With the fast-paced technological innovation, new devices will continue to offer the promise of making diabetes easier.
Already, some innovations are making the once-dreaded finger pokes obsolete. Closed-loop insulin delivery systems are automated and, according to one expert, “the self-driving automobile” of diabetes management.
It’s not easy, or even fun, to keep up-to-date with new technology. We asked two experts what new technologies they thought were most promising for diabetes.
Every day new products are introduced. Therefore, we will keep updating this list frequently.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring Minus Calibration
FreeStyle Libre 2, Abbott’s continuous sugar monitoring system (CGM), now has an iPhone app. This means that the FreeStyle Libre 2 iPhone app can scan your sensor. This is a new way to monitor glucose levels. It replaces traditional blood glucose finger prick checks. Instead, blood glucose levels are measured through a sensor that’s attached to the upper arm. According to the manufacturer, the sensor can now remain in place for up to 14 days.
Dexcom G6, which can send glucose readings via your smartphone or Dexcom Receiver, is another option (until symptoms or expectations do not match readings).
Nearly all people with diabetes are excited about the possibility of removing finger pricks, Dr Ahn explains. He believes this technology will be adopted soon by the type 2 diabetes population.
Closed Loop System = Artificial Pancreas
The Cleveland Clinic’s top 10 medical innovations of 2018 included the hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery device, which was also called the world’s first artificial Pancreas. According to experts at Cleveland Clinic, the system is also called an automated insulin-delivery device. Both experts named the system the “most hopeful” option.
They were referring specifically to the Medtronic Minimed670 G system. Direct communication between the continuous sugar monitoring device, and the insulin pumps produces stable blood glucose. The open loop model, in which patients had to access information from their CGM to determine how many insulins were needed to inject, has been replaced by the new technology.
Technology has evolved even more. Medtronic Minimed780G system is a self-dose basal insulin pump. It has autocorrection dosing.
Smart Pens For Easier Insulin Injection
Dr Ahn was a big fan of smart pens. Medtronics InPen could be one example.
InPen is an insulin pen with Bluetooth technology that sends dose information wirelessly to a mobile phone. The company says it provides support for dose calculation and tracking so that diabetes management is simplified.
There are also single-use disposable and detachable pen needles. The pen injection allows for the user to dial their desired dose in increments of up to half (1/2), units.
Strategy For Making The Most Of New Devices
Chris Riley with Diabetes 365 states that personalized diabetes self-care technology is essential. She says that it is important to determine which system works for you. To do this, talk with a trained diabetes educator or a physician who is knowledgeable about the technology.
The artificial pancreas system may have wonderful features, she said, but may not work for someone who wants insulin control and does not want to give up their need for control. It might work well for someone who is having difficulty controlling their blood sugar and finds it difficult to reach their goals.
You should consider your preferences, as well as your comfort level using technology. “It becomes very personal,” she explains. Determining which technology is best for you and/or your healthcare professional requires a thorough discussion. As new devices become available, this conversation may change.
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