Dexcom Stelo
The first over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor (CGM) available without a prescription. Tracks glucose every 5 minutes for up to 15 days per sensor, with smartphone integration for real-time insights.
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Our take
The Dexcom Stelo scores 76/100 and represents a genuinely new product category: over-the-counter continuous glucose monitoring for people who aren't diabetic but want to understand their metabolic health at a granular level.
No prescription needed โ that's the game-changer that separates it from every other CGM on the market. Slap a sensor on the back of your upper arm, get glucose readings every 5 minutes for 15 days straight, and actually see in real time how that pizza, morning run, or stressful meeting affects your blood sugar. Ease of use scores a stellar 90/100 because the setup and daily experience genuinely just works. HSA/FSA eligible, waterproof for swimming and showering, and integrates with Apple Health and Google Health Connect for data portability.
The catch is the ongoing cost model: roughly $89-99 per month for sensor replacements, continuing indefinitely with no one-time purchase option. This is health monitoring as a subscription service, and that recurring cost drags the value score down to 65/100. The adhesive can irritate sensitive skin during the 15-day wear period, and sensor placement is limited exclusively to your upper arm.
At $97.77 currently, with a lowest recorded price of $85, the "Good price" green label is accurate โ you're at a reasonable entry point. CVS, Walgreens, Amazon, and Oura's store all carry it at essentially the same competitive price.
Bottom line: Buy if you're serious about understanding your metabolic health โ the data is genuinely eye-opening and often life-changing. Skip if a ~$100/month ongoing commitment for sensor replacements doesn't fit your budget.
Pros & cons
What we like
- No prescription needed (first OTC CGM)
- 15-day sensor wear time
- Real-time glucose tracking with smartphone app
- HSA/FSA eligible
- Waterproof for swimming and showering
What could be better
- Ongoing cost (~$89-99/month)
- Not for insulin users (see Dexcom G7 instead)
- Requires smartphone for data viewing
- Adhesive can irritate sensitive skin
- Sensor placement limited to back of upper arm
Key features
Who is this for?
Best for
Health-conscious individuals who want to understand how food, exercise, and sleep affect their blood sugar without needing a doctor's prescription.
Not ideal for
People on insulin therapy (Dexcom G7 is more appropriate), or those unwilling to commit to ~$89/month ongoing sensor costs.
How it scores
Review scores
Total cost of ownership
| Device Price | $89.00 |
| Subscription (Required) | $89/mo |
| 1-Year Total Cost | $1157.00 |
| 2-Year Total Cost | $2225.00 |
Price history (estimated)
Specifications
| sensor_duration | 15 days per sensor |
|---|---|
| measurement | Every 5 minutes, synced every 15 minutes |
| water_resistance | 8 feet for 24 hours |
| connectivity | Bluetooth to smartphone |
| prescription | Not required (OTC) |
| price_model | $89-99 per 2-pack (30 days) |
Compatibility
Requires compatible smartphone. Works with Apple Health and Google Health Connect.