Afrezza
Tempo Pen
Summary
Inhalable regular human insulin. Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses.
The Tempo system enhances management with multiple daily injections because it tracks data in real-time and offers personalized dosing recommendations. This system combines the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM with smart insulin pens for more time in range.
Components
Inhaler
Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.
Cartridge
Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.
Receiver
Smart button and sensor readings displays dosage information directly on smart mobile device.
Controller
Smart button records daily injections and sends them to the compatible app.
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5 minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Device Details
Overview
Nothing on the body when not in use. Visible when dosing.
Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.
$$$$
Sometimes covered. Tempo is covered by some commercial insurance companies; typically, users pay $35 out-of-pocket copays for the eight-month device. Prices range from $35- $165. For those without any insurance coverage, the button's full price is $165.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider through the SMART Visit Report.
Data View Options
No Options
Yes
Dose-related data can be viewed on the TempoSmart mobile app.
Duration and Storage
10 Days
Open cartridges last up to 10 days. Sealed cartridges may be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F - 46°F until the expiration date.
8-month button 10-day sensor
Sensor lasts for 10 days, pen button lasts for up to 8 months. Sensors can be stored between 36°F - 86°F, and pens can be kept at room temperature.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
LITTLE dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.
Light on body. Pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, senor is light on the body.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows.
Limited customizability. System integrates the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM for high or low alerts but requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Comfort
Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky.
Many components. Have to carry pens and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Less precise but easy dosing. Dosing may be less precise due to the inhaled method of dosing, but color-coded cartridges make dosing easier. Dosing can also be done based on small, medium, or large meals and can be administered 1-2 hours post meals.
Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.
Easy to Use
Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.
Simple design. Replaces regular insulin pen. No additional devices to add on.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections.
Hideable. Pens are portable but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable. View recommendations and data on a smartphone.