Using Your Dexcom CGM System
Sensor Adhesion Issues
How can I keep my Dexcom sensor adhered to my body?
Follow the insertion instructions carefully. Extra care may help you keep your sensor on for the entire sensor session.
How can I avoid irritated or sensitive skin caused by the sensor adhesive?
Please find the answer in our sensor adhesion tips.
Updating Your Device Software
Why am I being asked to update my phone's operating system (OS) to continue getting Dexcom app updates?
Each year we assess whether to keep supporting older Operating Systems (OS) for Dexcom apps. When an OS you're using is no longer supported for your Dexcom app, we will ask you to update your OS to continue getting app updates.
How soon will Dexcom support new operating system (OS) versions after they are released?
Dexcom tests all apps on new OS versions, including public betas, after the OS is released. It may take several days or more to complete testing and update the app to be fully compatible with a new OS version. Dexcom recommends checking the compatibility before installing a new OS version on your smart device, and not installing the new version until we approve it.
Device Upgrades
If I am replacing my smart device, what will I need to do?
To use your Dexcom system with a new smart device, you first need to stop your sensor session on your current device. Next, install the Dexcom CGM app on your new smart device.
Will updating my smart device affect how I can use my G6?
Before upgrading your smart device or its operating system, check dexcom.com/compatibility. Automatic updates of the app or your device operating system can change settings or shut down the app. Always update your smart device manually and verify correct device settings afterward.
Setting Up Sharing and Dexcom Clarity
Can I use both a receiver and smart device with Dexcom Clarity?
It is possible to use both a smart device and a receiver to provide CGM data. The smart device system streams data to the Clarity server, where that data is made available for reports after three hours.
How does Dexcom Clarity get my data?
If you use a receiver, you log in to Clarity from a computer, connect your receiver, then follow the Clarity Upload Instructions. The data stored on your receiver will appear instantly.
How do I know when Dexcom Clarity has been updated?
For every release, a notification banner is posted at the top of the Dexcom Clarity on the day of the release. Follow the banner's link to read the release notes. If the Uploader software is updated, the notification banner posts 2 weeks before the release.
How can I customise Dexcom Clarity?
In Dexcom CLARITY, use the Settings page to customise data display and sharing. Changes only apply to Dexcom CLARITY and do not change any settings on your Dexcom CGM system.
Setting Up Your Smartphone or Receiver
What are the recommended G6 Android phone settings?
Your phone settings can prevent the Dexcom G6 app from working. Learn more about the settings that will allow your app to work as expected.
Do I need to use my receiver?
You have the option to use only the app, only the receiver, or both at the same time.
Why does the G6 Android app ask for Location Permission?
We understand you may be concerned about granting this permission, but Dexcom does not use this permission to track your location.
How do I set up the Dexcom G6 with my phone?
The Dexcom G6 app has to be downloaded and is different from the Dexcom G5 Mobile app. It is available for free from the Apple App or Google Play stores.
Calibration and Accuracy Issues
Does the G6 accept calibrations?
The option to enter calibrations was included to allow a user to manually calibrate the system in case the start-up calibration code is lost.
Using Your Sensor and Transmitter
I lost my sensor code. What do I do?
Without your sensor code, you will need to calibrate twice after your 2-hour sensor warmup is complete, a third time 12 hours later, a fourth time 12 hours after that, and then once every 24 hours.
Where can I insert my G6 sensor?
Dexcom G6 sensors may be inserted on the abdomen, the back of the upper arm (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years). Sensor placement is important and you will want to change your insertion site with each sensor. Using the same site too often might not allow the skin to heal, causing scarring or skin irritation.
Can the sensor be restarted after 10 days?
No. The Dexcom G6 CGM system is designed to eliminate the need for fingerstick calibrations* and can be used for 10 days without restart.
What is a sensor code and why do I need one?
When you start a new sensor, you must enter a code into your display device to use the G6 without fingerstick calibrations.
Using the Dexcom CGM App
Is there a Dexcom CGM Widget in the Apple Today View?
Your Dexcom CGM App supports a useful feature called a Today view that is accessed by swiping from the top or left edge of the screen. You can check your CGM information on your smart device without needing to open the app, even when the device is locked.
What are the recommended iPhone settings?
Your phone settings can prevent the Dexcom Follow app from working. Learn more about the settings that will allow your app to work as expected.
How do I share my glucose data with the Apple Health app?
Apple Health is a health and fitness tracking app included on Apple devices (iOS 8+). You can share your glucose data with Apple Health. Health gets the information after a three-hour delay, not in real time.
Will my Dexcom CGM app work if the app is closed?
You should never close or quit the app. To get your glucose readings, alarm, and alerts or to share with your Followers the app must run in the background.
Changing Your Sensor and Transmitter
What is the Dexcom G6 transmitter warranty?
Your Dexcom G6 Mobile transmitter is covered under a limited warranty for three months, starting from the shipment date.
How long does the Dexcom G6 transmitter last?
A G6 transmitter lasts for three months (same as G5 Mobile).
Using the Follow App
Will I receive notifications if the Follow app is closed?
Yes, you get Follow notifications when the app is closed.
What is Dexcom Follow?
Remotely monitor a Dexcom CGM user's glucose with the Dexcom Follow app.
What are the recommended G6 Android phone settings?
Your phone settings can prevent the Dexcom G6 app from working. Learn more about the settings that will allow your app to work as expected.
Does the Follow App work with G6?
Yes, the Follow App works the same way as it did with the Dexcom G5 Mobile.
Software Updates
How soon will Dexcom support new operating system (OS) versions after they are released?
Dexcom tests all apps on new OS versions, including public betas, after the OS is released. It may take several days or more to complete testing and update the app to be fully compatible with a new OS version. Dexcom recommends checking the compatibility before installing a new OS version on your smart device, and not installing the new version until we approve it.