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In a study of 9,258 adults with type 2 diabetes, frequent continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use was linked to significantly greater HbA1C reductions over 12 months compared with no CGM use, as published in JAMA Network Open. Patients using their CGM devices on 270 days per year or more achieved a mean HbA1C decrease of −1.52 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], −1.73 to −1.32 percentage points) vs −0.63 percentage points in nonusers (95% CI, −0.80 to −0.45 percentage points). The greatest improvement occurred within 3 months and was sustained through 1 year. Those with moderate use (between 90 days and 270 days) showed little additional benefit after 6 months. Among high-frequency users, adding a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist resulted in an additional −1.13 percentage point reduction (95% CI, −1.46 to −0.80 percentage points). The findings suggest continuous CGM use (>75% of days) substantially improves glycemic control and that the 6 month mark is a “critical time” to counsel patients on the benefits of adherence.
Make good use of your device: A separate commentary notes that the benefit of high CGM use was seen in both patients who use insulin and those who don’t. An initial conversation with patients new to the CGM device might include emphasizing consistent use for 6-12 months to realize its potential, the authors say.