Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have made the lives of many with diabetes more manageable. While the standard method of checking blood sugar levels requires a fingerstick using a blood glucose meter (BGM), CGMs measure glucose continuously, collecting readings automatically every few minutes. We’ve previously written about the Senseonics Eversense Continuous Glucose Monitoring System, which uses an implanted sensor good for 90-day wear, a wireless transmitter, and a smartphone app to monitor blood sugar levels. The 90-day sensor improved upon on weekly sensor insertions required by other CGM systems.

In September 2017, Senseonics announced CE Mark Approval for its Eversense® XL CGM System, which includes an extended life implanted glucose sensor lasting up to 180 days. Senseonics says the system is “the world’s longest-lasting sensor.” The Eversense XL features a removable smart transmitter and a mobile app for display of real-time glucose readings. The small sensor is inserted completely under the skin and communicates with the smart transmitter, which is worn over the sensor. The glucose data is sent automatically every 5 minutes to a mobile app on the user’s smartphone. The system is meant to complement information gathered from a standard home blood glucose meter, not replace conventional blood glucose measurement. The company was expected to bring the product to market in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Continuous glucose monitoring can improve glycemic control, help alleviate low blood sugar levels, and increase quality of life for diabetics. Long-term glucose monitoring via a 180-day enabled sensor makes assessing blood sugar levels and adjusting behavior accordingly a lot more convenient. And if patients don’t have to change sensors as frequently, the hope is that they’ll use the extended CGM system long-term to improve their health.