Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM Systems)

Dexcom is a medical technology company that makes continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems for people with diabetes. CGMs are implantable devices that estimate your blood glucose levels every few minutes.

Dexcom has developed glucose-tracking technology for over 25 years. The company’s first CGM system reached the U.S. market in 2006.

In 2024, the FDA cleared the Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System, the first over-the-counter CGM.

Who Uses Dexcom

Dexcom CGMs, such as the G6 and G7, are indicated for people ages two and older. Pregnant patients can use the G7.

The devices work if you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. If you have Type 1 diabetes, you can use insulin delivery systems or pumps with Dexcom CGMs. Dexcom recommends Dexcom ONE or ONE+ if you have Type 2 diabetes.

Dexcom continuous glucose monitors work by placing a slim sensor wire under your skin with an applicator. A small adhesive patch holds the sensor wire in place.

The Dexcom CGM reads glucose levels in interstitial fluid, which is the fluid in between cells. It does this 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Integrating Dexcom With Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Apps

Dexcom G6 and G7 integrate with compatible insulin pumps and automated insulin delivery systems. These include the Tandem t:slim X2 pump with Control‑IQ technology and other partner devices listed by Dexcom.

In these systems, the pump receives CGM data and can automatically adjust basal insulin and, in some cases, deliver correction boluses based on Dexcom readings. Data can also sync with diabetes apps and cloud platforms for remote review.

One benefit of Dexcom CGM is improved glycemic control and patient‑reported outcomes. However, results vary by individual, adherence and clinical support.

A limitation of CGM is that it’s not intended to replace comprehensive diabetes care and education. Additionally, some people may still need fingersticks to check their blood glucose if their symptoms don’t match their CGM readings.

How Dexcom Can Help Improve A1C and Time in Range

Randomized and observational studies show that Dexcom CGM use can reduce A1C. It can also increase time spent in the targeted glucose range (typically 70–180 mg/dL) in adults with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, particularly when used consistently.

Real-Time Alerts for Highs and Lows

Real‑time alerts for current and predicted blood glucose levels allow you to respond before you develop severe low or high blood sugar. You can customize your alerts in the Dexcom app with sounds and settings.

Dexcom devices can also share glucose data and alerts with designated followers via connected apps, which can be critical for children, older adults and those at high risk for unrecognized hypoglycemia.

However, because CGMs measure interstitial fluid instead of blood glucose, they provide results that lag behind those of blood glucose by around five to 10 minutes.

Quality-of-Life Benefits and Remote Monitoring for Caregivers

Studies and patient‑reported outcomes suggest that using Dexcom CGMs with automated insulin delivery can reduce diabetes‑related distress and hypoglycemia. CGMs can also improve sleep by providing stable glucose readings overnight.

Remote monitoring features allow caregivers and clinicians to review data and intervene when patterns of concern appear, which can be especially valuable for monitoring children’s blood sugar.

Dexcom risks and side effects include the sensor breaking off in your skin, inaccurate readings and skin reactions.

When To Call Your Doctor About Dexcom Problems

Make sure to contact your health care provider if your Dexcom sensor wire breaks under your skin and you can’t see it. If you have signs of infection, such as redness, swelling or pain, call your health care provider immediately.

Dexcom CGMs shouldn’t be used if you are taking hydroxyurea. Additionally, taking higher than the maximum dose of acetaminophen may make your readings look higher than they are.

In July 2025, the FDA announced that Dexcom issued a recall for several of its CGM receivers because the speakers may malfunction, causing missed alerts for dangerous blood sugar levels.

This is a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall reserved for products that could result in severe injury or death.

Dexcom ONE and Dexcom ONE+ receivers are also included in the recall, but these CGMs are only sold outside the U.S.

While this recall didn’t include any complaints of death, there have been reports of serious injury or death linked to the Dexcom G6. One FDA MAUDE report from 2019 blames a woman’s death on “minimal training, false readings and numerous alarms.”

Recent Warning Letters and Manufacturing Concerns

Dexcom sent an urgent medical device correction update letter in June 2025, reporting 112 global complaints about speaker malfunctions.

Of those reports, 56 were serious, including loss of consciousness, seizure, vomiting and unspecified hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic symptoms. Dexcom said all of these people recovered.

How To Check Whether Your Dexcom Device Is Affected

You can check the serial numbers for G6, G7 and ONE devices posted on the FDA’s recall alert.

Alternatively, you can look up your device on Dexcom’s U.S. site by entering the serial number on your receiver.

Drugwatch’s legal partners are investigating Dexcom lawsuits on behalf of people who used a Dexcom CGM and suffered severe injuries.

You can seek legal help if you were injured, and you can sign up for a free case review to see if you qualify to file a lawsuit for potential compensation.

When a Dexcom Problem Might Lead to a Legal Claim

A Dexcom problem might become a legal claim if you were hospitalized or required emergency treatment because of inaccurate readings or malfunctions from a Dexcom CGM.

Some injuries include skin reactions, infections and hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.

How Drugwatch Connects You With Lawyers for Dexcom Device Cases

Drugwatch connects you with experienced medical device lawyers for Dexcom cases by partnering with some of the top mass torts firms in the country.

You can sign up for a free case review, and we’ll match you with a firm that can help you with your potential case. After you sign up, one of our partners will contact you to ask questions and determine whether you qualify.

There’s no obligation to file a lawsuit, and there’s never a charge to receive a case review from our partners.