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Dexcom G7 and Stelo: Key Differences and Insights

The new over-the-counter biosensor from dexcom is now available. Here's what you need to know about the new product and how it differs from other Dexcom's CGM Devices.

Cowritten by: ADCES staff and subject matter expert faculty

September 2024

Key Learnings From This Article:
  • Target Audience: The Stelo is designed for adults (18+) who do not use insulin or experience hypoglycemia, including those with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or even individuals without diabetes. In contrast, the Dexcom G7 is meant for insulin-dependent users and those requiring real-time alerts.
  • Differences in Features: The Stelo lacks alerts and alarms for high or low glucose, making it unsuitable for insulin users or those managing hypoglycemia. It also has a longer wear time (15 days vs. 10 for the G7) and is available over-the-counter, unlike the prescription-required G7.
  • Use Cases and Pricing: The Stelo is ideal for lifestyle tracking, offering glucose insights for users without diabetes, and is priced at $99 for two sensors. It can be purchased without a prescription, making it accessible for a broader audience, but does not integrate with insulin delivery systems like the G7 does.

With the introduction of the Stelo by Dexcom, an over-the-counter glucose biosensor, people with diabetes, healthcare providers, and individuals without diabetes or prediabetes are curious about how it differs from the Dexcom G7. This article breaks down the critical differences and similarities between the two devices, helping you understand who each product is designed for and what your patients might be interested in learning about this new technology.

Importantly, Who Is the Stelo For?

The Stelo is primarily designed for adults aged 18 and older who do not use insulin or who do not experience hypoglycemia. It is appropriate for people with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes who do not meet the eligibility for a CGM prescription, or even those without diabetes who are interested in tracking how various factors—like diet, stress, and exercise—affect their glucose levels. Unlike the G7, which is a full-featured continuous glucose monitor (CGM) used by people with insulin-dependent diabetes, the Stelo offers a simpler option without the need for a prescription.

Similarities Between the Stelo and Dexcom G7

For those familiar with the G7, some aspects of the Stelo will be recognizable.

Same Warm-up Time: The warm-up time is 30 minutes.

Grace Period: There is a12 hour grace period for both the Stelo and the G7.

Same Platform: The Stelo is built on the same platform as the G7.

Approved Placement Locations: Both devices can be placed on the back of the arm.

Healthcare Provider App: Healthcare providers can monitor users’ data through the Clarity app, just as they can with the G7.

Smartphone Connectivity: Both devices allow users to view their glucose data on compatible smartphones.
Apple Health Integration: Both devices sync with Apple Health, making it easier to track overall health metrics.

Insertion Process: The insertion process is identical, using either a four-digit code or a QR code provided with each sensor.  

Key Differences Between the Stelo and G7

While the Stelo shares a platform with the G7, the differences are significant, particularly for people managing diabetes with insulin. Here’s what sets the Stelo apart:

Wear Time: The Stelo is approved for a 15-day wear time versus the 10-day wear time of the Dexcom G7. Both have a 12-hour grace period. It is noted that this 15-day wear time may not be true for all of the Stelo sensors, Dexcom reports that 20% of the sensors may not last the full 15 days.

No Alerts and Alarms: The Stelo does not provide real-time alerts or alarms for high or low glucose levels. This makes it unsuitable for individuals who rely on these features to manage hypoglycemia or other urgent glucose-related issues.

Not for Insulin Users: The Stelo is not designed for people who use insulin. Without alerts and alarms, it cannot safely manage the needs of insulin-dependent users like the Dexcom G7.

Age Restrictions: The Stelo is approved for individuals 18 years and older, while the G7 is approved for ages 2 and up.

Over-the-Counter Availability: Unlike the G7, which requires a prescription, the Stelo is available without a prescription directly from stelo.com and will soon be available in pharmacies. It is not covered by insurance, but users can use their FSA/HSA benefits to pay for the sensors.

Unique App Features: The Stelo’s app offers detailed insights and education into glucose levels, target ranges, glucose spike alerts (glucose rise of >3 points/minute) and trajectories, and the ability to log reason and notes on circumstances around these spikes. Education to help users understand the impact of food, stress, and exercise and tips to lower glucose spikes is also provided  .

Target Glucose Range: The Stelo targets a glucose range of 70–140 mg/dL for people without diabetes, aiming for 96% time in range (TIR). For people with type 2 diabetes, the target range is 70–180 mg/dL, with a TIR goal of over 70% (like the G7).

Glucose Reading Range: The Stelo reads glucose levels between 70 and 250 mg/dL, displaying “below 70” or “above 250” for readings outside this range. In contrast, the G7 reads between 40 and 400 mg/dL.

User Profile Options: Users can select from No Diabetes, Diabetes, and Prediabetes when setting up their profile, tailoring the experience to their specific needs.

Insulin Pump or connected insulin pen Integration: The Stelo cannot be linked with any insulin pumps or connected pens, unlike the G7, which can be integrated with certain insulin delivery systems.

Considerations for Hypoglycemia Management

Since the Stelo lacks alerts and alarms, it is not a safe option for people who experience hypoglycemia who rely on real-time alerts to manage low glucose levels. These individuals should continue to use a CGM like the G7, which provides the necessary alerts and is typically covered by insurance for those with documented hypoglycemia.

Stelo’s Appeal to Users without Diabetes

One of the key appeals of the Stelo is its accessibility. Unlike the G7, which requires a prescription, the Stelo is available over-the-counter, making it an attractive option for people interested in tracking their glucose levels without navigating the complexities of a medical prescription. The Stelo is particularly appealing to individuals without diabetes who want to better understand how lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and exercise affect their glucose levels. With its user-friendly app offering insights, education on glucose spikes, and the ability to log notes about different situations, it’s a tool designed to empower users to take control of their health.

The Stelo’s target glucose range for those without diabetes is between 70–140 mg/dL, aiming for 96% time in range (TIR). For individuals with type 2 diabetes, the target range is 70–180 mg/dL, with a goal of over 70% TIR, much like the G7. However, the Stelo has a more limited glucose reading range—between 70 and 250 mg/dL—whereas the G7 provides readings between 40 and 400 mg/dL.

Stelo Pricing and Payment 

The Stelo is available for $99.00/2 sensors (30-day total wear time) when purchased as a one-time event or $89.00/2 sensors (30-day total wear time) when purchased as a monthly subscription. Individuals can use their FSA/HSA benefits to pay for the sensors.

The Dexcom G7 and the Stelo, Two Unique Devices 

The Dexcom Stelo and G7 cater to different needs in glucose monitoring for different populations. While the G7 remains the go-to device for those managing insulin-dependent diabetes with its real-time alerts and comprehensive data, the Stelo offers an option for those individuals with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes who are not eligible for the G7, as well as those without diabetes who are curious about their glucose levels. Stelo’s over-the-counter availability and ease of use make it an appealing choice for lifestyle tracking, though it lacks the safety features required by insulin users and those who need alerts. As more people seek to understand their health data, devices like the Stelo will play an important role in making glucose monitoring more available and user-friendly.

Stelo by Dexcom and Dexcom G7: Key Specs

 Stelo by DexcomDexcom G7
Sensor Duration15 days (plus 12-hour grace period)10 days (plus 12-hour grace period)
Warm-Up Time30 minutes30 minutes
ReadingsAutomatic readings every five minutesAutomatic readings every five minutes
Accuracy8.3%8.2% MARD
Transmitter Sensor Size1.1 x 0.9 x 0.2 in
1.1 x 0.9 x 0.2 in
Pump CompatibilityNone

    iCGM capable of integration

    Dexcom partners are working to integrate G7 into their apps and systems. In the meantime, Dexcom recommends that you continue using Dexcom G6 until G7 is compatible with your preferred insulin delivery system and digital health apps. 

    Transmitter Range 20'20'
    Approved for the following:For individuals 18 years and older who do not take insulin or experience problematic hypoglycemia. Designed for those with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or no diabetes. For individuals two years and older with any type of diabetes including Type 1, Type 2, in pregnancy, or GDM 

    More Information

    Dexcom Stelo product page

    Stelo device training webinar

    Dexcom G7 product page

    Dexcom G7 device training webinar

     

     

     


       

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      This site and its services do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to your diabetes care and education specialist or health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, including your specific medical needs. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem or condition, please contact a qualified health care professional immediately. To find a diabetes care and education specialist near you, visit the ADCES finder tool.

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