What to Expect With Dexcom G7?

Ever since they were first launched in the early 2000s, continuous glucose management (CGM) systems have completely changed how we monitor blood sugar levels. Over time, this technology has significantly evolved and has become more accurate and easier to use. New, improved versions are regularly made available.

In December 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (or “FDA,” the U.S. equivalent to Health Canada) approved the Dexcom G7, Dexcom’s latest CGM system, for patients aged 2 and older. This CGM system includes a subcutaneous sensor that sends data every five minutes to a mobile app or a receiver device via Bluetooth.
This new iteration of the Dexcom system is expected to be available in Canada within the next 12 to 18 months.

Here’s a look at the anticipated new and improved features.

A much smaller, all-in-one sensor

The Dexcom G7 features significant improvements such as the combination of the transmitter and sensor and the smaller size of this new all-in-one device.

The new sensor is about the size of two nickels, which is close to 60% smaller than its previous version. It means less plastic and packaging, making for a more environmentally friendly option. The upcoming Freestyle Libre 3, the next-generation Freestyle Libre system (Dexcom’s main competitor), will also be reduced in the same proportions.

Faster results

The Dexcom G7 also features a shorter sensor warm-up time of 30 minutes, compared to 2 hours with the Dexcom G6. This means that users will be able to view their blood sugar levels quicker after inserting a sensor.

More features

Other improved features include:

• More customizable alerts for more discretion.
• Extended wear
  Users will now have a 12-hour grace period to replace the sensor once it’s expired. This will provide more flexibility, for example to parents of children with type 1 diabetes (T1D), in situations where the sensor would have to be stopped early because it’s due to expire during the day.
• New insertion device
  The G7 will also come with a new type of insertion device with a button on the side, similar to the FreeStyle Libre’s. Despite the fact that people with diabetes are concerned about the waste generated by their medical equipment, this insertion device will be single-use and disposable.
• New mobile app
  Users will be able to view their blood sugar levels and view and create reports for analysis within the new app, which will combine the current Dexcom G6 app and Dexcom Clarity features.

Cost and coverage still to be determined

The Dexcom G7 is expected to be available in Canada sometime in the near future. This type of device is usually available in Canada 12 to 18 months after the U.S. launch. The price of this new system and its eligibility for coverage are yet to be determined.

Already authorized in the U.S., the Freestyle Libre 3 should also be authorized shortly in Canada.

Reference :

• Dexcom, Dexcom G7 has received FDA clearance, A new era of diabetes management. Coming early 2023, consulté le 15 décembre 2022, https://www.dexcom.com/en-us/g7-fda
• AI, First look: New Dexcom G7 glucose monitor, consulté le 15 décembre 2022, https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/12/13/first-look-at-the-new-dexcom-g7-glucose-monitor?fbclid=IwAR0LvwM5HuMmlG2g_O3BFwVPh7YEgStslrPuNg-T94svf_eHpIHJi39t-zs