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Health Tech
Dexcom Stelo
The bottom line: Prices are stable. Factor in the $89/mo subscription — that's $1166 in your first year.
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.
$97.77 -1% vs last week
All-time low: $85.00 at Stelo by Dexcom · Verify price at store Where to buy
Best Price
$97.77 Check Price at
CVS
$97.77 Check Price at CVS
Walgreens
$97.77 Check Price at Walgreens
Stelo by Dexcom
Oura Store
$99.00 Check Price at Oura Store
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Released: August 2024 Subscription Required: $89/mo iOS 16.0+ Android +
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
Over-the-counter (no prescription required)
Continuous glucose monitoring every 5 minutes
15-day sensor wear time
Smartphone app with glucose trend insights
Meal and activity logging
Time-in-range goals and spike alerts
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
Tom's Guide 4/5
Optimize Biomarkers 4.2/5
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
iOS Supported (16.0+)
Android Supported (undefined+)
Companion App Stelo by Dexcom
Requires compatible smartphone. Works with Apple Health and Google Health Connect.
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