Dexcom, Inc. is a medical device company known for the creation of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices. It specializes in enabling people to learn about their glucose levels with the use of wearable devices and connected technologies.
In contrast to conventional blood glucose tests that produce one-time measurements of glucose levels, continuous glucose monitoring can track changes in glucose throughout the day in response to food intake, physical activity, medicine, sleep, and other factors.
Dexcom has already become a recognized player in the sphere of digital health and diabetes technologies. Its products are based on the combination of wearables, mobile applications, connectivity, and glucose monitoring technology.
Businesses and technology experts can find the work of Dexcom very interesting from the perspective of medical devices and software connectivity.
What Is Dexcom, Inc.?
Dexcom, Inc. is a medical device company based in San Diego, California. Its main products include continuous glucose monitoring systems that allow for real-time and near-real-time glucose information.
According to the company itself, its mission can be formulated in terms of the use of glucose monitoring technology for diabetes management. The products of Dexcom are used by diabetic patients and other users who are interested in glucose monitoring, depending on the product and regulatory authorization.
Generally, the company’s technology includes three elements interconnected with each other:
- An implanted glucose sensor
- A transmitter or an integrated sensor system
- A compatible receiver or a mobile application
These tools allow for viewing the information concerning glucose levels on digital displays.
What Does Dexcom Do?
Dexcom specializes in the development of glucose monitoring devices.
The company produces devices that allow for the measurement of glucose levels with the help of the sensor inserted into the skin. The sensor tracks information about glucose levels and sends it to the compatible display or mobile device.
It allows users to see the trends instead of making occasional measurements of glucose levels.
| Dexcom Technology | Main Function |
| Wearable sensor | Collects glucose measurements |
| Mobile application | Displays glucose information |
| Alerts | Can notify users about selected glucose conditions |
| Data sharing | Allows authorized users to share information |
| Digital ecosystem | Connects glucose data with compatible technology |
Exact features vary by product, market, age group, and regulatory authorization.
How Dexcom CGM Technology Works
A standard CGM system consists of several steps.
Placement of the sensor
A small sensor is placed under the skin based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Glucose detection
The sensor measures glucose concentration in interstitial fluid.
Data transfer
The system transfers glucose data to the compatible display device.
Data visualization
Users have access to glucose values and trends via a compatible receiver or application.
Alerts and insights
Based on the product, users will have access to alerts and insights related to their glucose trends.
Dexcom G7
Dexcom G7 is one of the best continuous glucose monitoring products.
G7 is described by the manufacturer as a real-time CGM system aimed at delivering glucose readings and alerts through compatible devices.
This technology makes it possible for people to monitor glucose without taking multiple traditional blood glucose tests.
Availability of indications and other features can differ depending on a country and patient population.
Dexcom G7 15 Days
Another product of Dexcom, G7 15 Days, extends the sensor wear period for eligible patients in the markets that are authorized for this product.
A longer sensor wear period makes it possible to reduce the number of sensor replacements.
Indications, availability, and other particular features of G7 15 Days can differ depending on a market.
What is Stelo?
Stelo is also one of the Dexcom glucose biosensing products.
According to the manufacturer, Stelo is an OTC glucose biosensor that can be used by adults who do not use insulin and who are eligible to use this product. (dexcom.com)
As opposed to traditional CGM systems, which are used only for diabetes management, Stelo helps eligible patients understand the glucose response to various daily activities like meals and physical activity.
The availability and authorized use of Stelo can differ depending on the market.
Dexcom and Digital Health
This example shows how healthcare becomes increasingly interconnected.
Components of a typical CGM may include:
Wearable device – Sensor – Mobile application – Cloud-connected data – Health insights
This technology creates a digital health ecosystem, not just another medical device.
Connected health technology makes health information easily available for users while providing opportunities for healthcare providers and tech companies to develop new technologies.
Dexcom and Diabetes Management
The main focus of technology developed by Dexcom has been diabetes management.
Individuals who have diabetes can use CGM along with other elements of diabetes treatment strategy.
Medical professionals can use trends in glucose levels to help their patients make decisions based on patterns.
It is important that glucose management is not about the glucose level at the moment but the whole picture of glucose trends over time.
For instance, there may be two people who have the same glucose level, but the glucose level of one of them is increasing, while the glucose level of another person is decreasing.
Trend indicators can add important information.
Dexcom Mobile Applications
Mobile applications are important elements of Dexcom’s connected technology ecosystem.
Depending on the particular product, the user can use their smartphone to view glucose levels, trends, alerts, and historical information.
In addition, some Dexcom systems allow data sharing with authorized individuals.
In case the user needs to share information with their caregivers or family members, this feature will come in handy provided that particular product allows it.
Dexcom Data and Connected Healthcare
The most exciting thing about Dexcom’s technology is how medical-device data becomes digital information.
Once glucose information becomes electronic data, it can be potentially integrated into other approved digital health ecosystems.
It provides opportunities for:
- Remote monitoring
- Digital health applications
- Health analytics
- Personalized insights
- Caregiver connectivity
- Research
- Healthcare technology innovation
Nevertheless, it should be kept in mind that health data is sensitive information.
Dexcom’s Role in Healthcare Technology
Dexcom operates at the intersection of several technology industries.
| Industry | Dexcom Connection |
| Medical devices | Wearable glucose sensors |
| Digital health | Connected health applications |
| Software | Mobile and data platforms |
| Wearable technology | Sensor-based monitoring |
| Data analytics | Glucose trends and historical data |
| Healthcare | Diabetes management |
| Consumer technology | Smartphone connectivity |
Benefits of CGM Technology
There could be several benefits from CGM devices.
Continuous Information
The system provides access to glucose information continuously throughout the day instead of occasional readings.
Trend Information
Trend information allows understanding whether glucose is going up or down.
Alerts
Depending on the product, the user can get certain notifications about glucose levels.
Historical Data
The historical data will help to find the pattern of the glucose fluctuations.
Connected Monitoring
The system allows authorized persons to have access to the glucose information.
These features could be helpful for diabetes control; however, it is important to consult a doctor on the application of the system.
Dexcom vs Traditional Glucose Testing
CGM and glucose testing have their own purposes.
| Feature | CGM | Traditional Meter |
| Measurement frequency | Continuous/regular readings | Individual tests |
| Wearable sensor | Yes | No |
| Trend information | Yes | Limited |
| Alerts | Available on some systems | Usually not continuous |
| Smartphone connectivity | Available with compatible systems | Depends on meter |
| Long-term data | Yes | Can be stored electronically |
CGM is not always able to replace other ways of glucose measuring.
It all depends on the individual, their health problems, and medical advice.
Is Dexcom for Diabetics Only?
The main activity of Dexcom was diabetes management. However, nowadays, the portfolio of the company has widen significantly.
For instance, Stelo is intended for adult patients who are not taking insulin and is considered an over-the-counter glucose biosensor in the USA. (dexcom.com)
Nevertheless, it is necessary to note that not all the products of Dexcom could fit every person.
Indications and availability of each product are different.
In case of any question related to the use of the technology for medical needs, it is recommend to consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dexcom, Inc.?
Dexcom, Inc. is a company that specializes in the design and production of continuous glucose monitoring systems and other digital health technologies.
What is Dexcom famous for?
The most recognizable Dexcom product is continuous glucose monitoring technology, such as the Dexcom G7 system.
What is Dexcom G7?
The Dexcom G7 system is a continuous glucose monitoring system that provides glucose data and trends on compatible devices.
What is Stelo by Dexcom?
Stelo is a non-prescription glucose biosensor design by Dexcom for eligible adults who do not use insulin.
Can Dexcom replace a glucose meter?
Maybe, but it depends on the product. According to the manufacturer and doctor’s recommendations, you may oblige to conduct regular glucose measurements using conventional methods.
Is Dexcom data visible on a smartphone?
Certain Dexcom-compatible products show glucose information on a smartphone with a special application.
Is Dexcom a technology company?
From a strict technical standpoint, it is a medical technology company; however, this company produces medical devices, software, mobile applications, connectivity, and data technology.
Conclusion
Dexcom, Inc. is a recognized brand of continuous glucose monitoring and connected healthcare technology. This company uses wearables, software, and connectivity solutions to help customers get more glucose information and trends. Dexcom G7 and Stelo are just two examples of continuous glucose monitoring technology adoption among different users and healthcare scenarios.
This company’s technologies are an example of the development of healthcare devices that are gradually becoming more connected with smartphones, software, cloud technologies, and digital health platforms. At the same time, consumers need to understand that some products’ appropriateness may depend on the patient’s condition and licensing in the specific country.
For businesspeople and technology enthusiasts, this company is an excellent example of how medical devices and digital technology can come together to create connected healthcare solutions.
