Are Continuous Glucose Monitors Available OTC? Plus, Answers to 6 Other FAQs
Since early 2024, a few over-the-counter continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have been cleared by the FDA. Here are 7 FAQs about OTC CGMs and how they work.
Lingo
Used for Diagnosis
Used for Diagnosis
Lingo is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system for people 18 years and older who aren't using insulin. It's available over the counter, and comes with a sensor that attaches to your skin and a mobile app. It was FDA cleared in June 2024 to continuously measure glucose values and help people better understand how their lifestyle affects glucose changes. Unlike other CGMs, it's not meant to help manage diabetes.
What is Lingo?
What is Lingo used for?
- Monitor glucose levels
How Lingo works
The Lingo system is made up of two parts that work together to measure and record your glucose levels throughout the day.
- Sensor: The sensor is attached to the skin on the back of your upper arm to measure your glucose levels from just below the skin.
- Lingo app: The app on a compatible iPhone displays and stores the readings.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Lingo |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Continuous glucose monitoring |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Lingo essentials
Pros and cons of Lingo
Pros
- Displays glucose levels every minute on your mobile phone
- Provides coaching insights based on your body's reaction to diet and exercise
- Available without a prescription
- Only need to change sensor every 2 weeks
Cons
- Only works with an app on compatible mobile devices
- Sensor must be stored between 39°F and 77°F to work properly
- Not FDA cleared for people younger than 18 years old
- Can't be used to manage diabetes
Pharmacist tips for Lingo
How to set up your Lingo:
- The Lingo system only works with an app on a compatible mobile phone. Download the Lingo app to pair with your sensor and see your glucose readings. How to start using your Lingo:
- When you're ready to insert your Lingo sensor, first wash and dry your hands. Choose the place on the back of your upper arm where you want to insert the sensor and wash the area. Clean it with an alcohol wipe and allow the area to air dry.
- Peel off the lid from the Lingo biosensor pack. Then, unscrew the cap from the sensor applicator and line the dark mark on the applicator up with the dark mark on the sensor pack. Place the sensor applicator on a flat, hard surface and press down firmly until it stops.
- Lift the applicator out of the sensor pack, and push the sensor applicator firmly against the site on the back of your upper arm to apply the sensor.
- Gently pull the applicator away from your body, and make sure the sensor is secure.
- Place the cap back on the sensor applicator and throw both the applicator and sensor pack away.
- Open the Lingo app and follow the instructions to pair your sensor. You'll start seeing glucose readings 1 hour after pairing a new sensor. How to remove Lingo sensors:
- You'll need to replace your Lingo sensor once every 14 days, or sooner if it becomes loose.
- To remove the sensor, slowly peel one side away from your skin just like you would a bandage.
- When applying a new sensor, choose a place on the back of your upper arm that's different from the most recent position. This will help prevent skin irritation.
- Follow your local regulations when disposing of used sensors, since they're considered electronic equipment, batteries, sharps, and biohazard material.
Risks and warnings for Lingo
Lingo 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.
Warning for medical tests and imaging
You must remove Lingo before getting a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, or high-frequency electrical heat (diathermy) treatment. These medical tests might damage the sensor and cause incorrect glucose readings. You can apply a new sensor after your test is finished. Don't reuse the sensor you removed.
Warning for security machines
If you're going through security, such as at the airport, let the security personnel know that you're wearing a CGM. Don't go through any scanners using X-ray waves while wearing a Lingo sensor. Instead, request that they use another method for screening. It’s not known how X-rays or other scanners affect this product, and they might damage the sensor or impact its performance. Lingo sensors can, however, go through body scanners that use electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Not for use in people on dialysis or very ill
Ask your primary care provider before using Lingo if you're on dialysis or if you're very ill. It isn't known how well the device works in these situations.
Only for use on the back of the upper arm
Only apply the Lingo sensor to the back of your upper arm. It isn't known how well it works if you place it somewhere else on your body, and you might get results that aren't accurate.
Risk of vitamin C causing false blood sugar readings
Taking vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can affect the accuracy of the glucose readings from Lingo. If you take more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C while wearing the sensor, your glucose readings might be falsely high. Before taking any supplements, check how much vitamin C they contain. Vitamin C is commonly found in multivitamins and cold remedies. If you're not sure, ask your pharmacist for help.
Don't reuse sensors
The Lingo sensors are only meant for single use. Don't reuse or share them with anyone else. If you reuse them, you might get inaccurate glucose readings. Reusing or sharing sensors raises the risk of infection. If your sensor becomes loose, remove it and apply a new sensor.
Lingo dosage
Typical dosage for Lingo
Adults ages 18 years and older: Place a new Lingo sensor on the skin of the back of the upper arm once every 14 days.
What are alternatives to Lingo?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Lingo. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
