What’s the deal with the Dexcom G7?

What’s the deal with the Dexcom G7?

The Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system has now launched in Australia and according to Dexcom, it has a number of advantages over the G6 in terms of size, design and application. Unlike the G6, however, it is currently not subsidised under the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS).

As users of the G6, we thought we’d take a look at what’s so different about the G7 in the key areas of:

  1. Size
  2. Warm up time and expiry
  3. Application and wear
  4. Alerts

1. Size

The Dexcom G7 is 60% smaller than the G6 and also comes with a lower profile, making it more discreet and comfortable. It measures 24 x 27.3 x 4.6mm which is somewhere in between the size of a 10 and 20 cent coin.

2. Warm up time and expiry

The Dexcom G7 has a 30-minute warm-up time which is the fastest among CGMs. When you compare this to the G6, which requires a 2-hour warm-up period before providing glucose readings,  there is a vast improvement in reading availability with the G7. The expiry of the G7 also comes with a handy 12 hour grace period allowing you to change the sensor when it’s convenient.

3. Application and wear

Unlike the G6 that uses a seperate sensor and transmitter, the G7 is an all-in-one sensor and transmitter, making application much easier. Like the G6, it can be worn in mulitple locations however in a new addition, the Dexcom G7 is waterproof up to 2.4 metres, compared to the Dexcom G6 that is water resistant up to the same depth.

4. Alerts

The G7 comes with customisable alerts much like the G6 however it does include a new “Quiet Mode” which can be set for up to 6 hours or indefinitely

 

Overall the G7 looks like it offers a more discreet and efficient CGM. Let’s hope that subsidisation is on the cards soon!

If you want to read more about the G7, you can find information at the official Dexcom website 

 Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific situation. This article does not constitute medical advice.