The introduction of over-the-counter glucose sensors last year sparked a discussion on the benefits and drawbacks of these devices. The FDA cleared devices by Dexcom and Abbott with a broad indication, allowing anyone who does not take insulin to use them. At the American Diabetes Association’s Scientific Sessions, a pharmacist and a physician debated the usefulness of these devices for adults without diabetes.
Diana Isaacs, a pharmacist at the Cleveland Clinic, supported the accessibility of over-the-counter CGMs, highlighting their potential benefits for individuals without insurance coverage or easy access to a specialist for a prescription. On the other hand, David Ahn, an endocrinologist at Hoag Hospital, raised concerns about the accuracy and interpretation of data from these devices, especially in a narrower glucose range.
The discussion around over-the-counter CGMs is part of a larger conversation prompted by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s advocacy for widespread use of health wearables in the next few years.
Currently, Dexcom’s Stelo and Abbott’s Lingo are the two over-the-counter CGMs on the market. These devices offer a narrower range of glucose values compared to prescription CGMs and do not provide hypoglycemia alerts. While they focus on measuring glucose spikes, there are challenges in interpreting the data, especially for individuals without diabetes.
Isaacs argued in favor of over-the-counter CGMs based on the historical progression of diabetes devices becoming more accessible over time. She emphasized the potential benefits for individuals with prediabetes and gestational diabetes, as well as the educational value for people without diabetes in understanding the impact of lifestyle factors on glucose levels.
Overall, Isaacs believes that the benefits of over-the-counter CGMs outweigh the risks, offering a valuable tool for education and proactive health management. As the landscape of diabetes management continues to evolve, the accessibility and utility of these devices for a wider population could have a significant impact on public health.
