Sinocare iCan i3 CGM 15 Days Continuous Blood Glucose Monitor

Details

The Sinocare iCan i3 CGM system is a sophisticated medical device intended for individuals with diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) who require comprehensive, continuous tracking of their glucose levels. Unlike traditional meters that provide a single data point, the CGM records glucose every few minutes, offering vital information on glycemic variability, overnight patterns, and the real impact of food and exercise. This continuous oversight is a powerful tool for optimizing therapy and minimizing the risk of long-term diabetes complications in patients across Tanzania and globally.

Product Details

The Full Kit typically contains everything needed to begin monitoring, including:

• Transmitter: The reusable electronic component that sits on the sensor and transmits data via Bluetooth to the smartphone.
• Sensor: The disposable unit that contains the small filament inserted under the skin (valid for 15 days).
• Applicator/Inserter: The device used to safely and easily insert the sensor filament.
• iCan CGM App: The required mobile application (iOS/Android) for receiving, displaying, and analyzing the glucose data, and setting alerts.

Uses

The primary uses of the Sinocare iCan i3 CGM include:

• Continuous tracking of glucose levels every 1–5 minutes for 15 days.
• Providing customizable alerts for predicted or current hyper- and hypoglycemia.
• Allowing users and clinicians to analyze glucose trends and time-in-range metrics.
• Eliminating the need for routine, painful fingerstick testing.

How to Use (Sensor Application)

Provide clear usage instructions:

• Preparation: Clean the application site (usually the back of the upper arm) with alcohol and ensure it is dry.
• Insertion: Load the sensor into the applicator. Place the applicator firmly against the skin and press the insertion button to quickly and painlessly insert the filament. Discard the applicator. Attach the transmitter to the sensor.
• Activation: Use the iCan CGM App to start the sensor session. The sensor will require a warm-up period (typically 1-2 hours) before providing accurate data.
• Duration: The sensor provides data for 15 consecutive days, after which it must be removed and replaced with a new sensor.

Side Effects

Side effects are generally localized to the application site. These may include mild redness, itching, irritation, or adhesive residue upon removal. Less common effects include localized infection or bleeding at the insertion site. If severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection (pus, warmth) occur, the sensor must be removed immediately, and medical advice sought.

Interactions

The CGM system can be affected by external factors and certain medications:

• Medical Procedures: The device must be removed before undergoing procedures such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT scans, or diathermy, as the electromagnetic fields can damage the transmitter and potentially cause skin burns.
• Medications: High doses of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) can sometimes cause artificially elevated glucose readings. Always inform your doctor you are using a CGM.
• Water: The sensor is generally water-resistant but check the manufacturer’s specifications for submersion limits (e.g., maximum depth and time).

Warnings

Key safety warnings to note:

• Not for Emergency: The CGM should NOT be used to determine treatment in emergency hypoglycemia or when symptoms do not match the reading. A standard blood glucose meter (finger prick) must be used to confirm results before treating severe hypo/hyperglycemia.
• Calibration: While the system minimizes finger pricks, the user may still be required to perform occasional calibration using a traditional meter, as directed by the app or meter guidelines, to maintain accuracy.
• Application Site: Do not insert the sensor over scarred, tattooed, or bruised areas.

A Summary Table of Important Information

How Sinocare iCan i3 CGM Works

The Sinocare iCan i3 system measures glucose in the interstitial fluid (ISF), the fluid surrounding the cells, rather than directly in the blood. The sensor filament, placed just under the skin, contains an enzyme that reacts with glucose in the ISF. This reaction generates an electrical signal that is picked up by the transmitter. The transmitter then sends this signal via Bluetooth to the smartphone app. The app translates the signal into a glucose value every few minutes, providing a smooth trend line rather than discrete points. Note that ISF glucose slightly lags behind blood glucose, which the system mathematically accounts for, but the primary value is in observing the direction and rate of change.