Dexcom G7 vs. FreeStyle Libre 3

Two cutting-edge continuous glucose monitoring systems have recently arrived in the US. If you’re curious about Dexcom G7 vs. FreeStyle Libre 3, here’s what you should know.

Are you thinking about getting your first continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system or switching to a new model? In either case, it makes sense to pick one of the latest systems on the market. New CGMs deliver increased accuracy, extended sensor lifespans, and exciting features that older models can’t compete with.Two of the hottest CGM systems on the market today are the Dexcom G7 CGM System and the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 System. Since both systems recently made a splash as their respective manufacturers’ newest CGM products, it could be tough to decide between them. If you’re currently in this situation, read on as the team at ADS takes a closer look at Dexcom G7 vs. FreeStyle Libre 3.

What Are Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems?

Before you can understand what separates the Dexcom G7 CGM System and the FreeStyle Libre 3 System, you’ll need to understand what these systems are. As their name suggests, continuous glucose monitoring systems measure a user’s glucose level throughout the day.

It’s important to note that even the most advanced CGMs can’t replace fingerprick tests 100 percent of the time. If you’re prompted to check your blood glucose level or find that your readings don’t align with your symptoms, you’ll still need to go through one of these tests. That said, a high-quality CGM can significantly reduce the amount of time you’ll spend manually testing your blood sugar.

Dexcom G7 vs. FreeStyle Libre Differences

Now that you’ve had a chance to read up on CGM systems in general, it’s time for the main event. Here, you’ll find a complete breakdown of the differences between the Dexcom G7 CGM System and the FreeStyle Libre 3 System.

Accuracy

MARD (or “mean absolute relative difference”) is the industry standard for measuring CGM accuracy. This statistic compares the accuracy levels of CGM systems to a fingerprick test—the lower the percentage, the more accurate the system in question is.

The Dexcom G7 CGM System’s MARD has been measured at 8.2 percent, almost one percent below its predecessor’s MARD. In contrast, the FreeStyle Libre 3 System has an even lower MARD of 7.9 percent.

Sensor Lifespan

The Dexcom G7 CGM System offers a 10-day sensor lifespan (not counting the system’s 12-hour-long “grace period” for sensor replacement). Dexcom CEO Kevin Sayer has stated that his company is exploring the possibility of introducing 15-day sensors in the future.

As was the case for previous FreeStyle Libre systems, the FreeStyle Libre 3 System offers a 14-day sensor lifespan. However, the sensors used in this system do not provide a grace period after this time has elapsed.

Warm-Up Period

In the past, Dexcom sensors took up to two hours to warm up before they were ready for use. This is no longer the case in the Dexcom G7 CGM System, which boasts a 30-minute sensor warm-up period. Meanwhile, the FreeStyle Libre 3 System’s 60-minute warm-up period falls between the Dexcom G7 CGM System and previous Dexcom systems.

Integrations

Thanks to Dexcom’s partnerships with Tandem Diabetes Care and Insulet, the Dexcom G7 CGM System retains compatibility with products from these businesses. Meanwhile, FreeStyle Libre 3 System (and FreeStyle Libre 2 System) sensors have received FDA approval for integration with automated insulin delivery systems. Abbott has also established integration partnerships with the companies mentioned above.

Reader

As has been the case for past Dexcom products, the Dexcom G7 CGM System allows users to view readings on either their smartphone or a dedicated reader. In contrast, the FreeStyle Libre 3 System only offers smartphone reading capabilities at present.

CGM Cost

Pricing for the Dexcom G7 CGM System varies from one insurance plan to the next. While not every plan covers this CGM, many do (including Medicare). Furthermore, coverage for the system is being added to plans on a regular basis. People with commercial insurance plans that do not cover the Dexcom G7 CGM System can buy this device for $89 per month via the Dexcom Simple Start program. If these plans eventually start covering the system, a patient’s monthly co-pay will automatically kick in.

According to Abbott, people with diabetes can start using the FreeStyle Libre 3 System for less than $40. Still, the actual cost to patients may vary. Right now, the FreeStyle Libre 3 System is ineligible for Medicare reimbursement. Medicaid eligibility for the device may vary on a state-to-state basis.

Dexcom G7 vs FreeStyle Libre 3 System Overview

For an at-a-glance look at the factors discussed above, refer to this convenient table:

Feature	Dexcom G7 CGM System	FreeStyle Libre 3 System
Accuracy	8.2%	7.9%
Sensor Lifespan	10 days	14 days
Sensor Grace Period	12 hours	N/A
Warm-Up Period	30 minutes	60 minutes
Integrations	Tandem and Insulet	FDA approval received for US integrations (partnerships with Tandem and Insulet in the works)
Reader	Smartphone or dedicated reader	Smartphone
Cost	$89/month through Dexcom Simple Start program	Less than $40

Insurance Coverage for Dexcom G7 or FreeStyle Libre

Insurance information

Get the Newest CGMs from Advanced Diabetes Supply

The Dexcom G7 CGM System and the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 System each have their own strengths and weaknesses. Still, both products are excellent options for most people with diabetes. By considering the factors listed above, you can decide which of these new CGM systems best fits your situation.

Are you planning to buy one of these CGMs soon? If so, you’re in luck—both the Dexcom G7 CGM System and the FreeStyle Libre 3 System are available through ADS. That means you can start your CGM journey or upgrade to the newest generation of CGM systems right now!