|
Comparison of the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7
What are the main differences in the technology?
The Dexcom G7 is an updated version of the popular G6 model and has modifications that make it easier to use and more comfortable to wear.
The new system has three components:
- a reader
- a combination sensor/transmitter
- an applicator
The G6 requires a separate transmitter that must be replaced every 3 months.
The G7 sensor/transmitter is more cosmetically appealing as it is 60% smaller than the G6. The sensor wire is also smaller in diameter and shorter. It is approved for children 2 years and older and adults including those over 65 years of age. There are no limitations on use during pregnancy. The G7 has a MARD (mean absolute relative difference) of 8.2% for adults, compared to 9.0% for the G6.
The G7 can be used with certain smartphones (see Compatibility Guide) or with the optional G7 receiver. A receiver is mandated (not optional) for Medicare coverage.
|
The sensor
- The G7 sensor can be applied to the upper arm for ages 2 and older and the upper arm or buttocks for ages 2-6. It is not recommended for application to the abdomen.
- Each new sensor is activated by entering the code on the side of the applicator into the receiver (reader or smartphone).
- The G7 warmup time is 30 minutes vs 2 hours for the G6.
- After insertion and activation, the sensor automatically begins sending readings after the 30-minute warmup. Readings are transmitted every 5 minutes.
- A new feature of the G7 is a grace period for the changing of the sensor. After receiving an alert on the 10-day expiration date, one is allowed an extra 12 hours to change the sensor.
- Transmission range between the sensor and receiver is 20 feet and beyond that readings may not be transmitted.
Apps
- The G7 system offers the G7 app, required for smartphone use. The Clarity app, intended for both personal and professional use, and the Dexcom Follow app that allows sharing of certain information (e.g., glucose readings and high or low alerts) with up to 10 other people.
- The G6 and G7 have different apps that are not interchangeable.
- Internet connectivity is required to share data though the Clarity app.
Alarms
- The G7 predictive Urgent Low Soon alert indicates that the blood sugar will drop below 55 mg/dL in 20 minutes. Other alert examples are low, high, and rising or falling fast.
- The sounds and alert settings are customizable.
The screen
- Glucose value is displayed and beside the number are arrows pointing up for rising, level for steady, and down for dropping.
- There is an adjustable trend graph showing 3, 6, 12, and 24-hour trends.
- From the home screen you have the option to go to the Clarity reports showing extensive data and trends up to 90 days.
Why pharmacists need to be involved
The new relaxed Medicare and insurance payment guidelines and increased awareness of the power of CGM to change the course of diabetes management for users will drive demand. More devices will be prescribed, often without the guarantee of optimal training and follow up. It is already evident that people are using CGM but not sharing data with their providers on a regular basis. Pharmacists should be able to help by learning the basics of the most popular devices. This Dexcom G7 Pharmacist video is a good example of pharmacist counselling points on the G7.
|
3MinuteExtraMile suggested action steps:
- Download the Dexcom G7 app. This will help familiarize you with the basic operations of the G7. You can see examples of what your patients are seeing as they manage their diabetes.
- Remind your G7 patients that they can’t have a CT scan, MRI, or Diathermy treatment while wearing the sensor. A CT scan is permissible if the sensor is covered with a lead apron or is outside the scanned area.
- Advise patients that doses of acetaminophen below the maximum of 1000 mg every 6 hours will not affect the G7. Hydroxyurea (and acetaminophen doses above 1000 mg every 6 hours) will cause readings to appear higher than they really are. Patients taking hydroxyurea should not use the G7 for treatment decisions and should consult their provider for advice.
- Be prepared to explain why, when using a blood glucose meter (BGM) to verify a CGM reading, the readings may not match, especially when glucose is changing rapidly.
- Study some examples of reports. For example, get familiar with Time In Range report so that you can spot troublesome areas such as excess time below range. Ask your patients if they need help in interpreting data.
Resources
Danatech (educator’s site)
Diabetes Wise Pro (all the diabetes technology here)
Dexcom G7 Pharmacist video
Dexcom G7 Optional Receiver
Dexcom User Guides
Dexcom Clarity User Guide
James Bennett BSPharm, BCGP, CDCES
Bozeman MT
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services does not endorse any, specific diabetes product. This is for informational purposes only.
Please share with colleagues and encourage them to Click to subscribe
|
|
|
|
