OTC [over-the-counter] CGMs [continuous glucose monitors] are particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes who are managing their condition with lifestyle changes or oral medications.
OTC CGMs are transformative not only for individuals with diabetes but also for those seeking to monitor their glucose levels for overall health and wellness. By providing an accessible and user-friendly solution, these devices empower more people to manage their health proactively, leading to improved health outcomes and a reduction in diabetes-related complications on a global scale.
Continuous glucose monitoring can raise overall awareness of factors that affect glucose levels and is associated with a reduced long-term risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's and certain cancers. Many clinical trials focus on glucose monitoring and according to the GlobalData clinical trial database, the number of clinical trials for glucose monitoring devices has shown a consistent upward trend from 2019 to 2023.
Academic institutions are key trial sponsors, highlighting the devices' importance
DexCom sponsored the highest number of clinical trials for glucose monitoring, indicating their strong presence and investment in this area. Multiple academic institutions, such as Ohio State University and Imperial College London, are key sponsors, highlighting the importance of research and development in the field. Healthcare organisations such as Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and the Mayo Clinic, are involved in sponsoring clinical trials, indicating practical applications of the novel glucose monitoring technologies.
OTC CGMs provide a holistic wellness solution and can be a valuable tool for managing glucose levels and improving overall health outcomes. With the US Food and Drug Administration approvals and more clinical research outcomes, the market for OTC CGMs is expected to grow significantly.