“This may allow some patients to manage their disease more comfortably and may encourage them to have routine dialogue with their health care providers about the use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring in diabetes management,” Guiterrez said.
Using a small sensor wire, which is inserted just below the skin, glucose levels are measured throughout the day through fluid under the skin. Real-time results are sent wirelessly to an app on a mobile device – such as a smartphone or tablet.
Patients then have the option of setting custom alerts and alarms for times when glucose levels are low or high.
Before its decision to approve the monitoring system, the FDA analyzed two studies including 130 adults and children with diabetes. There were no adverse affects during the studies.
With more than 29 million people living with diabetes in the U.S., the new monitoring system is sure to bring more accuracy to insulin dosages and meal management through the day.