Hands On Webinar | Over the Counter CGM Use in the Primary Care Setting | Recording-Over the Counter CGM Use in the Primary Care Setting

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The June 10th ADA webinar titled “Over-the-Counter CGM Use in Primary Care” featured experts Paige Johnson and Dr. Andrew Welsh discussing the expanding role of over-the-counter continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in diabetes care and wellness. Dr. Welsh provided an overview of CGM technology, differentiating FDA-approved CGMs, designed primarily for diabetes patients using insulin, from biosensors or over-the-counter CGMs like the Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo made for individuals without diabetes or those not using insulin. These devices vary in data frequency, alarm features, and clinical usability, with limitations such as no hypoglycemia alarms and incomplete data accuracy. Data from non-diabetic individuals show glucose spikes are common yet not fully predictive of disease progression, underscoring the need for further research on CGM use in prediabetes and wellness-focused care.<br /><br />Paige Johnson shared real-world clinical experiences where over-the-counter CGMs empowered patient self-management and improved provider-patient communication, especially for patients ineligible for prescription CGMs or managing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes without insulin. She highlighted motivational benefits, lifestyle adjustments, and monitoring medication effects, citing cases showing improved engagement and glycemic control. Challenges included potential confusion over data and limited provider time to interpret CGM readings. Both presenters recommended providers familiarize themselves with CGM basics, use educational app resources, and consider referrals to nutrition specialists to support patients using these devices.<br /><br />In Q&A, experts cautioned against over-reliance on estimated average glucose (EAG) from CGMs versus A1C testing, and advised measured interpretation of glucose spikes in healthy individuals. They emphasized patient education, pragmatic clinical approaches, and recognized the growing accessibility of CGMs as a promising tool to enhance personalized diabetes care and prevention efforts.

Keywords

Over-the-Counter CGM

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Diabetes Care

Prediabetes Monitoring

FDA-approved CGM

Dexcom Stelo

Abbott Lingo

Patient Self-Management

Glucose Spikes

Diabetes Prevention