Dexcom G7 Software Video
afrezza device

Summary

Dexcom G7 is a low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter and warms up faster than other CGMs on the market. This sensor lasts for 10 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed. Optional low and high-blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

 

FDA-approved for wear on the back of the upper arm for ages 2 years and older or the upper buttocks for ages 2-17.

MARD of 8.2% 

Inhalable regular human insulin. Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses.

Components

Dexcom G7 : Sensor

Dexcom G7 : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5-minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Dexcom G7 : Receiver

Dexcom G7 : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.

Afrezza : Inhaler

Afrezza : Inhaler

Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.

Afrezza : Cartridge

Afrezza : Cartridge

Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.

Device Details

Overview

Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.

Nothing on the body when not in use. Visible when dosing. 

Affordability and Access

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. 

$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans. 

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. 

No Options

Data View Options

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G7 and Dexcom Clarity apps to view and share data. Both apps provide multiple data views, sharing options, and access through the clinician portal using a code from the user's device. Caregivers can use the Dexcom Follow app to view data. 

No Options

Duration and Storage

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

10 Days
Open cartridges last up to 10 days. Sealed cartridges may be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F - 46°F until the expiration date.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
LITTLE
 dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Waterproof when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.  

Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows. 

Comfort

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Less precise but easy dosing. Dosing may be less precise due to the inhaled method of dosing, but color-coded cartridges make dosing easier. Dosing can also be done based on small, medium, or large meals and can be administered 1-2 hours post meals. 

Easy to Use

No scanning required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes. 

Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

Quiet Mode (Vibrate). All system alerts will vibrate when this setting is enabled. Urgent Low Soon and technical alerts will sound if not acknowledged.

Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections.