Eversense
Dexcom Stelo
Summary
This sensor lasts the longest - 365 days. It has to be placed under the skin by a healthcare provider. It has two parts, the implantable sensor and a transmitter that sends data to a mobile device.
MARD: 8.5-9.1%
*Recently FDA approved for use with insulin pumps.
Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter. This sensor lasts for up to 15 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.
*Recently FDA approved for people 18 years or older with type 2 diabetes. Expected availability is summer 2024.
MARD of 9.2%
Components
Receiver
Real-time glucose measurements sent to a compatible mobile-device or smart watch. No need for a separate receiver. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Transmitter
Transmitter sits outside of the body and is held on by an adhesive. Sends data every 5 minutes to a connected mobile device.
Sensor
Professionally inserted by a physician during a medical visit. Minor procedure.
Device Details
Overview
Very small implantable sensor but large transmitter must be worn on top of the skin.
Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Sometimes covered. Insertion and removal require a Health Care Provider. Insertion costs $100-$300, and removal costs $100-$400. Sensor and transmitter cost $800-$1400.
$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Pricing is to be announced in summer 2024. Price expected to be low to allow for over the counter distribution.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
CGM data can upload automatically to the web-based Eversense data management system (EDMS) from the Eversense mobile app.
To Be Announced
Data View Options
Yes
Eversense mobile app receives and displays data in easy-to-read charts and graphs that can be shared with family and friends through the Eversense NOW app.
To Be Announced
Duration and Storage
365 Days
Sensor lasts 365 days, but a physician must implant it. Transmitter must be charged daily.
15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
SOME dexterity needed
YES text-to-speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Water-resistant transmitter when submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes and must be within 25 feet of the connected smart device.
Waterproof when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device. This device is intended to help people with non-insulin requiring type 2 diabetes better understand their blood sugar numbers.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
On-body vibration alerts when blood glucose levels are higher or lower than the set range. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Very limited alerts. This device does not provide alarms and alerts for high, low, and rise/fall rates. This device is intended to track and understand the effects of food on blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.
Comfort
Longest-lasting sensor fits comfortably under the skin. Minor procedure is required. Least likely to have compression lows.
Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Predictive alerts make insulin dosing easier by tracking high and low trends.
No options. Stelo is intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes who do not require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels.
Easy to Use
Minor procedure. Requires insertion by a physician during a medical visit.
Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.
Fewer Fingersticks
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Tiny sensor is implanted under the skin, so the user can be discreet when needed. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor not movable on body and requires regular meter use.
Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing.