Press release - 18 July 2021 06:45

Latest Study: Choosing a blood sugar monitor without finger pricks

There are various blood sugar monitors for people with diabetes. Some devices may require individuals to regularly prick their fingers, while others only require finger pricking for calibration purposes. They measure a person’s blood sugar levels and help doctors determine whether they need further treatment.

black and white photo of woman holding blue blood sugar monitor without finger pricks while drinking a coffee, isolated over pale green background

This article explores the different types of blood sugar monitors that do not require finger pricking and some products available for purchase. It also describes some factors that may help people choose the right device.

Types of blood sugar monitors without finger pricks

Some types of blood sugar monitors that do not involve finger prick collection for people with diabetes include the below.

Continuous glucose monitors

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) check blood sugar levels automatically at timed intervals. People do not need to prick a finger to test their blood sugar levels, but finger pricks may be useful to calibrate the device.

According to an older studyTrusted Source, a person has to put the CGM sensor under the skin of the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, or upper arm to test for glucose in interstitial fluid and other tissue. This fluid transports oxygen and nutrients to cells and helps them remove waste materials.

CGM devices can test glucose levels every 5 minutes. They come with a sensor, transmitters, and receivers or display units that provide regular reports, real-time data to an app or connected device, or a combination of both. Additionally, each separate part has its own price, and a person may need to replace sensors and transmitters regularly.

Some CGMs also require regular calibration using blood glucose meter (BGMs) readings, while others do not need frequent calibration. Individuals should follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek help from a medical professional who can advise on using the device.

Advantages and disadvantages

CGMs offer various advantages and disadvantages.

Some advantages of these devices include the following:

They can detect extreme fluctuations in blood sugar levels, according to a 2017 studyTrusted Source.
They can help people with type 1 or 2 diabetes improve their blood sugar levels, according to 2020 research.
They reduce the need for finger pricks.
They reduce the occurrence of experiencing low blood sugar levels.

However, some disadvantages include the below:

Doctors may be unable to suggest a treatment plan using CGM data alone.
A person may need a finger prick to calibrate the device.
Several factors, such as user error, can reduce the effectiveness of the device, according to one studyTrusted Source.
They typically cost more than BGMs.

Earlobe tests

Some monitors can check blood glucose levels through the ear lobes. However, according to 2019 research, earlobe scanning is not as effective for people with type 1 diabetes, especially during periods of exercise or very low blood sugar.

Integrity Applications, a company that focuses on needle-free blood glucose monitoring, manufactures GlucoTrack. This is a battery-operated noninvasive device that helps people with type 2 diabetes monitor their blood glucose levels through their ear lobes.

At the time of publication, these tests do not have approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, Integrity Applications is planning to submit the device for trials to gain approved status.

However, individuals who have type 2 diabetes should speak with their doctor before using a blood sugar monitor, as they can determine whether they are safe and suitable for their condition.

Breath tests

Glucose breath tests may one day benefit people who have diabetes, and they are also available for purchase.

These devices do not directly measure blood glucose levels — they use glucose in a person’s exhaled breath to measure total blood glucose levels.

However, manufacturers often market breath monitors for people interested in keto diets and wishing to monitor their blood sugar levels.

A person should be cautious when shopping for a blood glucose monitor. A 2012 studyTrusted Source notes that breath monitors may claim that they are able to manage diabetes. They also affirm that if these devices undergo further development, they may be beneficial for individuals, especially children with diabetes and cystic fibrosis, as they are easy and safe to use.

A 2020 studyTrusted Source also notes that breath devices need to undergo additional, large-scale studies to determine how biological factors may affect the lag time and the reported levels of glucose.

Breath tests currently do not have approval for managing blood sugar levels. A person should speak with their doctor before purchasing a breath test, particularly if they are looking to monitor their levels closely.

Who are they useful for?

CGMs can help people with diabetes monitor and maintain their blood glucose levels. While they do not involve finger pricking, they may be useful to calibrate the device.

Earlobe, breath, and other noninvasive devices may be beneficial for monitoring blood glucose levels, especially in children with the same condition and those who have cystic fibrosis. However, they are not FDA-approved, while some may need to undergo further testing to determine their safety and accuracy.

Products

The below information reviews some CGMs that are available for purchase.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.

Dexcom G6 CGM System

The Dexcom G6 CGM System provides automatic updates to a connected smart device or app. People with Medicare may need to purchase the connected device monitor, but they can also use their phone or tablet. The app notifies the user if their glucose levels are low or high.

The device comes with transmitters and sensors that last for 90 days and 10 days, respectively, so people need to purchase new components regularly.

The Dexcom G6 CGM System is available at various pharmacies across the United States and online stores, such as Diabetic Warehouse.

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The Guardian Connect System

The Guardian Connect System is a CGM device that can send early warnings of potential high glucose levels to a person before they occur. The company reportedly works with over 600 insurance companies to help people get the system at a lower price.

The Guardian Connect System features: