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.
Where to buy
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Our take
The Dexcom Stelo scores 76/100 and represents a genuinely new category: over-the-counter continuous glucose monitoring for people who aren't diabetic.
No prescription needed — that's the game-changer. Slap a sensor on the back of your arm, get glucose readings every 5 minutes for 15 days, and actually see how that pizza or morning run affects your blood sugar. Ease of use scores 90/100 because it just works. HSA/FSA eligible, waterproof, integrates with Apple Health and Google Health Connect.
The catch is the ongoing cost: roughly $89-99 per month for sensor replacements, forever. There's no one-time purchase option. This is health-as-a-service, and that subscription model drags the value score down to 65/100. Adhesive can irritate skin, and placement is limited to your upper arm.
At $97.77 currently, with a lowest of $85, the "Good price" green label is accurate — you're at a reasonable point. CVS, Walgreens, and Amazon all carry it at essentially the same price.
Bottom line: Buy if you're serious about understanding your metabolic health — the data is genuinely eye-opening. Skip if a ~$100/month 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 | $97.77 |
| Subscription (Required) | $89/mo |
| 1-Year Total Cost | $1165.77 |
| 2-Year Total Cost | $2233.77 |
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.
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