(Glasgow, KY) The FDA announced yesterday that for the first time ever, a continuous glucose monitor will be available for over-the-counter purchase, without needing a doctor referral. According to a press release from the administration, “The Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System is an integrated Continuous Glucose Monitor intended for anyone 18 years and older who does not use insulin, such as individuals with diabetes treating their condition with oral medications, or those without diabetes who want to better understand how diet and exercise may impact blood sugar levels.”
WCLU News spoke with local pharmacist, Phillip Roper, whose Town and Country Pharmacy in Glasgow already sells the Dexcom brand of CGM as well as other products like the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2. Roper explained how medical supplies for diabetics are becoming more accessible.
The product should be on shelves beginning this summer. Roper says, without knowing much about the new over-the-counter CGMs, they must be much more affordable.
Again, the new over-the-counter versions are not for diabetics with “low blood sugar”.
Roper added that the FDA has recently made other areas of health products more accessible, as well.
The FDA also stated in it’s notice that “Data from a clinical study provided to the FDA showed that the device performed similarly to other iCGMs. Adverse events reported in the study included local infection, skin irritation and pain or discomfort.”