Dexcom vs Freestyle Libre Bluetooth Enabled Continuous Glucose Monitors
If you have diabetes, you know that managing your blood glucose levels is essential. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) make this task easier by providing real-time data on your glucose levels. Dexcom and Freestyle Libre are two popular CGMs that use Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone or other devices. In this post, we'll compare these devices to help you decide which one might be right for you.
Design and Wearability
Both Dexcom and Freestyle Libre are small, wearable devices that attach to your skin to measure your glucose levels. However, they have different designs that may affect your preference. Dexcom is a small, circular sensor that attaches to your skin with an adhesive patch. It transmits data to a separate receiver or your smartphone via Bluetooth. Freestyle Libre, on the other hand, looks like a small, square sticker that attaches to your skin. It has a built-in sensor and a reader that you wave over the sticker to get your glucose readings.
Verdict: It's a matter of personal preference
Both devices are discreet and comfortable to wear, but it's up to you to decide which design you prefer.
Accuracy and Performance
The accuracy and performance of a CGM are critical to its effectiveness. Dexcom and Freestyle Libre have both been shown to be accurate in several studies.
Dexcom
Dexcom has been shown to have a mean absolute difference (MAD) of 9.0 mg/dL compared to laboratory measurements. It also has a 20/20 rule, which means that 99% of readings are within 20 mg/dL of the actual glucose level. Dexcom's sensors can be worn for up to 10 days.
Freestyle Libre
Freestyle Libre has a MAD of around 10.2 mg/dL compared to laboratory measurements. It also has a 15/15 rule, which means that 99% of readings are within 15 mg/dL of the actual glucose level. Freestyle Libre's sensors can be worn for up to 14 days.
Verdict: It's a close call
Both devices are accurate and perform well, but Freestyle Libre has a slight advantage with its 15/15 rule.
Integration and Connectivity
Both Dexcom and Freestyle Libre use Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone or other devices. However, they have different features when it comes to integration and connectivity.
Dexcom
Dexcom is compatible with a wide range of devices, including both iOS and Android smartphones, the Apple Watch, and some insulin pumps, making it easy to integrate into your daily life. The Dexcom app allows you to share your glucose data with up to 10 people, making it a great choice for parents or caregivers.
Freestyle Libre
Freestyle Libre is only compatible with certain smartphones and does not support insulin pump integration. However, it also has an app that allows you to view your glucose readings and track trends over time.
Verdict: Dexcom wins
While both devices use Bluetooth technology and allow for remote monitoring, Dexcom's compatibility with a wider range of devices and insulin pumps make it a more versatile choice for most users.
Pricing
The cost of CGMs can be a significant factor, especially for those who do not have insurance coverage.
Dexcom
Dexcom's sensors cost around $350 for a pack of three, and the receiver costs around $500. The Dexcom G7, the latest version of the device, is not yet available in all countries.
Freestyle Libre
Freestyle Libre's sensors cost around $120 for a pack of two, and the reader costs around $70.
Verdict: Freestyle Libre wins
While Dexcom's sensors are more expensive, they do last longer than Freestyle Libre's sensors. However, the cost of the receiver for Dexcom pushes its overall cost higher. For those on a tight budget, Freestyle Libre may be the more affordable option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Dexcom and Freestyle Libre are excellent Bluetooth-enabled CGMs that can significantly improve glucose management for people with diabetes. Both devices have their unique features and benefits, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs. We hope this comparison has been informative and helped you make an informed decision.
References
- Bailey, T. et al. (2015). Accuracy and User Performance Evaluation of a New Automated Insulin Delivery System Incorporating a Rapid-Acting Analog. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology. (9)4, 1026–31. doi: 10.1177/1932296815599679
- Danne, T. et al. (2017). Accuracy and User Acceptance of the Patch Insulin Pump: A Multicenter Study. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics. 19(3), 171-177. doi: 10.1089/dia.2016.0385
- Bailey, T. et al. (2015). Accuracy of a New, Factory-Calibrated, Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring System, FreeStyle Libre, in Pediatric and Adult Population with Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 18(11), 683–689. doi: 10.1089/dia.2015.0378