CONNECT Trial Reveals CGM Benefits for Non-Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes
A recent study shows that continuous glucose monitoring significantly lowers HbA1c levels in adults with type 2 diabetes not treated with insulin.
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) reduced HbA1c levels from 8.8% to 7.2% in the study group.
Participants using CGMs spent 21% more time in the target glucose range compared to routine care.
No severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia-related adverse events were reported during the trial.
The CONNECT trial has demonstrated that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can effectively lower HbA1c levels in adults with type 2 diabetes who are not on insulin therapy. Conducted over 26 weeks, the study involved 283 participants from primary care practices, revealing a significant reduction in mean HbA1c levels from 8.8% to 7.2% among those using CGMs, compared to a decrease from 8.7% to 8.0% in the routine care group.
Historically, CGMs have been recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes and those with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes. However, evidence supporting their use in non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes has been sparse. The American Diabetes Association’s 2026 Standards of Care acknowledges strong evidence for CGM use in insulin-treated patients but only cites limited evidence for those not on insulin, highlighting a gap in research.
The trial's findings indicated that participants using CGMs spent 21 percentage points more time within the target glucose range of 70-180 mg/dL, equating to approximately five additional hours per day in this range. The study also noted that adherence to CGM usage was remarkably high, with participants utilizing the devices 97% of the time, and no severe adverse events related to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia were recorded.
The implications of these findings are significant for the management of type 2 diabetes in the general population. With many patients receiving care in primary care settings, the results suggest that CGMs could be a valuable tool for improving glycemic control in non-insulin-treated individuals. This could lead to better health outcomes and reduced complications associated with diabetes.
Looking ahead, a 26-week extension phase of the CONNECT trial is currently underway to evaluate the long-term effects and sustainability of CGM use. Researchers aim to determine whether the benefits observed during the initial trial phase can be maintained over a more extended period, further solidifying the role of CGMs in diabetes management.
