DexCom Inc.’s DXCM Stelo Glucose Biosensor System has become the first over-the-counter (OTC) continuous glucose monitor (CGM) available to the public. Approved by the FDA in March, Stelo is now available for purchase without a prescription at Stelo.com.
This integrated CGM (iCGM) is specifically designed for individuals aged 18 and older who do not use insulin to manage their Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. The small biosensor, worn on the back of the upper arm, provides users with personalized insights into their glucose levels directly on their smartphones. This allows them to see how food, exercise, and sleep affect their glucose levels, all without the need for painful finger pricks.
Stelo is a significant development for the estimated 125 million Americans living with Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin and those with prediabetes. It empowers individuals to take control of their health by providing them with valuable information about their glucose levels and how to manage them effectively.
Users can purchase a one-month supply of Stelo online for $99, which includes two sensors with a total wear time of up to 30 days. Alternatively, they can sign up for an ongoing subscription at $89 per month.
Dexcom is also working with Amazon to facilitate Stelo deliveries, and patients can utilize their flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) to cover the cost of the device.
Stelo is a small, gray device, about the size of a quarter and half an inch thick, that lasts for 15 days before needing replacement. It wirelessly transmits data to a smartphone app, where users specify their health condition, whether they have Type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or neither. This information then sets a “Target Range” within the app to help users maintain optimal glucose levels.
Dexcom’s stock price (DXCM) has seen a slight increase, up 0.48% to $74.43 at the time of this writing. The availability of Stelo represents a significant advancement in diabetes management, offering a convenient and accessible way for individuals to monitor their glucose levels and make informed decisions about their health.
