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Information and resources on insulin pump therapy

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What are the advantages of insulin pump therapy?

  • Flexibility: There is no long-acting insulin needed — the pump uses short-acting insulin only. The need to eat at specific times is no longer essential.
  • More precise insulin doses: The dose of insulin is matched more closely to your child’s insulin needs. Doses can be given to the 20th or 100th of a unit, depending on which pump you choose.
  • Increased time in target: Automated insulin delivery allows for fewer high and low blood sugar excursions, as the insulin is automatically increased, decreased or paused to help keep the wearer in target.
  • Overall: Insulin pump therapy allows the wearer to eat when they want, as the pump will count carbs and do the rest of the math. You can deliver insulin prior to eating and see fewer high/low blood sugars with automation.
  • Freedom: Insulin pump therapy simplifies life, requiring fewer pokes. There are also options to control/manage your diabetes from a smartphone.
  • Decreased risk for hypoglycemia: Automated pump delivery will predict a low and suspend insulin 30 to 60 minutes prior to a low occurring.

What are the potential disadvantages of insulin pump therapy?

  • Risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This happens because the pump uses rapid-acting insulin, and there are no deposits of long-acting insulin that can act as a buffer if a dose is forgotten or insulin delivery fails. Any interruption in insulin delivery will cause a rise in blood glucose.
  • Ongoing commitment to daily management and blood glucose testing. There will be even more frequent checking of blood glucose to assist in determining the best basal and bolus amounts of insulin to meet food and activity needs.
  • Body image concerns. Some children do not like the idea of having a pump attached to them as a constant reminder of their diabetes.
  • Risk of infection at the insertion site. This can be prevented with good technique and site rotation every two to three days.
  • Cost. The process of going on an insulin pump, including office visits, initial pump cost, monthly supplies and continuous glucose sensor, can be several thousand dollars depending on your insurance. Please contact your insurance company regarding coverage.

Insulin pumps

Tandem

Omnipod®

Medtronic

iLet

Sensors or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)

Dexcom G6

Dexcom G7

Freestyle Libre

Guardian 4 Sensor

Omnipod 5 Frequently Asked Questions

Why is your child still having lows?

Consider the timing of food boluses. Recommendation is 10-15 minutes prior to eating.

What do you do if your child has a low?

Turn on the Activity tab. This increases the target to 150 for safety. You can stay in Activity Mode for 1-24 hours, as needed.

Can I still use the Dexcom Receiver?

No, the Dexcom can only be connected to one medical device. It is required to have it connected to the Dexcom G6 mobile app for sensor alerts/alarms and to change sensors.

Does the system need Wi-Fi to work?

No, Wi-Fi is only needed to send data to the cloud. The system works via Bluetooth.

My child is very active. Could the Omnipod 5 still work for them?

Yes, the Activity tab is helpful to increase the target for activity. Set the mode up to one hour prior to activity for best use and keep it on for as long as there is a risk for lows. You can also suspend the insulin, but you need to go into Manual mode to do this.

How often does the device need to be charged?

Every three days. It is best not to let the battery go below 25 percent. If the battery does die, the basal insulin will still be infused and the automation will still continue, but you will be unable to deliver a bolus.

Omnipod DASH Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if my child has a low?

You need to suspend basal insulin if the low is extended.

Tandem Control IQ Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I learn how to use the pump menus and screens?

The t:simulator™ app is a free virtual demo of the t:slim X2™ insulin pump, available for iOS devices in the Apple App Store or for Android devices in the Google Play Store. In addition to a pump simulation, you can access technical specifications, the t:connect® web application, a glossary of common terms and Quick Reference sheets.

What do I do if my child has a low?

The automation should help decrease the risk for extreme lows. If your child still has breakthrough lows, it is important to continue to treat with 15 grams of fast-acting carbs unless you notice a rebound high. If this happens, try using 10 grams of carbs for initial low treatment. Follow up with a blood glucose check and don’t rely on your Dexcom for the follow-up glucose. Because the Dexcom is delayed, it will still most likely report a low, and you may overtreat.

How do I avoid a kinked cannula?

If you pay close attention to the cannula during insertion, go slowly and do multiple needle/cannula checks to verify that the set is back on the deck. This can help prevent many of the kinked cannulas that occur. Don’t rush.

What is the warranty time frame?

Four years from the day your child started using it.

How often does the battery need to be charged?

The charge lasts about five days. However, it is best to charge it a little every day to avoid the battery dying.

Can my child take off the pump?

The device can be disconnected for up to 30 minutes if needed without suspending insulin (e.g., taking a shower). If disconnection is needed for more than 30 minutes, it is best to tap the “suspend insulin” tab and then tap “resume insulin” when your child puts the device back on. Your child should not go without their insulin pump on for more than two hours at a time. It should only be taken off for showers, swimming or activity.

Resources

800-552-1419 Access MyChart