Top-Rated Insulin Pumps for Managing Diabetes: A Review and More Information
Managing type 1 diabetes just got easier with the latest advancements in insulin pump technology. These devices, designed to help individuals maintain optimal glucose levels, offer improved glycemic control, fewer complications, and a better quality of life for both children and their caregivers.
Tubeless and Tubed Options
Omnipod 5
Approved for ages 2 and up, the Omnipod 5 is a popular tubeless insulin pump that integrates with Dexcom G6, G7, and Libre 2 Plus CGMs. Operated via a handheld Controller or compatible Samsung/iPhone app, it automatically adjusts insulin delivery based on predicted glucose levels over the next 60 minutes to reduce highs and lows. Its discreet design enhances convenience and comfort.
Beta Bionics iLet
The Beta Bionics iLet fully automates 100% of insulin dosing, requiring only user weight and a meal announcement for setup. It is compatible with Dexcom G6, G7, and Libre 3 Plus sensors and offers flexibility with insulin choice. By eliminating the need for basal rates, correction factors, or insulin-to-carb ratios, it simplifies diabetes management.
t:slim X2 (TSlim)
The t:slim X2, a small tubed pump, integrates with Dexcom CGM for automated basal and bolus insulin delivery. It provides auto-bolus once per hour for corrections above 180 mg/dl and customizable basal increments. The rechargeable touchscreen pump offers discreet options like smartphone and watch bolusing, though it is not waterproof.
twiist AID System by Sequel
Designed for ages 6 and older, the twiist AID System automates insulin delivery based on real-time CGM data. It offers features like automatic correction boluses, closed loop functionality, and automatic insulin adjustments without calibration. Bolusing can be done via pump, smartphone, or Apple Watch, and it uses food emojis to simplify carb absorption input.
Other Notable Mentions
The Omnipod Dash is the best tubeless device, while the Medtronic MiniMed 770G System is suitable for ages 2 and up and people with type 1 diabetes. The Dana Diabecare IIS is best for portability, and Roche Accu-Chek is best for connectivity.
The Medtronic MiniMed 630G System is best with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and has a bolus calculator and eight basal patterns. The Roche Accu-Chek system, consisting of an insulin pump and a CGM, all linked through a Bluetooth connection, supports real-time diabetes management.
Empowering Diabetes Management
Insulin pumps deliver insulin in basal or bolus delivery and require a prescription to purchase. Insurance may cover the costs, but not all. The American Diabetes Association states that the only absolute requirement for using an insulin pump is a commitment to use it safely.
A healthcare professional should train people on using insulin pumps. When the pump begins to run out of insulin, a person will either have to replace the cartridge or refill the reservoir from an insulin vial. People will need to find a different area to place the infusion set every 2-3 days.
Insulin pumps may be an important tool for anyone with diabetes, particularly type 1. They can help manage blood glucose levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall quality of life. With their user-friendly designs and advanced features, these devices are transforming the way we approach diabetes management.
[1] Omnipod 5 product information [2] t:slim X2 product information [3] twiist AID System product information [4] Roche Accu-Chek product information [5] Medtronic MiniMed 770G System product information
- The Omnipod 5, approved for ages 2 and up, is a tubeless insulin pump that integrates with Dexcom G6, G7, and Libre 2 Plus CGMs.
- It offers improved glycemic control, fewer complications, and a better quality of life, operated via a handheld Controller or compatible Samsung/iPhone app.
- The Beta Bionics iLet fully automates 100% of insulin dosing, requiring only user weight and a meal announcement.
- It is compatible with Dexcom G6, G7, and Libre 3 Plus sensors and eliminates the need for basal rates, correction factors, or insulin-to-carb ratios, simplifying diabetes management.
- The t:slim X2, a small tubed pump, integrates with Dexcom CGM for automated basal and bolus insulin delivery.
- It provides auto-bolus once per hour for corrections above 180 mg/dl and customizable basal increments, offering discreet options like smartphone and watch bolusing.
- The twiist AID System, designed for ages 6 and older, automates insulin delivery based on real-time CGM data.
- It offers features like automatic correction boluses, closed loop functionality, and automatic insulin adjustments without calibration.
- The Omnipod Dash is the best tubeless device, while the Medtronic MiniMed 770G System is suitable for ages 2 and up and people with type 1 diabetes.
- The Dana Diabecare IIS is best for portability, and Roche Accu-Chek is best for connectivity.
- The Medtronic MiniMed 630G System, with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and a bolus calculator, has eight basal patterns.
- The Roche Accu-Chek system, consisting of an insulin pump and a CGM, all linked through a Bluetooth connection, supports real-time diabetes management.
- Insulin pumps deliver insulin in basal or bolus delivery and require a prescription to purchase.
- Insurance may cover the costs, but not all, and a healthcare professional should train people on using insulin pumps.
- When the pump begins to run out of insulin, a person will either have to replace the cartridge or refill the reservoir from an insulin vial.
- People will need to find a different area to place the infusion set every 2-3 days, making insulin pumps crucial for anyone with type 1 diabetes, as they help manage blood glucose levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall quality of life.
