What Is Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring?

Noninvasive (NI) glucose monitoring is a method of measuring blood glucose that does not involve breaking the skin. NI glucose monitoring technology under development includes: ²

• Electrochemical technology measuring glucose in alternative fluids such as saliva, sweat, and tears
• Near-infrared spectroscopy using a light source to measure glucose levels in blood vessels through the skin
• Infra-red light and AI technology, using a sensor on the finger, creating photo images that AI technology evaluates to measure blood glucose levels
• Radiofrequency and microwave sensors to measure glucose levels through tissue
• EEG sensor placed behind the ear to monitor blood glucose variations

Are Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring Devices Approved?

FDA approval is granted for glucose monitoring devices used for either medical or lifestyle management. FDA approval for medical management is based on sufficient evidence of safety and accuracy for people living with diabetes. FDA approval ensures adequate evidence to guide treatment decisions, such as insulin dosing. FDA approval for lifestyle use applies to individuals who do not use the device for the medical management of diabetes and who are not on insulin therapy. 

Currently, no NI glucose monitoring devices have received FDA approval for medical management of diabetes. In 2024, the FDA issued a safety announcement that NI glucose devices could pose a possible threat to those with diabetes, as the FDA has not approved them.³ Numerous companies are currently in the research process to advance NI glucose monitoring devices toward FDA approval.

Using Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes Care

When considering noninvasive glucose monitoring, it’s essential to understand how these devices fit into everyday diabetes care. Despite the lack of FDA approval, clients can purchase NI glucose monitoring devices without a prescription. Clients may be using these before the healthcare provider is ever aware.

Individuals living with diabetes should be aware that many factors, including hydration status, skin characteristics, temperature, and movement, can affect NI glucose device readings. These devices may be better suited for detecting general trends but are not approved for making real-time treatment decisions. As diabetes healthcare professionals, we can provide guidance on the use of FDA-approved devices to verify readings and inform treatment decisions. Arming our clients with this information can help avoid frustration and unsafe treatment decisions.

Discussing Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring and Misinformation

Diabetes healthcare providers often approach noninvasive (NI) glucose monitoring with cautious optimism. While the appeal of “no more pokes” is understandable, clients may be influenced by strong marketing claims. As providers, our role is to meet clients where they are to start the conversation.

As with any other FDA-approved diabetes technology, not every device is the right fit for everyone. Ask clients about their diabetes goals, barriers, and assess their digital literacy. Address what clients are seeing on social media and online ads, and how these NI devices compare to current FDA-approved blood glucose monitoring technology.

Here are some helpful tips that can further the conversation:

• Work to understand the clients’ reasoning for wanting to use NI glucose monitoring
• Remain open-minded
• Encourage continued discussion with open-ended questions
• Provide education on risks, benefits, and available alternatives in a non-judgmental manner

As technology advances, we hope to see accurate and safe NI glucose monitoring options for those living with diabetes.  Until then, we can partner with our clients to provide education and clinical insights on the latest trends in diabetes technology.