How Long Does a CGM Last? Device Lifespan

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) changed how people with diabetes and health-focused individuals track their blood sugar. The technology keeps getting more popular. 

One question often arises: “How long does a CGM last?” There is no straightforward solution. The brand, the type of sensor used, your wearing style and maintenance play a role here. If someone inquires about the lifespan, they may talk about the sensor, the transmitter or the app. All pieces have their time frames.

This guide explains how long sensors last, how brands differ and what can impact their lifespan. It also discusses ways to make them last longer and how insurance or your budget might play a role. After reading this, you will understand how long CGMs can be used and feel confident handling your investment.

CGM Components and Their Lifespan

We need to explain which part of the device we mean before talking about how long a CGM “lasts.” A CGM system has several parts, each with a different life cycle.

Sensor Lifespan

The sensor is the thin wire that goes under your skin to read glucose levels. You replace this part most often.

Typical Lifespan: Sensors work for 7 to 14 days based on the brand.

Examples:

• Dexcom G6 Sensor: works for 10 days
• Freestyle Libre 2 Sensor: works for 14 days
• Medtronic Guardian Sensor: works for about 7 days

You should remove and replace sensors when instructed. Excessive use can cause your devices to give incorrect results and lead to skin troubles.

Transmitter Lifespan

The transmitter takes the readings of the sensor and delivers them to either your phone or reader device.

Typical Lifespan: Transmitters will operate for 3 to 12 months, depending on how much you use them and their brand.

Examples:

• Dexcom G6 Transmitter: works for about 3 months
• Medtronic Guardian Transmitter: works for 12 months if you charge it right

Transmitters cost more and last longer, so companies usually make them rechargeable and reusable.

Receiver or App Lifespan

Some CGM systems need a separate reader device. Others work with smartphones through apps.

Typical Lifespan:

• Hardware Receivers: Like many small electronics, hardware receivers have a long working life of up to 5 years.
• Apps: Apps operate indefinitely as long as the app receives updates and is compatible with your phone.

The work of a receiver does not stop, but they could require software updates or just become older with the years.

Lifespan by Popular CGM Brands

Here is a breakdown of how long top CGM brands and their parts last.

 

Brand	Sensor Lifespan	Transmitter Lifespan	Receiver/App
Dexcom G6	10 days	3 months	Mobile app or receiver (2–5 yrs)
Freestyle Libre 2	14 days	Integrated (no transmitter)	App/Reader (3+ years)
Medtronic Guardian	7 days	1 year (Guardian Link)	Pump/Reader (2–4 years)
Eversense E3	180 days (implantable)	Rechargeable (used daily)	App or compatible reader

Each system might have extra parts like sticky patches or batteries that also affect how well they work over time.

Factors That Influence CGM Lifespan

Even if a CGM part should last a certain number of days or months, outside and inside factors can make it work for less or more time.

Skin Condition and Hygiene

Skin irritation, too much sweating, or wrong insertion can make sensors stick less and hurt how long they last. Cleaning your skin right and using barrier sprays can help sensors stay on longer.

Activity Levels

Very active users, especially athletes, might see sensors come off or lose stickiness sooner than expected. Using extra sticky patches might help.

Environmental Conditions

Water, too much heat, or humidity might hurt the electronics. Most CGMs resist water somewhat, but heavy sweating or swimming more than recommended can hurt how they work.

Body Location

Where you put the sensor can change how accurate it is and how long it lasts. Places with more movement or rubbing tend to make wear time shorter.

Device Handling and Reuse

Some users try to use sensors longer than recommended using other apps or tricks. This might work for a short time, but it can make them less accurate and cancel warranties.

How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your CGM System

You can take real steps to make sure every part of your CGM system lasts as long as it should.

Use Skin Prep Techniques

• Clean skin completely
• Use barrier wipes or sprays
• Put on sticky patches for extra grip

Protect the Sensor

• Stay away from tight clothes or belts that might knock off the sensor
• Use sensor guards or tapes during busy days

Monitor Battery Levels

For rechargeable transmitters, always charge them fully and keep moisture away from the charging port.

Keep Devices Updated

If you use an app, make sure it stays updated to avoid bugs or syncing problems that could make receiver function shorter.

How Insurance and Cost May Impact Replacement Schedule?

CGMs have set lifespans, but your ability to replace them on time can depend on insurance coverage or money you pay yourself.

Insurance Limitations

Most insurance plans (private, Medicare, Medicaid) let you replace only after the full wear time is done.

• Early replacements usually are not covered
• Wrong use or loss might not get paid back

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

If you pay yourself, you might want to use a sensor longer than its lifespan to save money. This could hurt health results and doctors do not recommend it.

How To Know When to Replace Your CGM?

You must know when your CGM needs replacement, even if you are not sure about its lifespan.

Accuracy Drops

If readings become strange, need frequent corrections, or do not match fingerstick levels, you should replace the sensor.

Physical Damage or Discomfort

Peeling sticky parts, bleeding, pain, or discomfort around where it goes in are all signs the sensor should come out.

End-of-Life Alerts

Many devices will tell you when the sensor or transmitter has expired. Do not ignore these warnings.

What Happens If You Use a CGM Past Its Expiry

Some users keep using expired sensors or transmitters, especially with other apps or hacks. Here are the dangers:

• Inaccuracy: Glucose information might be dangerously wrong.
• Skin Issues: Infection, irritation, or allergic reactions might happen.
• Warranty Void: Companies might not cover bad results or devices used past expiration.

Comparing CGM Lifespan with Traditional Glucose Meters

CGMs have ongoing costs and limited lifespans, but they offer several benefits over traditional glucose meters.

Feature	CGMs	Fingerstick Meters
Lifespan	Days to months (rotating parts)	Meter: years; strips: single use
Replacement Frequency	High (esp. sensors)	Low (device), high (strips)
Data Insights	Real-time, 24/7 trends	Single-point readings only
Cost	Higher upfront and maintenance	Lower per device, high on strips

Conclusion

Understanding how long your CGM lasts is not just about reading information sheets. It is about managing technology in your daily life. You can extend the lifespan of your device without harming health or safety by replacing sensors on time, taking care of your transmitter, and using proper cleaning practices. Always talk to your care provider for personal guidance.

Healify Now works to help individuals with trusted CGM support. If you want to know about CGM technology or are not sure how to make the most of it, we are here to help.

Want to learn if CGM is right for you or how to use it well? Our expert care team at Healify Now can answer all your questions. Schedule your free consultation today and take control of your glucose health with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Extend My CGM Sensor Beyond Its Recommended Wear Period?

Technically, it might still work, but doing this can lead to wrong readings and skin problems. It might also cancel your warranty or insurance coverage.

2. Why Do Different Brands Have Different Sensor Lifespans?

Lifespans are different based on sensor design, accuracy technology, materials used, and FDA approval limits. Each brand tests for safety and performance before setting a replacement schedule.

3.What Happens If I Accidentally Remove My CGM Early?

You might need to replace it and possibly pay the cost if insurance does not cover early removal. Some systems let you put it back on, but it is not always reliable.

4. How Do I Know If My Transmitter Is Still Working?

Most CGMs will show battery or pairing problems on the app or receiver if the transmitter starts to fail. Some even send early warnings before shutdown.

5. Can I Switch From One CGM Brand To Another Easily?

Yes, but switching might need a new prescription and understanding new insertion methods or apps. Talk to your provider or reach out to Healify Now for guidance.

Evelyn Brown