A recent umbrella review evaluated the effectiveness of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to self-monitoring blood glucose or usual care. The review found moderate evidence supporting CGM’s ability to significantly reduce hemoglobin A1c levels, with effect sizes ranging from −0.74% to −0.20%. Additionally, CGM use resulted in improved glycemic variability, including increased time in range and decreased time above range, though no significant changes were observed in time below range. The study concluded that CGM offers better clinical outcomes in terms of glycemic control, but the impact on patient-reported outcomes was inconclusive.

The review analyzed 31 studies involving 11,494 patients, with 15 of these showing significant improvements in blood glucose levels due to CGM use. While the results were generally positive regarding A1c and glycemic variability, the patient-reported outcomes did not show clear benefits. The review highlighted the need for further research to explore CGM’s effects on patient outcomes and its acceptability. Despite the promising clinical benefits, issues like cost and access to CGM devices, although improving, remain challenges for widespread use.

Reference: Gallagher A. Continuous Glucose Monitoring Shows Potential to Improving Clinical Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes. Pharmacy Times. Published January 3, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/continuous-glucose-monitoring-shows-potential-to-improving-clinical-outcomes-in-type-2-diabetes