the transmitter into the slot on the sensor.

          • If you're using a new transmitter, you must pair it with the receiver or smartphone. Pairing can take about 2 hours, but once it’s done you’ll get a glucose reading every 5 minutes.

            • You can use a sticky overpatch or medical tape to keep your Dexcom G6 sensor in place.

              • Keep your receiver or smartphone within 20 feet of Dexcom G6. Walls and distance can block the signal.

                • You can shower while wearing the Dexcom G6 sensor and transmitter. They are water resistant in 8 feet of water and for up to 24 hours. But the receiver isn't water resistant, so keep it dry.

                  How to remove Dexcom G6 sensor:

                  • You'll need to replace your Dexcom G6 sensor once every 10 days.

                    • To take off the sensor, gently peel the patch away from your skin. The sensor and transmitter will come off together, then remove the transmitter from its holder.

                      • Always place a new sensor in a different spot than the old one. Doing so will give your skin a chance to heal and lessen scarring.

                        • Be sure to enter the new sensor code. If you skip this, you'll need to calibrate the new sensor by using fingersticks every day to check your blood sugar levels.

                          faqs

                          Frequently asked questions about Dexcom G6

                          How long does a Dexcom G6 transmitter last?
                          You'll need to replace your Dexcom G6 transmitter once every 3 months because the battery only lasts that long. When it's almost time to replace it, you'll get a warning on your display, whether you're using a receiver or a smartphone app.
                          Can I reuse a Dexcom G6 transmitter?
                          Yes, you can use one Dexcom G6 transmitter for up to 3 months. During that time, you can use it with multiple sensors. You'll get a reminder 10 days before your battery runs out, so you have time to get a new transmitter. If the battery has less than 10 days left, you won't be able to connect a new sensor, and you'll need to replace the transmitter first.
                          What's the difference between Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7?
                          Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7 are continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for people with diabetes who are 2 years or older. Both systems check your glucose every 5 minutes and have sensors that last for up to 10 days. The main difference is that G7 is a newer, improved version. Its sensor is smaller and thinner, and it only takes 30 minutes to warm up, unlike the G6, which takes 2 hours. The G7 also comes with the sensor and transmitter already put together, which makes it easier to use. Talk to your prescriber about comparing the two.
                          How long does a Dexcom G6 sensor last?
                          You'll need to replace your Dexcom G6 sensor once every 10 days. Your receiver or smartphone will send you a reminder the day before it's time to change the sensor. This helps to make sure you don’t miss a reading and stay on track with your glucose monitoring.
                          Where can I put Dexcom G6 on my body?
                          You can put the Dexcom G6 on your belly. Children between the ages of 2 to 17 can also place it on their upper buttocks. Don't insert the sensor on skin that has tattoos, scars, irritation, or thick hair. And avoid areas that are bony or near waistbands. Also, make sure you insert the sensor at least 3 inches away from an insulin pump infusion set or insulin injection site. Placing the sensor in the wrong spot can affect how accurate your glucose readings are.
                          How accurate is the Dexcom G6?
                          Dexcom G6 has an overall mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of about 9%. MARD is a common way to measure how accurate a CGM is by comparing the device's reading to your actual blood glucose level. A lower MARD means the CGM is more accurate. Because the Dexcom G6's MARD is less than 10%, it's considered to be fairly accurate and reliable.
                          What's the difference between Omnipod and Dexcom G6?
                          Omnipod DASH and Omnipod 5 are wearable insulin delivery systems, which means they deliver insulin into your body automatically. This is different from Dexcom G6, which only monitors your glucose levels every 5 minutes but doesn't give insulin. But Omnipod 5 can be paired with Dexcom G6 to create an automated insulin delivery system, which adjusts insulin based on your glucose readings.
                          Can you use overpatches with Dexcom G6?
                          Yes, you can use an overpatch with Dexcom G6 to keep the transmitter in place. Apply the overpatch or medical tape over the white patch on all sides to help it stick better. Don't place the overpatch underneath the transmitter or its plastic holder since this can affect how the device works.
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                          What are the risks and warnings for Dexcom G6?

                          Dexcom G6 can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                          risk-warning

                          Warning for medical tests and imaging

                          Avoid wearing Dexcom G6 during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, or diathermy treatment. The system hasn't been tested with these medical tests. There's a risk that the tests can damage the system, leading to inaccurate glucose readings. If you're scheduled for any medical tests or imaging, let your prescriber know that you're wearing Dexcom G6 since you might need to remove it beforehand.

                          risk-warning

                          Warning for security machines

                          If you're going through security, such as at the airport, let the staff know that you're wearing Dexcom G6. Don't go through body scanners or X-ray machines since it might damage the system. Ask for another screening option, such as a hand-wand, visual check, or walk-through metal detector.

                          risk-warning

                          Avoid skin care or other topical products

                          Try to keep skin products like sunscreen or insect repellent off your Dexcom G6. These products can damage the plastic, which might cause the device to stop working correctly. If any product gets on your Dexcom G6, wash your hands and gently wipe it off with a clean cloth.

                          risk-warning

                          Low or high glucose levels

                          If your symptoms of low or high blood sugar don't match your Dexcom G6 readings, check your glucose levels with a fingerstick test and let your prescriber know. It’s a good idea to keep a separate blood glucose meter at home.

                          risk-warning

                          Risk of medications causing false glucose readings

                          Some medications can make Dexcom G6 readings less accurate. If you take hydroxyurea for sickle cell anemia or cancer, your glucose readings might show as higher than they really are. Taking too much acetaminophen (over 1 gram every 6 hours) can also cause falsely high readings. This can raise your risk for dangerously low blood sugar.

                          dosage

                          Dexcom G6 dosage forms

                          The average cost for 1 carton of 3 sensors of Dexcom G6 is $404.35 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 17.21% off the average retail price of $488.38.
                          carton
                          Carton
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          1 receiver1 carton$388.14$388.14
                          3 sensors1 carton$404.35$404.35
                          1 transmitter1 carton$255.71$255.71

                          Typical dosing for Dexcom G6

                          Place a new Dexcom G6 sensor on your belly every 10 days. For people ages 2 to 17, the sensor can also be placed on the upper buttock if preferred.

                          Replace the Dexcom G6 transmitter once every 3 months.

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                          How much does Dexcom G6 cost?

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                          Dexcom G6 (brand)
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                          contraindications-icon

                          Dexcom G6 contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Dexcom G6 will not be safe for you to take.

                          • Wearing Dexcom G6 during MRI, CT scan, or diathermy

                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Dexcom G6?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Dexcom G6. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Dexcom G6
                          Used for:
                          $172.53 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Dexcom G7
                          Used for:

                          • Monitor glucose levels in adults and children ages 2 years and older

                          $404.32 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          FreeStyle Libre 3
                          Used for:

                          • Monitor glucose levels

                          $154.99 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). Dexcom apps.

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). Getting started and setting up the Dexcom G6 receiver.

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). Getting started with the G6 app.

                          View All References (9)

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). How long can I wear the sensor?.

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). How long does the Dexcom G6 transmitter last?

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). Is your device compatible with Dexcom products?

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). What is a sensor code and why do I need one?

                          Dexcom, Inc. (n.d.). Your pump. Your pen. Get connected.

                          Dexcom, Inc. (2022). Using your G6.

                          Heinemann, L., et al. (2020). Benefits and limitations of MARD as a performance parameter for continuous glucose monitoring in the interstitial space. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology.

                          U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). Diathermy.

                          Welsh, J. B., et al. (2022). Comparisons of Fifth-, Sixth-, and Seventh-Generation Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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