Stelo by Dexcom

Millions with Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes are excluded from CGM technology due to insurance requirements and prescription barriers. Instead, they rely on painful fingersticks that provide only momentary glucose readings. These methods hinder proactive health management and often lead to confusion, frustration, and poor outcomes. The challenge was to make continuous glucose tracking accessible, understandable, and non-intimidating—especially for individuals unfamiliar with diabetes technology. The goal was to empower users through clear insights, simple onboarding, and a device that fits naturally into daily life, enabling better metabolic awareness and self-care without needing to engage the medical system.

Stelo eliminates the prescription barrier by offering the first over-the-counter CGM in the U.S. The discreet, lightweight wearable adheres comfortably to the upper arm and streams glucose data to a companion mobile app. Designed with first-time users in mind, the device features a simplified application process, while the app presents glucose trends with intuitive visuals and educational guidance. By focusing on form, comfort, and clarity, Stelo transforms complex glucose data into digestible insights. The system’s approachable aesthetics and easy purchase process make it a welcoming, consumer-first product that redefines CGM use for the broader population.

Stelo opens the CGM market to millions who were previously excluded, expanding Dexcom’s reach while promoting health equity. For users, it eliminates painful fingersticks and makes daily glucose management effortless. Commercially, it unlocks a new consumer base in the wellness-tech space. Socially, it reduces systemic barriers to care by enabling self-management without prescriptions or insurance. Culturally, it reframes glucose monitoring as a lifestyle enhancer, not a medical burden. Environmentally, the product uses optimized packaging and efficient materials. Overall, Stelo improves health literacy, access, and outcomes through thoughtful, human-centered design.

• First OTC CGM in the U.S.: No prescription required—available directly online or in-store. • Discreet, comfortable wearable: Designed to blend with the skin and be worn for 15 days. • User-friendly app: Tracks glucose trends in real time and provides educational content. • Empowering insights: Helps users understand the impact of food, exercise, and sleep on their glucose levels. • Painless self-application: Designed for first-time users unfamiliar with traditional CGMs. • Consumer-first aesthetics: Neutral tones, soft forms, and non-clinical appearance reduce stigma. • Subscription and one-time purchase options: Affordable pricing model with wide accessibility. • Backed by Dexcom accuracy: Built on Dexcom’s trusted sensor technology, tailored for a new audience. • Packaging efficiency: Designed to minimize waste and streamline distribution. • Bridges health and wellness: Positions CGM not just for disease management but as a proactive wellness tool for a broader market.