{"id":58532,"date":"2023-05-17T11:21:14","date_gmt":"2023-05-17T15:21:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=58532"},"modified":"2025-10-17T09:58:44","modified_gmt":"2025-10-17T13:58:44","slug":"dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre\/","title":{"rendered":"Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre: Differences, similarities, and which one is better for you"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/type-1-vs-type-2-diabetes\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> monitor their blood sugar at home. Some use a blood glucose meter, while others prefer a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Two popular CGM systems are the Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre models.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/diabetes-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is associated with various long-term complications, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/diabetes-complications\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">nerve damage, kidney problems, vision loss,<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and others. Keeping glucose levels in the target (goal) range as much as possible helps prevent or delay these long-term complications. A CGM lets patients monitor glucose levels constantly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While a blood glucose meter analyzes glucose levels from the blood, a CGM analyzes glucose from interstitial fluid, the spaces around cells just beneath the skin. With the CGM, a small sensor (with a transmitter) is inserted into the skin, and the transmitter sends data to a receiver or mobile app on your smartphone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre CGMs are similar in that they continuously monitor glucose, they also have some differences. Continue reading to learn more about both types of CGMs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A word of caution: although this article will outline basic information, similarities, and differences between these CGMs, it is essential to read the full user guide for the CGM you choose. The user guide contains detailed information that is specific to the model you use.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"cgm-benefits\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CGM benefits<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regardless of which CGM you choose, there are many <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/drugs\/11444-glucose-continuous-glucose-monitoring#risks--benefits\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">benefits to using a CGM<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seeing a complete picture of how glucose levels change over time and how they are affected by factors like food, exercise, illness, and stress<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Providing detailed information that your healthcare professional can download and analyze for patterns and trends, which helps guide treatment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alerting you to high and low glucose levels so you can act right away to get your glucose back into the target range<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Significantly reducing finger sticks<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-uses\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre uses<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both the Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre require a prescription. All models of these CGMs can be used to monitor glucose in people with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/gestational-diabetes-diet-treatments\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">gestational diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Additionally, anyone who needs to or wants to monitor glucose can consult their healthcare professional for a prescription for a CGM. For example, people with prediabetes have blood sugar that is elevated, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. In these individuals, using a CGM can be very helpful in seeing the effects of certain foods, exercise, and other factors. There is also the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stelo.com\/en-us\/how-it-works\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom Stelo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> available, which is a CGM that can be purchased without a prescription through the Dexcom website. This product is for adults 18 years and older who do not use insulin. For this article, we will discuss the Dexcom and Libre products available by prescription.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"3\">\n<h2 id=\"dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre-uses\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre uses<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<th><b>Condition<\/b><\/th>\n<th><b>Dexcom\u00a0<\/b><\/th>\n<th><b>FreeStyle Libre<\/b><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type 1 diabetes continuous glucose monitoring<\/span><\/th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type 2 diabetes continuous glucose monitoring<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gestational diabetes monitoring<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-models\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre Models<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom is available as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g6-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (this version will eventually be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dexcom.com\/faqs\/is-dexcom-g6-discontinuing-with-g7-launch\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">phased out<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but an expected date is not yet available)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g7-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G7<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FreeStyle Libre, made by Abbott, is available as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/freestyle-libre-2-plus-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/freestyle-libre-3-plus-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Previous versions of the Libre are being <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.freestyle.abbott\/us-en\/transition.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">phased out<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-long-does-each-sensor-last-and-is-there-a-warm-up-period\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long does each sensor last, and is there a warm-up period?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each Dexcom G6 sensor lasts for 10 days. The transmitter (which sends the data) must be removed from the sensor with each sensor change and placed into a new sensor, which lasts for 90 days. The app will alert you when it\u2019s time to change your sensor and\/or transmitter. Once inserted, the Dexcom G6 takes two hours to warm up. If you need to check your sugar during this time, you can use your blood glucose meter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the Dexcom G7, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g7-sensor\/what-is\">the sensor and transmitter are one unit<\/a>. The G7 is about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabeteseducator.org\/danatech\/glucose-monitoring\/continuous-glucose-monitors-(cgm)\/cgm-selection-training\/dexcom-g7-libre-3-comparison\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">60% smaller<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than the G6 sensor. When you change your sensor, throw it out and apply a new sensor\/transmitter unit. You do not need to remove the transmitter and move it to a new sensor. The G7 takes 30 minutes to warm up (it starts warming up as soon as it is applied) and lasts 10 days, plus an additional 12-hour grace period.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once scanned, FreeStyle Libre systems take one hour to warm up and last 15 days.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, Dexcom and FreeStyle CGMs are waterproof. You can swim or shower with your CGM on.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"5\">\n<h2 id=\"comparing-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre-sensors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comparing Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre sensors<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td><b>Dexcom G6<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Dexcom G7<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>How long does the sensor last?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 days (transmitter lasts 90 days and must be moved to the new sensor with each sensor change)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 days (transmitter and sensor are one unit) + 12-hour grace period<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15 days<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15 days<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>How long is the warm-up period?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">30 minutes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1 hour<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1 hour<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Is the <\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><b>CGM waterproof?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"what-age-can-dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-be-used\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What age can Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre be used?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Dexcom G6 or Dexcom G7 can be used in adults and children two years and older. A newer <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dexcom.com\/g7-15-day-sensor-fda#know\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G7 15-day<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sensor is expected to be available later this year, but will only be approved in adults 18 years and older with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes. The existing G7 will continue to be available for adults and children two years and older.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and 3 Plus systems can be used in adults and children aged two years and older.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"where-do-i-place-the-sensor-on-my-skin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where do I place the sensor on my skin?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regardless of which CGM you use, it\u2019s best to rotate sites (use a new site) whenever you change your sensor. This allows your skin to heal. Also, choose a site that\u2019s at least three inches from your pump site or any injection sites and away from any scarring, tattoos, or irritation. Choose a site that is unlikely to be bumped or lain on while sleeping.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dexcom.com\/en-gb\/faqs\/where-can-i-insert-my-g6-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G6 sensor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is approved to be used on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The abdomen (ages 2 years and older)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The upper buttocks (ages 2 to 17 years)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dexcom.com\/en-CA\/faqs\/g7\/where-can-i-insert-my-dexcom-g7-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G7 sensor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is approved to be used on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The back of the upper arm\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The upper buttocks (ages 2 to 6 years)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/freestyle-libre-3-plus-sensor\/what-is\">FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and 3 Plus sensors<\/a> are approved to be used on the back of the upper arm. However, there has been <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34931427\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">some research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that shows other sites can also be accurate, even though they are not approved for use. You can ask your healthcare provider for medical guidance if you want to wear a sensor in a location not recommended by the manufacturer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-often-do-dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-check-glucose\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How often do Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre check glucose?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both Dexcom models automatically provide updated glucose readings every 5 minutes. The reading is sent to the receiver, smartphone app, and\/or compatible insulin pump.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and 3 Plus automatically send updated glucose readings to the receiver (reader), smartphone app, and\/or compatible insulin pump every minute.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CGMs have a few minutes of \u201clag time,\u201d meaning it can take a few minutes for the glucose level in the interstitial fluid to catch up with your blood glucose. Any time you think that the CGM data may not be accurate, you should do a finger stick just to make sure that the CGM data is correct. An example would be if you feel symptoms of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/low-blood-sugar-symptoms\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypoglycemia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (low blood sugar) like dizziness, shakiness, and hunger, but your glucose data shows a normal or high reading. You may also need to manually check your blood sugar when your CGM is warming up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that not all insulin pumps are compatible with all CGMs. For up-to-date information about CGM and pump compatibility with your specific devices, contact Dexcom, Abbott, or your pump manufacturer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-kind-of-alarms-do-the-dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-have\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What kind of alarms do the Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre have?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Read the user manual thoroughly before using your CGM. It is very important to familiarize yourself with the alarm settings and features of your CGM. Alarms enable you to keep tight control over your glucose. They can help you react to a high sugar or remind you to eat something when you start to go low. You can often \u201ccatch\u201d a low before it gets too low and prevent dangerous lows.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Examples of alarm features include:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G6 and G7:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can customize alert settings and sounds.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can turn off alert sounds or set it to vibrate, but even in vibrate mode, urgent low glucose and technical alarms (such as signal loss) will still sound if the notification is not acknowledged. So, it is still important to look at the phone to see other alarms.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can set critical alerts, such as urgent low glucose, to override the smartphone&#8217;s do-not-disturb and mute functions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus and 3 Plus:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Real-time alarms are based on readings that are checked every minute.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can choose high, low, and signal loss alarms, but the urgent low glucose alarm (55 mg\/dL) is mandatory and cannot be turned off. To get urgent alarms, you must first start the sensor with your phone.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A signal loss alarm notifies you when glucose alarms are not available.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"coverage-and-cost-comparison-of-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coverage and cost comparison of Dexcom vs. FreeStyle Libre<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to find out about coverage and out-of-pocket costs is to check with your health insurance provider or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/does-medicare-cover-freestyle-libre\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medicare<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prescription plan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also check the manufacturer&#8217;s websites or call the manufacturer to ask about ways to save.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom offers a patient assistance program to people who meet certain income eligibility requirements. The manufacturer&#8217;s website also has more information about a free trial and other savings opportunities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/save-freestyle-libre-singlecare\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FreeStyle Libre<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may offer a free trial of the Libre 2 Plus or 3 Plus systems. Contact Abbott via the Libre website for more information on the trial or other discounts and savings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can always use a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription-discount-card\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare card<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to save on the cost of your CGM prescriptions and refills, too. For example,\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A one-month supply (3 sensors) of Dexcom G6 sensors costs about $546, but a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g6-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can bring the cost down to as low as $314.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Dexcom G6 transmitter, which lasts 90 days, has an out-of-pocket cost of about $365, but a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g6-transmitter\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can bring the cost down to about $185.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A one-month supply (3 sensors) of Dexcom G7 sensors costs about $572, but using a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/dexcom-g7-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can bring the cost down to about $321. (You do not need to buy transmitters with the G7 sensors as they are already part of the sensor.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A one-month supply of FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus (2 sensors) costs about $228 if you pay out of pocket, but a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/freestyle-libre-2-plus-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can bring the price down to $153.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A one-month supply of FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus (2 sensors) costs about $234 if you pay out of pocket, but a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/freestyle-libre-3-plus-sensor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can bring the price down to $153.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"3\">\n<h2 id=\"comparing-the-cost-of-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comparing the cost of Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td><b>Dexcom G7<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Typically covered by Medicare prescription plans?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Example: Dexcom G 7 (3 sensors for a 30-day supply)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Example: FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus (2 sensors for a 30-day supply)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Out-of-pocket cost<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$572<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$234<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$321<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$153<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"common-side-effects-of-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who use CGMs may experience local skin reactions, such as itching, irritation, redness, and swelling. Often, these go away as your body gets used to the sensor. Some will experience scarring and lumpy skin. It\u2019s very important to rotate the sensor site with each sensor change. Doing so will help minimize reactions. If skin problems are severe, bothersome, or persist, consult your healthcare professional for medical advice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"do-any-medications-or-substances-interfere-with-dexcom-or-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do any medications or substances interfere with Dexcom or FreeStyle Libre?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When choosing a CGM, tell your healthcare provider about all your medications, including prescription drugs, OTC medicines, and vitamins or supplements.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you take the medicine <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/hydroxyurea\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hydroxyurea<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you should not use <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dexcom.com\/interference\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to make diabetes treatment decisions. In this case, you should consult your healthcare provider about a different way to monitor your sugar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking more than the maximum recommended doses of acetaminophen (the ingredient found in Tylenol, as well as in many over-the-counter cough, flu, and cold medications) can falsely raise your Dexcom readings, making you possibly miss low glucose events. If you take Tylenol, consult your healthcare provider for medical advice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When using a FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus or 3 Plus CGM, know that vitamin C as well as salicylic acid (found in aspirin and related products) can affect your glucose readings. Check with your healthcare provider for medical advice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk with your healthcare provider about potential interactions with your CGM that could affect your glucose readings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"3\">\n<h2 id=\"dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre-interactions\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><b>Drug<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>May interfere with Dexcom readings?<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>May interfere with FreeStyle Libre readings?<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/hydroxyurea\/what-is\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hydroxyurea<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/acetaminophen-extra-strength\/what-is\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acetaminophen<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vitamin C<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Salicylic acid (aspirin)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-dexcom-vs-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently asked questions about Dexcom vs. FreeStyle Libre<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"are-dexcom-and-freestyle-libre-the-same\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre the same?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although they both continuously monitor glucose, they have some differences, as outlined above, such as cost, warm-up time, and how long they can stay on the body.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-dexcom-or-freestyle-libre-while-pregnant\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use Dexcom or FreeStyle Libre while pregnant?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dexcom G6 and G7, and FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus or 3 Plus can be used while pregnant. Consult your healthcare provider for more information about glucose monitoring during pregnancy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-dexcom-or-freestyle-libre-with-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use Dexcom or FreeStyle Libre with alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While drinking alcohol will not interfere with the mechanism of the CGMs, alcohol is known to cause <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mountsinai.org\/health-library\/selfcare-instructions\/diabetes-and-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low blood sugar<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can happen quickly. The risk of low blood sugar is higher if you use insulin, take certain diabetes medications, or drink on an empty stomach. If you drink alcohol, talk with your healthcare provider about safe alcohol consumption.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"which-is-more-accurate-dexcom-or-freestyle-libre\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which is more accurate, Dexcom or FreeStyle Libre?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both types of CGMs can be very helpful in monitoring glucose levels. They are also accurate, especially the newest models (Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus), which are even more accurate than previous versions. Talk with your healthcare provider about which CGM is better for you. You may also want to check with your insurance company if cost is a concern, as some insurance companies may prefer one CGM over another and charge a lower price.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"how-much-does-dexcom-cost-per-month\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much does Dexcom cost per month?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It depends on which system you get (the G6 or G7) and your insurance coverage. The price varies based on these factors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the G6, you will need one box of three sensors every month, and one transmitter every 3 months. The out-of-pocket cost of a one-month supply (3 sensors) of Dexcom G6 sensors is about $546\u2014and a Dexcom G6 transmitter, which lasts 90 days, has an out-of-pocket cost of about $365.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the G7, the sensor and transmitter are combined, so you will only need three sensors every month. The out-of-pocket cost of a one-month supply (3 sensors) of Dexcom G7 sensors costs about $572.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may also need to purchase a receiver, which displays your glucose values, or you can use an app on your smartphone.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>People with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes monitor their blood sugar at home. Some use a blood glucose meter, while others prefer a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Two popular CGM systems are the Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre models.\u00a0 Diabetes is associated with various long-term complications, such as nerve damage, kidney problems, vision loss, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":133,"featured_media":633791,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[10298,16413],"coauthors":[10668],"class_list":["post-58532","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-diabetes","tag-singlecare-stats","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Dexcom and Freestyle Libre are used to monitor glucose levels, but they are not exactly the same. 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