FDA Clears First Over-the-Counter Continuous Glucose Monitors in 2024, Expanding Access for Non-Diabetic Adults
Since 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the first over-the-counter (OTC) continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), making them available without a prescription. This development significantly broadens access to glucose monitoring technology beyond individuals with diagnosed diabetes. Previously, CGMs were primarily used by people with diabetes, often requiring a prescription. Now, devices like Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo are available for purchase by adults aged 18 and over, including those with type 2 diabetes not on insulin and adults without diabetes seeking general health insights. These wearable sensors, typically placed on the upper arm or abdomen, measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid and transmit real-time data to a paired app. While there is a 10-15 minute lag compared to fingerstick tests, CGMs provide continuous readings every 1-15 minutes, offering insights into how diet, exercise, and other factors affect glucose levels. This shift allows for greater personal hea...
