Dexcom alternatives: What can I use instead of Dexcom?

In this article:

• Dexcom alternatives
• Freestyle Libre
• Eversense 365
• Dexcom Stelo
• Freestyle Lite
• Contour Next One
• How to switch
• Choosing the right path

In this article

• Dexcom alternatives
• Freestyle Libre
• Eversense 365
• Dexcom Stelo
• Freestyle Lite
• Contour Next One
• How to switch
• Choosing the right path

Dexcom G7 is a prescription continuous glucose monitor (CGM) used to test blood glucose (also known as blood sugar) in people with diabetes. The maker of Dexcom is phasing out an earlier model called Dexcom G6. Testing blood glucose is an important part of diabetes management. If blood glucose gets too low (hypoglycemic) or too high (hyperglycemic), immediate action is usually required to bring the level back into range.

Traditional blood glucose meters (BGMs) use fingersticks that capture a snapshot of glucose levels. In contrast, continuous glucose monitoring gives a complete picture of blood sugar patterns, allowing healthcare providers and patients to make informed decisions. Dexcom G7 works through a wearable sensor placed on the skin that transmits readings to a small recording device every five minutes. Results can also be directly sent to a smart device such as a smartphone or smartwatch via the Dexcom app. People may seek an alternative glucose monitor due to cost, ease of use, and compatibility with mobile devices.

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What can I use instead of Dexcom?

Other options are available for blood glucose monitoring. Alternative continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices include Freestyle Libre, Dexcom Stelo, and Eversense 365. Another commonly used CGM device, Guardian Connect, will be discontinued by Medtronic in October 2025. Blood glucose meter (fingerstick) options include Contour Next One and Freestyle Lite. These options may be more suitable for certain individuals due to cost, convenience, insurance coverage, and functionality.

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Top 5 Dexcom alternatives

The following are some of the most common alternatives to Dexcom G7.

1. Freestyle Libre

Freestyle Libre is a continuous glucose monitoring system that supplies real-time blood sugar readings without fingersticks. This alternative is available as two models, Freestyle Libre 2 and Freestyle Libre 3, which differ in how they test blood sugar. Freestyle Libre 2 conducts intermittent scanning (also called flash glucose monitoring) that requires scanning the CGM sensor with either the reader or a compatible smartphone for each retrieval of glucose readings. Freestyle Libre 3 constantly transmits glucose readings (every minute) directly to the reader or phone without scanning the sensor. The sensors for each model can be worn for up to 15 days and should be worn on the back of the upper arm. Like Dexcom, Freestyle Libre has its own app that logs glucose history, contains customizable alarms (specific high and low blood glucose alerts), and creates reports that can be shared with healthcare providers to improve decision-making for diabetes treatment.

RELATED: Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre: Differences, similarities, and which one is better for you

2. Eversense 365

Eversense 365 is a unique continuous glucose monitoring system that supplies one year of real-time blood glucose readings. Continuous glucose monitor sensors like Dexcom G7 and Freestyle Libre must be changed every 10 to 15 days, depending on the system. The Eversense 365 sensor is placed under the skin in the upper arm by a healthcare professional and replaced once a year. This alternative also has an app that transmits CGM readings to a smartphone or smartwatch. The Eversense app provides glucose level trend reports and alerts for high or low glucose levels. This alternative may be more convenient as frequent sensor changes are not required.

3. Dexcom Stelo

Also made by Dexcom, Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter (OTC) continuous glucose monitoring system that does not require a prescription (Dexcom G7 requires a prescription). This alternative is intended for adults who would like to learn more about their glucose health, who are not using insulin, have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, and are not at risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Dexcom Stelo offers personalized insights into how exercise, food, and sleep affect blood glucose levels. Viewable on the Dexcom Stelo app, the monitor can transmit data related to blood glucose level spikes. The Stelo sensor can be worn for up to 15 days, with a 12-hour grace period at the end, and should be worn on the back of the upper arm.

4. Freestyle Lite

Freestyle Lite is a traditional blood glucose meter that uses fingersticks (also known as finger pricks). This device uses a drop of blood to check blood glucose levels at that moment. This alternative only needs a small blood sample (about the size of a pinhead), which often creates a less painful testing experience than other meters. Some people prefer fingerstick meters as they are familiar and simple to use. Fingerstick meters like Freestyle Lite are ideal for confirming low or high blood sugar symptoms with their ability to perform precise, real-time glucose readings. The Freestyle Lite meter offers a variety of benefits, including a compact design for ease of carrying, fast glucose data provided in seconds, and a backlit screen for convenient day or night use.

5. Contour Next One

Contour Next One is another traditional blood glucose meter that uses fingersticks. An advantage of fingerstick meters, like Contour Next One, is that they provide precise and immediate readings at a specific moment. When managing diabetes, this immediate blood glucose reading can be pivotal in certain situations. Since fingerstick meters have been around for years, they are often more affordable and widely available than continuous glucose monitors. Contour Next One has Bluetooth capability with a smartphone app that allows easy tracking and a smartLIGHT feature that gives instant feedback on blood glucose readings by color coding glucose ranges to help make informed decisions about diabetes care.

How to switch to a Dexcom alternative

1. Do not suddenly stop using Dexcom without medical advice

Part of diabetes management includes understanding normal, low, and high blood sugar level ranges and being aware of what these levels are in the body. Without a blood glucose monitoring device, a person with diabetes may be at risk for dangerously low or high blood sugar levels. Before stopping use of a blood glucose monitoring device, like Dexcom G7, discuss with a healthcare provider how to safely discontinue use.

2. Establish a diabetes treatment plan with a healthcare provider

Along with prescription medications and lifestyle modifications, establishing a comprehensive diabetes management plan with a healthcare provider can help to improve quality of life and prevent serious health complications. A crucial part of diabetes management is staying within a personalized blood sugar target range. Understanding and discussing all blood glucose monitoring options with a healthcare provider can help people find the right fit.

3. Learn how to use a new blood glucose monitoring device

With various blood glucose monitoring device options available that vary in how they are used and what special features are included, it’s important to learn about a new device. Alternatives like Freestyle Libre and Eversense have instructional videos and user guides available online.

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Choosing the right path for diabetes treatment

• Treating diabetes looks different for each person because each person’s journey is unique. Healthcare providers are there to help make the journey manageable and personalized.
• Dexcom G7 alternatives include other continuous glucose monitors like Freestyle Libre, Dexcom Stelo, and Eversense 365. Additional alternatives include blood glucose meters (fingersticks) such as Freestyle Lite and Contour Next One.
• Proper technique for blood glucose monitor devices is key to managing diabetes since devices differ in how they are set up and maintained. Connecting with diabetes education specialists and pharmacists can ease stress when learning about these devices.
• Achieving and maintaining control of diabetes can help lower the risk of long-term complications, including kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease, and vision loss.