Watch next: 8 Tips and hacks for Dexcom G6 th-cam.com/video/EcICABygTt8/w-d-xo.html 7 Tips to make your Dexcom G6 stick th-cam.com/video/ST8VLEowziU/w-d-xo.html
My first six years with IDDM Type I (diagnosed 1981) I had no insurance coverage for it- all supplies needles and insulin were cash. We didn't get a decent glucometer until about 1992- and they were pretty expensive as well. This is some very good advice for those who have the similar problems I had years ago. I hope your son stays well!!
Hey I don't think it's good advice to use the same code over and over. My understanding of G6 is that the code is not so much a serial number as it is a code to identify how the sensor is calibrated. If you use any random code it could most likely lead to inaccurate reading which you could fix with regular calibrations but still I think it would be better to use no code and calibrate once a day or at normal finger stick times (what's the point of the CGM then? To have CONTINUOUS monitoring of course :) )
Thank you so much for this information, my 12 year old has type 1 and it’s like pulling teeth trying to get her supplies. My opinion diabetic patients should get all their supplies for free because they need it to LIVE!
Yes, exactly my opinion. Here in Germany, the health insurance pays for my test strips or CGM in full. You automatically have health insurance here, it's mandatory, not an option. So I don't need to use this hack. I only have to make a small additional payment of 10 € (current rate 11 $) for my insulin itself. That's enough for 2-3 months.
In Australia you get paid $140 fortnightly disability: you get dexcom or any CGM device and transmitters for free every time you order it in. and we get a healthcare card and, We use the disability money to pay for items that have keystone strips pay full price use disability money and the normal BGL strips no cost at the pharmacy. Insulin pay nothing for. Everything in Australia paid for. I couldn’t imagine having to pay for this I would be broke. Dr They had just changed the long acting insulin to different type and I have so many of the old medication they just said throw it all out: i can’t even donate it. I still haven’t. Yes this should be available for all type 1s for free for all around the world it should be like this at all…
I enlisted my husband to help me with the removal and restart. I needed 2 more days because I was having an MRI and did not want to waste a sensor. It worked perfectly. Thank you.
In my experience, Dexcom replaces my sensor if I have to remove it for an MRI. That's happened at least 5 times in the past 4 years, and they've replaced it each time with no problem.
You don't need to keep the sensor code if your using the g6 with your tslim x2 pump. Can find the last sensor code in your pump. Options > History > CGM History > Sessions and calibrations > Pick day you inserted sensor and it will have the sensor code next to 'sensor code entered'. You're welcome!
Dude this just saved me, my insurance went all haywire starting the new year, from the bottom of my heart man thank you, I’ll be able to go through another day of work without pricking my finger 6 times
Call you insurance company asost these days have this issue but almost all Iinsurances have to cover diabetes equipment, infact it's one of the most commonly covered diseases but yes the new year tends to mess up insurance because they code everything different and change stuff to send.people into a panic. Hope you're doing well!
Thanks so much for the video. I actually heard about this from my Dr who is a type 1 diabetic and wears a Dexcom. She asked me if I’d learned how to hack the sensor yet!? After reminding me that it was not medical advice…she told me what to do and said TH-cam had lots of videos…. so I found you. My “new” sensor is started up and ready for round two!! I don’t even pay for the sensors (they’re provided by my insurance company) but it’s still nice not to have to change them out all the time, especially when they’re already in a great place.
@@evecarter617 I just finally got on the assistance program that gives me 6 months for 90 bucks basically. they break it into two 3 month payments. but they only said they give half a year at that special setup so ur back to finger sticks the rest of the year.
I cannot thank you enough for this information. My 7 yr old is T1D and her sensor expired last night. I cant get anymore until tuesday. Her bs is not regulated due to her being recently diagnosed and constantly drops severely low. I was so nervous for her to be at school and especially riding the bus without it and her bs drop and she not know until it was too late. I used the test strip to do this method and it worked! I am ever so thankful!
A great thanks from Melbourne. I just took off the sensor with the 1st method and it's not difficult at all. Now I'm waiting to reinsert the transmitter. I really would like to buy you a drink for appreciation if it's possible! You are God send! God bless you Bro.
After trying every method for popping out transmitter I found that inserting 2 thin guitar picks one each side pops the transmitter out EVERY single time. No working your way around with card or test strip, just pop one pick in on one side ( upper mid side of transmitter) leave in place then slide other pick on opposite side same location the transmitter literally jumps out every time upon insertion of second pick Hasn't failed me even 1 time! ❤
I use a paring knife inserted at the wide end, both sides pops that baby out no problem. It kind of clicks out a little then repeat on the other side and it’s mine! Glucose testing strips don’t really work in my experience (Obvs I was doing it wrong not inserting the strip under the line at the thin end (Thanks Tom! ❤️🇬🇧)
I had watched this video in the past, but until today I had never needed to restart a G6 sensor (I used to restart G5s all the time because it was so easy). I messed up the start on a new sensor today and this was the only way to back up and restart and avoid wasting the sensor. I searched for this video knowing it would help. I used method #2, inserting test strip to break the connection. It worked like a dream! Thank you!
Thanks mate. In Australia we have good government subsidies with Insurance, so thankfully this isn’t my only option to have a cgm 24/7. But I hate the amount of medical waste I produce. Having this method will allow me to extend my sensors out a little while to reduce my consumption, and it’ll be great if I’m ever in a pinch with my pharmacy orders. I’m in a rural area so sometimes it takes a while to get restocked when things run out.
Thanks so much! After recent delays in getting my usual 90 day supply by my insurance carrier, I used your hack to extend just one cycle of the sensor/transmitter to bridge that too close next 3-month Rx refill. I am blessed in having Medicare with United Healthcare Advantage, so recently got them to recognize that that insurance fully covers the Rx for the sensor (instead of my having to pay and wait for the insurance to also pay it in full by 1 month at a time to get a refund) so my Rx is fully covered and I have no co-pay. I feel for those responding here that tell of the expense they have for this Rx.
Oh, meant to add, the second method (using the test strip inserted to break the contact for 20 minutes) worked for me when I couldn't get the first method to work - thanks again!!
I have the same insurance but with the whole "can only order refill this far in advance" my sensor is set to expire a day before my shipment arrives! Thank goodness for this video! I still have my test kit but sure don't want to have to use it if I can avoid it.
I just did the "pop out" reset method. My wife was nervous to help so I suggested she watch your video first. I would have done it myself, but it's where I can't really see it. With a few seconds of fiddling with it, it popped out, and to make sure it was long enough, I waited half an hour. I didn't have the sensor code, so I used the one you showed in this video (5937) and it accepted it. Now it's in the 2-hour warmup period, so it looks like it worked. Yay! EDIT: It just finished warming up, and since it said my sugar was almost 300, I tested it with an "old fashioned" tester. It was 142. So maybe the sensor code matters. Anyway, I'll do a few calibrations and see if it corrects itself. EDIT 2: Over the period of 45 minutes, I tested with a lancet and test strips 4 times. Now the Dexcom is reading within less than 5 mg/dL.
I just tried #2, but with a shorter test strip, I only was able to put about 3/4" in. I had to wiggle the test strip up and down to get it to slide in, slowly. Pulling it out was simple with a pair of blunt nosed pliers. After 20 minutes I pulled it out and started the sensor using the sensor code. And it is now in the 2-hour startup stage. Thank you.
This is a great video, the only advice you gave that I would not recommend is to use a random sensor code. These codes are calibration codes that system uses to determine correct ranges when reading the glucose levels in the body. These are established for that sensor at the factory, using the wrong code can potentially result in incorrect glucose readings in the app. This isn't always the case but it is a possibility.
@@brittanyf1644 I take a picture of the code before I dispose of the backing paper. Of course, this is convenient because I already have my phone out to start the sensor with my G6 app. 🙂
Hey Tom! My very first DG6 sensor was due to expire yesterday (12-28-21) and I successfully restarted it, using the first method in this video. (I managed to find a very slim flathead screwdriver that worked better than an accu-check test trip, or a credit card. You just have to be a little more careful.) I entered the same code from this original sensor and that worked fine. The warmup period took longer than the initial warmup though. It seemed to be stuck on "5 minutes remaining" for a while, but when it finally displayed readings there were already three readings to show. I saw where you said not to calibrate for the first 24 hours on a restart, so I didn't, but it was WAY off... consistently reading about 50 points high. I plan to let this sensor go for another 4 days, then end it. I will also adjust my placement slightly on the next sensor. First one I put on the outside of my arm, just below the deltoid, because I am a side-sleeper, but I think the next sensor will go a little more toward the inside, so I can see a little easier to pop out that transmitter. Thanks for all these videos! Love your humor and your accent. You could easily play a James Bond villain. Maybe in a future video you could hold a white cat! ;-) Thanks again for all the info!
Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your experience my friend. I loved your comment about a villain. I will try to see if I find a white cat for the next video:)
Mine also. After starting up again, it was very high. Then levelled off on day two. Since I use mine for lifestyle, not diabetes, I just calculate 4 for 5 or 7 for 8. As I have a baseline from my first 10 days I know it's running about 1 point higher. I can still read patterns well enough. Paying full price was very high, so doubling my time makes it a bit more affordable.
Same here - restarting was a breeze once I managed to insert a piece of plastic between the sensor and the transmitter but the new readings seem about 30% higher than normal. I will wait for 24 hours before calibrating it.
@@mamihaylov so did your numbers in the balancing out to original or were they still high like off points??? I’m going to do this soon, so I’m wondering if it’s worth it to do it because if it’s going to get me off Numbers then why should I just do this?
No luck! I tried the method of inserting a test strip between the two pieces of the transmitter, using the same sensor code I had for this sensor. I got a No Restart warning. Tried with No Code, same. so I guess I will be done unless/until I get my next sensors. Insurance doesn't pay for type2 but I found it was really enlightening as to what was going on. My blood sugar is rarely below 109 but I am getting the hang of this diabetes thing. My mom was type 1, from back when they referred to it as "brittle diabetes" and it was one shot a day and good luck. She eventually had a leg amputated above the knee, some retinopathy (but could still see, and read with a magnifying glass), and neuropathy. She passed before this technology was available; I think it could really have helped her. I wish you luck managing your diabetes Tom, you seem to have a lock on this!
Omg thank you so much!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 I had put a new sensor on and put my transmitter in and the app stopped working an hour later 😫 so had to reinstall the app and it wanted my SN, I was not about to take my sensor off after only an hour and thanks to you I didn’t have to. 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
THANK YOU!!!!!! You probably know how much help this is to people. I lose signal 2-3 days before the 10 days is up for a new sensor. It’s been a ongoing issue forever and then I’m short at the end of the cycle. Thank you again. I really appreciate it 👍🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸
Just tried this and I can personally say the guitar pick works perfectly. Im now going to double the lifespan of every sensor I use. Stuff this "10days" rubbish. I'll be going to 20days with each one from now on 👍
IT WORKED.. Thank You.. I placed my order over a month ago & of course they were late shipping it, so my sensor ran out before & I watched your video & used the test strip leave in way & it is working... my new supply should be here in a few days,,Thanks again
Night before last I got notified 24 hours left I called yesterday to find out the company canceled my order. 3 business day wait. I half remember your video. I found it at 413pm today. I've done it ....so far it looks as though it might work! Thank u!
Pump user for 21 years. Sensor wearer for 4 years. Card and rounded part of paper lip for dislodging from holder. Microwave isolation for 20 min. Code from previous flap. Thanks much. 19 days thus far.
Literal life safer I had no sensors left at all and the trial one I was given was not acting right can’t thank you enough for this as I have been a diabetic for the past 11 years and about a year ago got the Dexcom sensor anyways thank you so much for this vital information 😁
Did this years ago and it recently stopped working. So i did your first technique. Put the transmitter in the microwave wrapped in tinfoil. closed the Dexcom app on my phone. then put my phone in airplane mode for around 10 minutes. Took phone out of airplane mode, opened dexcom app, put the transmitter back in, entered a code, and it worked !!!
Not sure if you'll see this comment but maybe others will. Your hack was a good one. This is our experience. 😊 For my wife. I wasn't able to pop it out with a test strip. I was able to slip it under. Waited 20 mins. Wife wanted a new transmitter. So that is not working either. Might have a bad sensor were guessing. Also I Used a very small flat blade screwdriver and popped it out. Never came close to the connections. She will call them to see about a replacement. Thanks for your videos.
Omg this video saved my life! I ran out of both my dexcom and test strips I had to wait 2 days for the test strips and almost a week for my dexcom shipment. The second method worked for me way easier than the first I couldn’t get the other side loop to loosen. Thank you so much!
I have also been Type 1 for 30 years! Thank you so much for this hack, I subscribed and am looking forward to checking out your other tips and hacks. Thank you!
omg I did i got my dexcom G6 to reset I cant say thank you enough i tried to reset it 10 days ago for the first time and it wouldn't let me after watching your video I did exactly what you said and it worked. I have Hypoglycemia and MS and my MS is reeking havoc with my sugar levels and because i am not a diabetic there is no help for me to get my supplies so thank you now i dont have to with it till i can afford to get more
Thank you so much for this! U posted this a year ago but I’m just now seeing this. I haven’t had insurance for about 2 months. I’ll have insurance in about a month or so but this hack really helped a lot to add a few more days on my last sensor. God bless u!
Dude! Thanks so much! I am always running out of sensors before reorders. This hack will get me by for now, and maybe I can use it to create a slight surplus! You're a lifesaver!
I ordered a refill of sensors 1.5 weeks ago & they didn't ship until yesterday afternoon 😑 So yesterday morning I despaired about what to do (last sensor expiring in 24hrs), searched for a "hack" and found this video. Tried the steps about an hour ago (popped the transmitter out) - not as easy as you made it look LOL but I guess it takes practice. I succeeded, waited a little over 20min, and now the sensor is warming up for a 2nd round. Should only need this for a couple days and hope it's not something I have to do often; but I'm relieved that it is possible. Thank you so much for taking the time to share and detail this!
And it occurs to me after a day: I went to the trouble so I may as well leave it on for a full additional 10 days, right? But I wonder whether the calibration diminishes over time on a "2nd round" with a sensor, and how frequently re-calibrating will be needed as a result? I'll prob do one daily, as annoying as it'll be.
There is a much more simple method - bluetooth unpaired. 1 - stop the sensor and wait 15 minuter 2 - restart the sensor and remove the transmitter from bluetooth. Use your saved sensor code. 3 - wait for about 1h55 minuter (little less than the 2h varmup and then let the transmitter pair with bluetooth. 4 - finishen It has always worked for me, and you dont have to mess with the transmitter. On 10% you have to do this twice, but is has always worked finally.
Thank you for posting this! I got off work late and wasn’t able to pick up my sensors and didn’t have any left over. Mine had expired and I had major anxiety about going to sleep without a sensor on. I was able to easily pop the transmitter out with a test strip.
Tom, thanks for this hack. I had my first Dexcom G6 attached at my doctor's office 10 days ago (It was a sample from the doctor). My doctor wanted to see me in 14 days (she was not going to be available sooner than that) to see how I was doing with my blood readings and also my acceptance of the device. So rather than having this 4 day period of not using the Dexcom G6, I tried your first method and it worked like a charm. As I am writing this comment, the Dexcom G6 is halfway through the warmup period. Thanks again.
Awesome video! My son and i both have type 1. My son is away at college and just used his last sensor. I already know how to restart a sensor but i wanted to find a video to teach him how to do that until he can get home for more sensors. I watched several videos and liked yours the best! You covered all the things i wanted to show him and you show very clearly how to pop the sensor out. I didn't know about method 2 but I will try it next time. Method, 2 may be easier with an abdomen site. Popping out out is easy enough :). Thank so much for an excellent video. Obrigada!
Today will be the second time I need to use this hack. Thank you! I don't know if this has been mentioned, but my model actually lists each code entered for a session in the CGM history for Sessions & Calibrations.
Thank you soooo much for these tips. I wear G6 as well and on day 9 always stops working and to add new sensor. I am actually doing this now using your 2nd method and is in the warming up mode. If this works, you are a complete genius and my hero!!!!
Hey Tom thanks for this awesome hack. I’m hoping it’s got me out of a tight situation. Away from home for weekend,inserted new sensor and not working. No spare and no glucose test strips. Got the transmitter out using a plastic toothpick/floss thing. Hope it’s not a faulty sensor!
Thanks for these hacks! I found also a good way of removing safely the transmitter with a use of guitar pick :) The pick can't be either too thick or too thin. It's more stiff than the strip but still very safe to use. No sharp edges etc. Worked like a charm!
Just wanted to say a big thank you for your advice on getting an extension on the dexcom my granddaughter is using her last one and it's now ran out so in the middle of the 2 hour warm up 😁keeping fingers crossed it works
Wanted to say thank you. I have been on the dexcom g6 for about 9 months and your hack to reuse the sensor worked awesome for me. I used two small Contor Next test strips. Placed one on each side of the transmitter and even with it being on my upper back arm and using my non-dominant hand was able to free the sensor easily by myself. I am going to try the transmitter removal from the skinny end the next time and see how that fairs. But again thank you. Was very helpful.
I wouldn't try removal from the skinny end as that could break the tab or damage the transmitter contacts. The wider end is what clicks into place last when you put it in, and it's held by tension. That's why it pops out when you lift it up.
Thank you so so much for this info. I'm having a real stressful time right now in my life. And my supplies are high as he'll. This is awesome help for me. Son just helped me pop the transmitter out, I was so happy when it worked!! Thanks again❤
I prefer the first one as I live alone and visually disabled. Thank you so much for sharing. Hopefully the credit card or guitar picked work for me❣️🇨🇦
This whole video just shows me how fucked up the medical industry is because if these things are able to use longer than why the hell do I have to replace mine every 10 days why can’t one just work for two weeks or so on and so forth
Ditto on preferring the first method -I haven't tried the second method yet (test strip inserted to disconnect transmitter and sensor) because I worry that I wouldn't insert it correctly, having to start over. Thanks for the video! I've extended my sensor 4 times, and each time I come back to this video for a how-to refresh. Been using dexcom for almost 5 years, and celebrating my 29th diaversary on 5/12 😱🥳 -T1D who's very thankful for not having to poke a trillion -exaggeration- times a day.
Really useful advice. I have to have regular scans, and being able to extend the G6 for a couple of days or so would, occasionally, be very useful. Many thanks.
Great tip. I used a .73 Dunlop Ultex guitar pick. Dislodged on one side, then popped it out when dislodging the other side. Used the same code. No problems. But my sensor was only 2 days old when the Dexcom app ended it because my iPhone crashed and I had just installed a new sensor and paired a new transmitter. When I restored my phone from my iCloud backup, it was 5 days older, so it my old sensor and transmitter dates. I didn't want to waist a sensor due to an iPhone crash.
Tom - Thanks for this hack. With the US insurance restrictions, I found Option 2 inserting a test strip over the diodes between the sensor and transmitter worked like a charm. Used your codes successfully. I can now have dedicated continuous CGM coverage. To manage infection risk, I figure 15 days total (like the Libre) would be my maximum time to extend on 1 sensor. BTW, Option 1-Trying to pull the transmitter did not work with my "angel wing skin turgor." Hah! = o
Thank you!!! We forgot to pick up our refill yesterday , so last night her sensor expired. She uses the Omnipod 5, so we were in a panick. We used the first method with code 9117, and it totally worked. Thank you!
(Added a comment yesterday but it didn’t appear. Will try again.) Just now discovered you, Tom, and I look forward to watching more of your videos. I was searching for how to reboot my G6 sensor and found you here. First I tried using a test strip (Contour). I can’t imagine how a flimsy test strip could move a fixed transmitter! I tried it multiple times, and each time it simply bent the strip. I tried a different kind (Freestyle), using two at a time, and nothing. Don’t have a guitar pick, so then I used a credit card. Most are too thick to fit, but I found one where a corner could fit in. Transmitter would not budge. How are all these other folks accomplishing it so easily??
Thank you! I used the first method today, because I accidentally put in the wrong transmitter. It was quick and easy using the corner of my Blue Cross insurance card. Ha! An "added benefit" to my insurance plan. 😂
I use the second method and i extend my sensor every time. It's usually about as accurate although it does tend to drop readings sometimes for a coupe hours. But at the price tag for a new sensor i consider it worth it.
Hello. I just wanted to thank you. This information was extremely helpful for us. I prefer method 1 as well God bless you and thank you again for the information. 🙏
Hey Tom i really like watching your videos and I like this video i had reuse a sensor yesterday and I like the first method you used it was really easy and so far works great i really appreciate it keep up the good and helpful videos Thanks Donnie
Thanks for this valuable hack! It’ll save me a ton of money and give the rest of my skin much needed time to heal from the adhesive. I prefer option 1 but couldn’t get it out with a test strip. After various attempts with other things, what finally worked was my flimsy laminated insurance card.
Thank you so much for this!! My new insurance has been so difficult to work with and it’s been hard to get all of my supplies including insulin. Especially since it’s Christmas right now I might not have more sensors for a while so you’re really saving my life here (figuratively and literally)!
Awesome sauce…used the 2 method and works great as well as the codes you showed. Was on my last day and have the pump and my Endo dragging their feet on getting script filled.
I restarted sensor with method 1 yesterday, it started showing a difference of 130 points but within 24 hours the difference is just 20 points now, I will keep calibrating once daily to make sure its working fine. thanks for your video. EDIT: After couple of days of calibration sensor reading is just 5 points off now. My insurance doesn't cover cgm so this method saves me lot of bucks. EDIT 2: restarted it 2nd time
One thing to remember with the G6 transmitters is that they will only transmit for 120 days, regardless of the number of sensors you have used it on. So, you can save on sensors, but you are still limited on the transmitter with no way to extend its life. I think the best reason to extend a transmitter is if you have been forced to remove a sensor before its normal 10-day life (I have lost a couple in the last year due to sweat), so you can extend the next sensor or two to make up for the lost days.
@@fordperfect1227 I don't think anyone is suggesting that. Always move the site around each time it is changed. The issue here is how much you can extend each sensor. I've found that 15 days is about max, then they just stop working. I don't extend all the time, but if I have lost a sensor due to sweat, I can't get "extra" ones until my 90 days are up, so I'll extend the next 2 sensors to make up for the lost days. If you really wanted to save money on sensors, you could extend all of them the full 15 days and only use 8 sensors over the life of a transmitter.
Great reason for considering Libre2 sensors- if “it” stops working working for any reason, or falls prior to the 14th day- Abbott (the co.) replaces it for free- no need to deal with Ins CO. nor pharmacy
I need to extend a sensor for one day to do an MRI. Thanks for the tips. I am going to try it next week. If it doesn’t work that’s okay also. Just one day without a sensor or readings.
Medicaid won’t approve my refills for the Dexcom so I’m running out this week with my last sensor and I really hope this works because without a Dexcom my sugar stays high from not knowing it every five minutes!! Thank you!! I’m type one As well and before I started the Dexcom for 6 years my A1C was around 14 which is the highest and now with a Dexcom G6, my A1C is 7.2 so I’m so thankful for this!!
Shame the supplies are so expensive in the US. I am still using an old insulin pump and Libre2. My HgbA1C is 5.9 but it is lots of work.. Can you visit a nurse educator? Congrats on lowering your HgbA1C.
Well we just discovered an awesome 'tool' for removing the transmitter without much fuss.. although I have my spouse do the handy work while I keep still... ha We use a Collar Stay! it's perfect. :-)
I tried the hairclip while it was on my skin, used the bigger end and shimmied it in between the sides like you do with the test strip :) worked like a charm
I like removing the transmitter method, which once you've done it a few times is easy. Inserting a strip to disable the sensor contact is not only harder, but you run the risk of damaging the contacts, and you can't clean the contacts with alcohol that can get contaminated after wearing it for 10 days. From other videos I thought you had to use the exact code that came with the sensor to restart from other restart videos but I noticed that many of my sensors had the same code so now I just use the same code over and over with no problem. One issue is whether that code has something to do with improving the start-up accuracy of a new sensor or why else have a code? Even if that is true I notice anytime I restart a sensor I have to do an initial and sometimes one or two extra blood glucose calibrations hopefully at the upper and lower end of the range like around 180 and 60 to get it back to accurate readings. On a side note the best place I have found to place sensors is on the upper left and right buttocks toward the outside just below the top underwear band. This makes it easy to insert a new sensor and pop out the transmitter on restarts and my underwear/clothing shields it from bumps that could dislodge the sensor and hides it so no one even knows you have one!
Had to do this when inserted an expired transmitter and didn’t want to waste a sensor. Contour Next testing strip didn’t work, too bendy but GlucoMen areo Ketone Sensor testing strip worked perfectly. Thanks..
It works! I used the 2nd technique of inserting a used test strip into the narrow end of the transmitter. The readings were very wonky-high despite frequently calibrating for a day and a half, but then it started closely matching with my finger sticks. Save the code on your sensor. The lengthy time it took to calibrate might have been due to using a code on another sensor. I don’t have diabetes, or even pre-diabetes, so I have to pay for them myself. A month’s worth cost me $100. Since I mostly use a cgm as my Jimminy Cricket to keep me eating low-carb, this work-around is a great way to extend the life of a sensor. Why are they only good for 10 days anyway?
Because the product it mostly all paid by insurances so it’s the more often they say they need to be replaced the more money in the manufactures pockets. The main legit reason I believe is because the sensor has something actually penetrating your skin so infection is a concern but I think as long as the site is disinfected properly one should expect 14 days with no issues. I’m a cheap ass and paying out of pocket so I will definitely be pushing the boundaries.
What a GREAT Video ! When I came across your video, I was really frustrated. I decided to take apart [very carefully] the inserter, VERY carefully. The only thing I succeed at, was inventing a new drinking game: "Find a porcupine in the dark".
Watch next: 8 Tips and hacks for Dexcom G6 th-cam.com/video/EcICABygTt8/w-d-xo.html
7 Tips to make your Dexcom G6 stick th-cam.com/video/ST8VLEowziU/w-d-xo.html
+15133860766
@@michaelpetro9757?
So can’t you just tap stop sensor on the Dexcom app wait 20-30 minutes then put in the code rather then do these methods?
My first six years with IDDM Type I (diagnosed 1981) I had no insurance coverage for it- all supplies needles and insulin were cash. We didn't get a decent glucometer until about 1992- and they were pretty expensive as well. This is some very good advice for those who have the similar problems I had years ago. I hope your son stays well!!
Hey I don't think it's good advice to use the same code over and over. My understanding of G6 is that the code is not so much a serial number as it is a code to identify how the sensor is calibrated. If you use any random code it could most likely lead to inaccurate reading which you could fix with regular calibrations but still I think it would be better to use no code and calibrate once a day or at normal finger stick times (what's the point of the CGM then? To have CONTINUOUS monitoring of course :) )
Thank you so much for this information, my 12 year old has type 1 and it’s like pulling teeth trying to get her supplies. My opinion diabetic patients should get all their supplies for free because they need it to LIVE!
Yes, exactly my opinion. Here in Germany, the health insurance pays for my test strips or CGM in full. You automatically have health insurance here, it's mandatory, not an option. So I don't need to use this hack. I only have to make a small additional payment of 10 € (current rate 11 $) for my insulin itself. That's enough for 2-3 months.
In Australia you get paid $140 fortnightly disability: you get dexcom or any CGM device and transmitters for free every time you order it in. and we get a healthcare card and, We use the disability money to pay for items that have keystone strips pay full price use disability money and the normal BGL strips no cost at the pharmacy. Insulin pay nothing for. Everything in Australia paid for. I couldn’t imagine having to pay for this I would be broke.
Dr They had just changed the long acting insulin to different type and I have so many of the old medication they just said throw it all out: i can’t even donate it. I still haven’t. Yes this should be available for all type 1s for free for all around the world it should be like this at all…
%100 agree 25y o type since age 9. It’s all management.
In the UK we get libre 2 or dexcom One for free if we're insulin dependent (even type 2), as well as your insulin. The way it should be as you say.
Yes we should!
I used a test strip, stuck it through the loop hole, left in for 30 minutes, and restarted it. Works for me. Thanks
Still works?
I enlisted my husband to help me with the removal and restart. I needed 2 more days because I was having an MRI and did not want to waste a sensor. It worked perfectly. Thank you.
In my experience, Dexcom replaces my sensor if I have to remove it for an MRI. That's happened at least 5 times in the past 4 years, and they've replaced it each time with no problem.
@@Karen-dm8eq People are saying that Dexcom is only replacing 3 sensors per year
You don't need to keep the sensor code if your using the g6 with your tslim x2 pump. Can find the last sensor code in your pump. Options > History > CGM History > Sessions and calibrations > Pick day you inserted sensor and it will have the sensor code next to 'sensor code entered'.
You're welcome!
You are a life saver!
Awesome! This worked thank you
Great advice…
Thank you! So helpful!
Awesome! 👍🏼
Dude this just saved me, my insurance went all haywire starting the new year, from the bottom of my heart man thank you, I’ll be able to go through another day of work without pricking my finger 6 times
Call you insurance company asost these days have this issue but almost all Iinsurances have to cover diabetes equipment, infact it's one of the most commonly covered diseases but yes the new year tends to mess up insurance because they code everything different and change stuff to send.people into a panic. Hope you're doing well!
Thanks so much for the video. I actually heard about this from my Dr who is a type 1 diabetic and wears a Dexcom. She asked me if I’d learned how to hack the sensor yet!? After reminding me that it was not medical advice…she told me what to do and said TH-cam had lots of videos…. so I found you.
My “new” sensor is started up and ready for round two!! I don’t even pay for the sensors (they’re provided by my insurance company) but it’s still nice not to have to change them out all the time, especially when they’re already in a great place.
A life-saver for Medicare patient with such stingy coverage. No more off-cgm days waiting for order approval!
Glad it will help. I feel you! Good luck!
I'm going to try this. I have no insurance
Yes. I am here as a result of massive institutional screwups and unavailability through medicare supply sources. I'm off to give it a try.
Similarly, I'm here (again) because my health insurance company is stingy and these mail-order suppliers I have to use keep screwing everything up.
@@evecarter617 I just finally got on the assistance program that gives me 6 months for 90 bucks basically. they break it into two 3 month payments. but they only said they give half a year at that special setup so ur back to finger sticks the rest of the year.
I cannot thank you enough for this information. My 7 yr old is T1D and her sensor expired last night. I cant get anymore until tuesday. Her bs is not regulated due to her being recently diagnosed and constantly drops severely low. I was so nervous for her to be at school and especially riding the bus without it and her bs drop and she not know until it was too late. I used the test strip to do this method and it worked! I am ever so thankful!
A great thanks from Melbourne. I just took off the sensor with the 1st method and it's not difficult at all. Now I'm waiting to reinsert the transmitter. I really would like to buy you a drink for appreciation if it's possible! You are God send! God bless you Bro.
After trying every method for popping out transmitter I found that inserting 2 thin guitar picks one each side pops the transmitter out EVERY single time. No working your way around with card or test strip, just pop one pick in on one side ( upper mid side of transmitter) leave in place then slide other pick on opposite side same location the transmitter literally jumps out every time upon insertion of second pick
Hasn't failed me even 1 time! ❤
I use a paring knife inserted at the wide end, both sides pops that baby out no problem. It kind of clicks out a little then repeat on the other side and it’s mine! Glucose testing strips don’t really work in my experience (Obvs I was doing it wrong not inserting the strip under the line at the thin end (Thanks Tom! ❤️🇬🇧)
Hi Kimberly. Thank you very much for sharing this!
You are welcome! I see everyone has their own hacks here:)
i gor $3k
text him
Having to order new sensors right before a long public holiday, this'll be a lifesaver, thank you.
I had watched this video in the past, but until today I had never needed to restart a G6 sensor (I used to restart G5s all the time because it was so easy). I messed up the start on a new sensor today and this was the only way to back up and restart and avoid wasting the sensor. I searched for this video knowing it would help. I used method #2, inserting test strip to break the connection. It worked like a dream! Thank you!
Thanks mate. In Australia we have good government subsidies with Insurance, so thankfully this isn’t my only option to have a cgm 24/7. But I hate the amount of medical waste I produce.
Having this method will allow me to extend my sensors out a little while to reduce my consumption, and it’ll be great if I’m ever in a pinch with my pharmacy orders. I’m in a rural area so sometimes it takes a while to get restocked when things run out.
Wow! This is a nice hack for low income single moms, thank you!
You're so welcome! Hope it will work for you:) Good luck!
Not a good ideal my readings were over 100 points off ....high
Thanks so much! After recent delays in getting my usual 90 day supply by my insurance carrier, I used your hack to extend just one cycle of the sensor/transmitter to bridge that too close next 3-month Rx refill. I am blessed in having Medicare with United Healthcare Advantage, so recently got them to recognize that that insurance fully covers the Rx for the sensor (instead of my having to pay and wait for the insurance to also pay it in full by 1 month at a time to get a refund) so my Rx is fully covered and I have no co-pay. I feel for those responding here that tell of the expense they have for this Rx.
Oh, meant to add, the second method (using the test strip inserted to break the contact for 20 minutes) worked for me when I couldn't get the first method to work - thanks again!!
I have the same insurance but with the whole "can only order refill this far in advance" my sensor is set to expire a day before my shipment arrives! Thank goodness for this video! I still have my test kit but sure don't want to have to use it if I can avoid it.
I just did the "pop out" reset method. My wife was nervous to help so I suggested she watch your video first. I would have done it myself, but it's where I can't really see it. With a few seconds of fiddling with it, it popped out, and to make sure it was long enough, I waited half an hour. I didn't have the sensor code, so I used the one you showed in this video (5937) and it accepted it. Now it's in the 2-hour warmup period, so it looks like it worked. Yay!
EDIT: It just finished warming up, and since it said my sugar was almost 300, I tested it with an "old fashioned" tester. It was 142. So maybe the sensor code matters. Anyway, I'll do a few calibrations and see if it corrects itself.
EDIT 2: Over the period of 45 minutes, I tested with a lancet and test strips 4 times. Now the Dexcom is reading within less than 5 mg/dL.
I just tried #2, but with a shorter test strip, I only was able to put about 3/4" in. I had to wiggle the test strip up and down to get it to slide in, slowly. Pulling it out was simple with a pair of blunt nosed pliers. After 20 minutes I pulled it out and started the sensor using the sensor code. And it is now in the 2-hour startup stage. Thank you.
This is a great video, the only advice you gave that I would not recommend is to use a random sensor code. These codes are calibration codes that system uses to determine correct ranges when reading the glucose levels in the body. These are established for that sensor at the factory, using the wrong code can potentially result in incorrect glucose readings in the app. This isn't always the case but it is a possibility.
I save the code whenever I put in a new sensor and store it with my Dexcom supplies. I reuse that number until I toss the sensor for a new one.
@@brittanyf1644 I take a picture of the code before I dispose of the backing paper. Of course, this is convenient because I already have my phone out to start the sensor with my G6 app. 🙂
Hey Tom! My very first DG6 sensor was due to expire yesterday (12-28-21) and I successfully restarted it, using the first method in this video. (I managed to find a very slim flathead screwdriver that worked better than an accu-check test trip, or a credit card. You just have to be a little more careful.) I entered the same code from this original sensor and that worked fine. The warmup period took longer than the initial warmup though. It seemed to be stuck on "5 minutes remaining" for a while, but when it finally displayed readings there were already three readings to show. I saw where you said not to calibrate for the first 24 hours on a restart, so I didn't, but it was WAY off... consistently reading about 50 points high. I plan to let this sensor go for another 4 days, then end it. I will also adjust my placement slightly on the next sensor. First one I put on the outside of my arm, just below the deltoid, because I am a side-sleeper, but I think the next sensor will go a little more toward the inside, so I can see a little easier to pop out that transmitter. Thanks for all these videos! Love your humor and your accent. You could easily play a James Bond villain. Maybe in a future video you could hold a white cat! ;-) Thanks again for all the info!
Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your experience my friend. I loved your comment about a villain. I will try to see if I find a white cat for the next video:)
i had exactly the same. the last 5 minutes warm-up was more like 15 minutes and after that the values were about 50 too high.
Mine also. After starting up again, it was very high. Then levelled off on day two. Since I use mine for lifestyle, not diabetes, I just calculate 4 for 5 or 7 for 8. As I have a baseline from my first 10 days I know it's running about 1 point higher. I can still read patterns well enough. Paying full price was very high, so doubling my time makes it a bit more affordable.
Same here - restarting was a breeze once I managed to insert a piece of plastic between the sensor and the transmitter but the new readings seem about 30% higher than normal. I will wait for 24 hours before calibrating it.
@@mamihaylov so did your numbers in the balancing out to original or were they still high like off points??? I’m going to do this soon, so I’m wondering if it’s worth it to do it because if it’s going to get me off Numbers then why should I just do this?
No luck! I tried the method of inserting a test strip between the two pieces of the transmitter, using the same sensor code I had for this sensor. I got a No Restart warning. Tried with No Code, same. so I guess I will be done unless/until I get my next sensors. Insurance doesn't pay for type2 but I found it was really enlightening as to what was going on. My blood sugar is rarely below 109 but I am getting the hang of this diabetes thing. My mom was type 1, from back when they referred to it as "brittle diabetes" and it was one shot a day and good luck. She eventually had a leg amputated above the knee, some retinopathy (but could still see, and read with a magnifying glass), and neuropathy. She passed before this technology was available; I think it could really have helped her. I wish you luck managing your diabetes Tom, you seem to have a lock on this!
Omg thank you so much!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 I had put a new sensor on and put my transmitter in and the app stopped working an hour later 😫 so had to reinstall the app and it wanted my SN, I was not about to take my sensor off after only an hour and thanks to you I didn’t have to. 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
THANK YOU!!!!!!
You probably know how much help this is to people.
I lose signal 2-3 days before the 10 days is up for a new sensor. It’s been a ongoing issue forever and then I’m short at the end of the cycle.
Thank you again. I really appreciate it
👍🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻🇺🇸
I really like the information that Tom and Christel (Diabetes Strong) provide. Useful and understandable. Thanks!
Just tried this and I can personally say the guitar pick works perfectly. Im now going to double the lifespan of every sensor I use. Stuff this "10days" rubbish. I'll be going to 20days with each one from now on 👍
Awesome! Glad it helped❣
I left the sensor on my atm until it stopped/failed working (roughly 15 days total I believe). It wouldn't go to 20days I don't think
Thank you for sharing!
IT WORKED.. Thank You.. I placed my order over a month ago & of course they were late shipping it, so my sensor ran out before & I watched your video & used the test strip leave in way & it is working... my new supply should be here in a few days,,Thanks again
Night before last I got notified 24 hours left I called yesterday to find out the company canceled my order. 3 business day wait. I half remember your video. I found it at 413pm today. I've done it ....so far it looks as though it might work! Thank u!
Pump user for 21 years. Sensor wearer for 4 years. Card and rounded part of paper lip for dislodging from holder. Microwave isolation for 20 min. Code from previous flap. Thanks much. 19 days thus far.
A paper CLIP not paper lip, of course. I loosened one side then the other.
Thank you for sharing the tips Edwards really appreciate it
Awesome hack, pharmacy took 10 days to order replacement sensors. Thank you!
Literal life safer I had no sensors left at all and the trial one I was given was not acting right can’t thank you enough for this as I have been a diabetic for the past 11 years and about a year ago got the Dexcom sensor anyways thank you so much for this vital information 😁
Did this years ago and it recently stopped working.
So i did your first technique. Put the transmitter in the microwave wrapped in tinfoil. closed the Dexcom app on my phone. then put my phone in airplane mode for around 10 minutes. Took phone out of airplane mode, opened dexcom app,
put the transmitter back in, entered a code, and it worked !!!
Not sure if you'll see this comment but maybe others will.
Your hack was a good one. This is our experience. 😊
For my wife. I wasn't able to pop it out with a test strip. I was able to slip it under. Waited 20 mins. Wife wanted a new transmitter. So that is not working either. Might have a bad sensor were guessing. Also I Used a very small flat blade screwdriver and popped it out. Never came close to the connections.
She will call them to see about a replacement.
Thanks for your videos.
Omg this video saved my life! I ran out of both my dexcom and test strips I had to wait 2 days for the test strips and almost a week for my dexcom shipment. The second method worked for me way easier than the first I couldn’t get the other side loop to loosen.
Thank you so much!
I have also been Type 1 for 30 years! Thank you so much for this hack, I subscribed and am
looking forward to checking out your other tips and hacks. Thank you!
omg I did i got my dexcom G6 to reset I cant say thank you enough i tried to reset it 10 days ago for the first time and it wouldn't let me after watching your video I did exactly what you said and it worked. I have Hypoglycemia and MS and my MS is reeking havoc with my sugar levels and because i am not a diabetic there is no help for me to get my supplies so thank you now i dont have to with it till i can afford to get more
Thank you so much for this! U posted this a year ago but I’m just now seeing this. I haven’t had insurance for about 2 months. I’ll have insurance in about a month or so but this hack really helped a lot to add a few more days on my last sensor. God bless u!
Dude! Thanks so much! I am always running out of sensors before reorders. This hack will get me by for now, and maybe I can use it to create a slight surplus! You're a lifesaver!
You’re most welcome!
I ordered a refill of sensors 1.5 weeks ago & they didn't ship until yesterday afternoon 😑 So yesterday morning I despaired about what to do (last sensor expiring in 24hrs), searched for a "hack" and found this video. Tried the steps about an hour ago (popped the transmitter out) - not as easy as you made it look LOL but I guess it takes practice. I succeeded, waited a little over 20min, and now the sensor is warming up for a 2nd round. Should only need this for a couple days and hope it's not something I have to do often; but I'm relieved that it is possible. Thank you so much for taking the time to share and detail this!
And it occurs to me after a day: I went to the trouble so I may as well leave it on for a full additional 10 days, right? But I wonder whether the calibration diminishes over time on a "2nd round" with a sensor, and how frequently re-calibrating will be needed as a result? I'll prob do one daily, as annoying as it'll be.
There is a much more simple method - bluetooth unpaired.
1 - stop the sensor and wait 15 minuter
2 - restart the sensor and remove the transmitter from bluetooth. Use your saved sensor code.
3 - wait for about 1h55 minuter (little less than the 2h varmup and then let the transmitter pair with bluetooth.
4 - finishen
It has always worked for me, and you dont have to mess with the transmitter. On 10% you have to do this twice, but is has always worked finally.
Thanks a lot for sharing Peder. I will definitely try this out!
+15133860766
+15133860766
text him
Any one else try this ? What's 10% in reference to ? Thanks !
Thank you for posting this! I got off work late and wasn’t able to pick up my sensors and didn’t have any left over. Mine had expired and I had major anxiety about going to sleep without a sensor on. I was able to easily pop the transmitter out with a test strip.
You are most welcome Jessica. Thank you for sharing your experience!
THANK YOU! This saved me from going 2-3 days without a sensor!
Tom, thanks for this hack. I had my first Dexcom G6 attached at my doctor's office 10 days ago (It was a sample from the doctor). My doctor wanted to see me in 14 days (she was not going to be available sooner than that) to see how I was doing with my blood readings and also my acceptance of the device. So rather than having this 4 day period of not using the Dexcom G6, I tried your first method and it worked like a charm. As I am writing this comment, the Dexcom G6 is halfway through the warmup period. Thanks again.
You are most welcome. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Awesome video! My son and i both have type 1. My son is away at college and just used his last sensor. I already know how to restart a sensor but i wanted to find a video to teach him how to do that until he can get home for more sensors. I watched several videos and liked yours the best! You covered all the things i wanted to show him and you show very clearly how to pop the sensor out. I didn't know about method 2 but I will try it next time. Method, 2 may be easier with an abdomen site. Popping out out is easy enough :). Thank so much for an excellent video. Obrigada!
Confirming this works Nov 4, 2022. Thank you very much. Ran out of sensors and did it for my daughter.
Great tip. And yes the blood test strip is strong enough to release the sensor for it's two clips.
Today will be the second time I need to use this hack. Thank you! I don't know if this has been mentioned, but my model actually lists each code entered for a session in the CGM history for Sessions & Calibrations.
Thank you soooo much for these tips. I wear G6 as well and on day 9 always stops working and to add new sensor. I am actually doing this now using your 2nd method and is in the warming up mode. If this works, you are a complete genius and my hero!!!!
Hey Tom thanks for this awesome hack. I’m hoping it’s got me out of a tight situation. Away from home for weekend,inserted new sensor and not working. No spare and no glucose test strips. Got the transmitter out using a plastic toothpick/floss thing. Hope it’s not a faulty sensor!
I get my supplies from the VA and as of late they always seem to fail after a few days. Do any of you guys have this happen. I'm glad I found this!
Thanks for these hacks! I found also a good way of removing safely the transmitter with a use of guitar pick :) The pick can't be either too thick or too thin. It's more stiff than the strip but still very safe to use. No sharp edges etc. Worked like a charm!
You are most welcome my friend. I am glad it worked for you! Wishing you all the best!
Just wanted to say a big thank you for your advice on getting an extension on the dexcom my granddaughter is using her last one and it's now ran out so in the middle of the 2 hour warm up 😁keeping fingers crossed it works
Wanted to say thank you. I have been on the dexcom g6 for about 9 months and your hack to reuse the sensor worked awesome for me. I used two small Contor Next test strips. Placed one on each side of the transmitter and even with it being on my upper back arm and using my non-dominant hand was able to free the sensor easily by myself. I am going to try the transmitter removal from the skinny end the next time and see how that fairs. But again thank you. Was very helpful.
I wouldn't try removal from the skinny end as that could break the tab or damage the transmitter contacts. The wider end is what clicks into place last when you put it in, and it's held by tension. That's why it pops out when you lift it up.
Thank you so so much for this info. I'm having a real stressful time right now in my life. And my supplies are high as he'll. This is awesome help for me. Son just helped me pop the transmitter out, I was so happy when it worked!! Thanks again❤
You saved my day, we were struggling to start a NEW sensor and your trick worked thx for the share and GG to whom found it
I prefer the first one as I live alone and visually disabled. Thank you so much for sharing. Hopefully the credit card or guitar picked work for me❣️🇨🇦
This whole video just shows me how fucked up the medical industry is because if these things are able to use longer than why the hell do I have to replace mine every 10 days why can’t one just work for two weeks or so on and so forth
Ditto on preferring the first method -I haven't tried the second method yet (test strip inserted to disconnect transmitter and sensor) because I worry that I wouldn't insert it correctly, having to start over.
Thanks for the video! I've extended my sensor 4 times, and each time I come back to this video for a how-to refresh. Been using dexcom for almost 5 years, and celebrating my 29th diaversary on 5/12 😱🥳
-T1D who's very thankful for not having to poke a trillion -exaggeration- times a day.
Thank you for sharing! And I’m wishing you a happy Diaversary! ;)
Really useful advice. I have to have regular scans, and being able to extend the G6 for a couple of days or so would, occasionally, be very useful. Many thanks.
Great tip. I used a .73 Dunlop Ultex guitar pick. Dislodged on one side, then popped it out when dislodging the other side. Used the same code. No problems. But my sensor was only 2 days old when the Dexcom app ended it because my iPhone crashed and I had just installed a new sensor and paired a new transmitter. When I restored my phone from my iCloud backup, it was 5 days older, so it my old sensor and transmitter dates. I didn't want to waist a sensor due to an iPhone crash.
Tom - Thanks for this hack. With the US insurance restrictions, I found Option 2 inserting a test strip over the diodes between the sensor and transmitter worked like a charm. Used your codes successfully. I can now have dedicated continuous CGM coverage. To manage infection risk, I figure 15 days total (like the Libre) would be my maximum time to extend on 1 sensor. BTW, Option 1-Trying to pull the transmitter did not work with my "angel wing skin turgor." Hah! = o
Thank you!!! We forgot to pick up our refill yesterday , so last night her sensor expired. She uses the Omnipod 5, so we were in a panick. We used the first method with code 9117, and it totally worked. Thank you!
(Added a comment yesterday but it didn’t appear. Will try again.)
Just now discovered you, Tom, and I look forward to watching more of your videos. I was searching for how to reboot my G6 sensor and found you here.
First I tried using a test strip (Contour). I can’t imagine how a flimsy test strip could move a fixed transmitter! I tried it multiple times, and each time it simply bent the strip. I tried a different kind (Freestyle), using two at a time, and nothing.
Don’t have a guitar pick, so then I used a credit card. Most are too thick to fit, but I found one where a corner could fit in. Transmitter would not budge.
How are all these other folks accomplishing it so easily??
Thank you! I used the first method today, because I accidentally put in the wrong transmitter. It was quick and easy using the corner of my Blue Cross insurance card. Ha! An "added benefit" to my insurance plan. 😂
I use the second method and i extend my sensor every time. It's usually about as accurate although it does tend to drop readings sometimes for a coupe hours.
But at the price tag for a new sensor i consider it worth it.
Thank you, you really helped me in a moment of trouble!
I prefer number 1.
Hello.
I just wanted to thank you. This information was extremely helpful for us.
I prefer method 1 as well
God bless you and thank you again for the information. 🙏
Hey Tom i really like watching your videos and I like this video i had reuse a sensor yesterday and I like the first method you used it was really easy and so far works great i really appreciate it keep up the good and helpful videos
Thanks Donnie
Incredibly helpful. Method 1 seems to be the easiest/most preferred.
Thanks for this valuable hack! It’ll save me a ton of money and give the rest of my skin much needed time to heal from the adhesive. I prefer option 1 but couldn’t get it out with a test strip. After various attempts with other things, what finally worked was my flimsy laminated insurance card.
The two-tab tip is priceless. Thank you.
Helped me a lot! My dad was having issues and can barely see so this was super helpful!
Thank you so much! I was struggling with the test strip but I guitar pick was absolutely perfect to do this on my own with ease 😊
Thank you so much! Test strip did the trick! I never thought I was going to get it right. Took all of 3 minutes.😂
Thank you so much for this!! My new insurance has been so difficult to work with and it’s been hard to get all of my supplies including insulin. Especially since it’s Christmas right now I might not have more sensors for a while so you’re really saving my life here (figuratively and literally)!
Thank you so much for your kind words my friend. Good luck!
Awesome sauce…used the 2 method and works great as well as the codes you showed. Was on my last day and have the pump and my Endo dragging their feet on getting script filled.
Thank you! Having my wife slide a test strip between the transmitter and sensor works best for me.
I restarted sensor with method 1 yesterday, it started showing a difference of 130 points but within 24 hours the difference is just 20 points now, I will keep calibrating once daily to make sure its working fine. thanks for your video.
EDIT: After couple of days of calibration sensor reading is just 5 points off now. My insurance doesn't cover cgm so this method saves me lot of bucks.
EDIT 2: restarted it 2nd time
How many times are you able to do this and still keep it mostly accurate? Thanks.
Great video, thank you. Method 2 was a lifesaver as I wait for Shylock Insurance to ok next sensor order.
One thing to remember with the G6 transmitters is that they will only transmit for 120 days, regardless of the number of sensors you have used it on. So, you can save on sensors, but you are still limited on the transmitter with no way to extend its life. I think the best reason to extend a transmitter is if you have been forced to remove a sensor before its normal 10-day life (I have lost a couple in the last year due to sweat), so you can extend the next sensor or two to make up for the lost days.
using the same site for 12 sensors (120 days) seems a bit excessive
@@fordperfect1227 I don't think anyone is suggesting that. Always move the site around each time it is changed. The issue here is how much you can extend each sensor. I've found that 15 days is about max, then they just stop working. I don't extend all the time, but if I have lost a sensor due to sweat, I can't get "extra" ones until my 90 days are up, so I'll extend the next 2 sensors to make up for the lost days. If you really wanted to save money on sensors, you could extend all of them the full 15 days and only use 8 sensors over the life of a transmitter.
Great reason for considering Libre2 sensors- if “it” stops working working for any reason, or falls prior to the 14th day- Abbott (the co.) replaces it for free- no need to deal with Ins CO. nor pharmacy
@@ehquez3458 except libre doesn't integrate with insulin pumps. That is the ONLY thing that makes me use a CGM.
Dexcom support will replace if something happens to it before the full 10 days. Just an FYI.
Yooo! Thank you. I’m in the process of doing the First way , for the first time.
I hope this works. THANk you. I have no more replacemts for a minute.
This saved me when I ran out of sensors! Thanks!!!
Thank you for this, it helped with removing the transmitter after I forgot it expired.
massive help - vacation was so much more enjoyable
I need to extend a sensor for one day to do an MRI. Thanks for the tips. I am going to try it next week. If it doesn’t work that’s okay also. Just one day without a sensor or readings.
Medicaid won’t approve my refills for the Dexcom so I’m running out this week with my last sensor and I really hope this works because without a Dexcom my sugar stays high from not knowing it every five minutes!! Thank you!! I’m type one As well and before I started the Dexcom for 6 years my A1C was around 14 which is the highest and now with a Dexcom G6, my A1C is 7.2 so I’m so thankful for this!!
Thank you for sharing! That is a great improvement!
Shame the supplies are so expensive in the US. I am still using an old insulin pump and Libre2. My HgbA1C is 5.9 but it is lots of work.. Can you visit a nurse educator? Congrats on lowering your HgbA1C.
Well we just discovered an awesome 'tool' for removing the transmitter without much fuss.. although I have my spouse do the handy work while I keep still... ha We use a Collar Stay! it's perfect. :-)
I tried the hairclip while it was on my skin, used the bigger end and shimmied it in between the sides like you do with the test strip :) worked like a charm
You are awesome! Thank you! T1 for 43 years
I used your step one removed, worked great using a test strip , thanks great video
Great advice for emergent situations! Thsnks
I like removing the transmitter method, which once you've done it a few times is easy. Inserting a strip to disable the sensor contact is not only harder, but you run the risk of damaging the contacts, and you can't clean the contacts with alcohol that can get contaminated after wearing it for 10 days. From other videos I thought you had to use the exact code that came with the sensor to restart from other restart videos but I noticed that many of my sensors had the same code so now I just use the same code over and over with no problem. One issue is whether that code has something to do with improving the start-up accuracy of a new sensor or why else have a code? Even if that is true I notice anytime I restart a sensor I have to do an initial and sometimes one or two extra blood glucose calibrations hopefully at the upper and lower end of the range like around 180 and 60 to get it back to accurate readings.
On a side note the best place I have found to place sensors is on the upper left and right buttocks toward the outside just below the top underwear band. This makes it easy to insert a new sensor and pop out the transmitter on restarts and my underwear/clothing shields it from bumps that could dislodge the sensor and hides it so no one even knows you have one!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experience. Much appreciated!
Great info and super helpful, especially with all the restrictions and costs that pharmaceutical and insurance providers inflict on those in need.
i used the second method and the code given in the video! thanks!! working great!~
this was the first time I had to do this and your instructions helped A LOt ❤️❤️❤️🎉🎉 thank you ❤️❤️
Amazing, tried method2 and it worked the first time easily! God bless you❤
Thank you! This helped me so much, especially cause I switched insurance and I ran out of sensores
Had to do this when inserted an expired transmitter and didn’t want to waste a sensor. Contour Next testing strip didn’t work, too bendy but GlucoMen areo Ketone Sensor testing strip worked perfectly. Thanks..
It works! I used the 2nd technique of inserting a used test strip into the narrow end of the transmitter. The readings were very wonky-high despite frequently calibrating for a day and a half, but then it started closely matching with my finger sticks. Save the code on your sensor. The lengthy time it took to calibrate might have been due to using a code on another sensor. I don’t have diabetes, or even pre-diabetes, so I have to pay for them myself. A month’s worth cost me $100. Since I mostly use a cgm as my Jimminy Cricket to keep me eating low-carb, this work-around is a great way to extend the life of a sensor. Why are they only good for 10 days anyway?
Because the product it mostly all paid by insurances so it’s the more often they say they need to be replaced the more money in the manufactures pockets. The main legit reason I believe is because the sensor has something actually penetrating your skin so infection is a concern but I think as long as the site is disinfected properly one should expect 14 days with no issues. I’m a cheap ass and paying out of pocket so I will definitely be pushing the boundaries.
Wow where are you buying for $100/month?
This is so helpful! I used #1 and pooped it out!! Thank you!
What a GREAT Video ! When I came across your video, I was really frustrated. I decided to take apart [very carefully] the inserter, VERY carefully. The only thing I succeed at, was inventing a new drinking game: "Find a porcupine in the dark".