Applications and pitfalls of hemoglobin A1C and alternative methods of glycemic monitoring

•Hemoglobin A1C is not an ideal glycemic marker in all patient populations.•Fructosamine, glycated albumin, and 1,5-anhydroglucitol can be used adjunctively.•Continuous glucose monitoring gives real-time feedback to prevent excursions.•All alternative markers need further study in varied and diverse populations.