What is Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a way to track glucose levels throughout the day and night in real time. A small CGM sensor takes glucose measurements at regular intervals, up to 24 hours a day. A transmitter then sends the data to a display device via Bluetooth to show a current glucose value. The system also displays arrows that show the direction and speed glucose is changing.

Continuous data can help you proactively manage glucose highs and lows. Real time alerts can give added insight into what different factors affect your glucose levels in the moment. Learn how meals, exercise and insulin cause your glucose levels to change through the day.

The Difference is in the Data

Traditional blood glucose monitoring system

Blood Glucose Meter

Requires a fingerprick to display a reading of a single point in time with no additional context. Like looking at one picture in a camera roll.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Continuous readings in real time with no routine fingersticks* needed. See where your glucose is, where it’s heading, and how quickly it’s changing. Like watching a live stream of your glucose.

CGM vs. FGM

Looking to learn what glucose monitoring device might be right for you? From data visibility to customizable alerts, take a moment to see how Dexcom G6 compares to the FreeStyle Libre 2.

FreeStyle Libre vs. Dexcom G6 continuous glucose data visibility and alerts

Abbott FreeStyle Libre vs. Dexcom G6 remote glucose monitoring

FreeStyle Libre vs. Dexcom compatible pumps Canada

Abbott FreeStyle Libre vs. Dexcom G6 urgent alarm

How long does a Dexcom sensor last vs. FreeStyle Libre

FreeStyle Libre vs. Dexcom G6 insertion sites where to wear

Who Should Use CGM?

Do you frequently experience serious lows (<3.1 mmol/L)?

Do you often miss or are unaware of your lows?

Are you not at your A1C goals?

Dexcom G6 is a standard of care for people living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes on intensive insulin therapy. See how people across Canada are using Dexcom G6 to take control of their diabetes.

View Testimonials

CGM Now A Recommended Diabetes Management Tool

The 2021 Diabetes Canada Guidelines recommend real-time CGM^3,§ for diabetes management to help reduce A1C, reduce the duration and frequency of hypoglycemia, and increase time in range.^4-10

People Living with
Type 1 Diabetes

Those using basal-bolus insulin therapy or an insulin pump should be using real-time CGM.^§

People Living with
Type 2 Diabetes

It is recommended that real-time CGM may be used to improve glycemic levels in those using basal-bolus insulin therapy and are not yet at their A1C target.^§

Where Do I Start?

Whether you’re wondering how to order Dexcom G6 or want to try it for yourself, getting started is easy. You can try Dexcom G6 for up 10 days with the no-cost Hello Dexcom trial program.

Check to see if you’re eligible and get your free trial kit sent right to your door.

Check Eligibility

* If your glucose alerts and readings from the G6 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions.

† Requires the Follow App and an internet connection. Followers should always confirm readings on the Dexcom G6 App or Receiver before making treatment decisions.

‡ Provides a warning up to 20 minutes in advance of severe hypoglycemia (glucose levels at or below 3.1 mmol/L).

§ Recommendation requires the individual to be willing and able to use on a nearly daily basis.

|| For a list of compatible smart devices, please visit dexcom.com/compatibility.

¶ Back of upper arm wear is available for users 18 years and older.

1. Dexcom Using Your G6 Guide, 2021.

2. Freestyle Libre 2 User Guide & Freestyle LibreLink User Guide.

3. Cheng A, et al. Can J Diabetes. 2021;45:580-7.

4. Deiss D, et al. Diabetes Care. 2006;29:2730-2.

5. Beck RW, et al. JAMA. 2017;317:371-8.

6. Lind M, et al. JAMA. 2017;317:379-87.

7. Battelino T, et al. Diabetes Care. 2011;34:795-800.

8. Garg SK, et al. Diabetes Care. 2011;34:574-9.

9. Haskova A, et al. Diabetes Care. 2020;43(11):2744-50.

10. Heinemann L, et al. Lancet. 2018;391(10128):1367-77.