Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas
Insulin Pen
Summary
The iLet Bionic Pancreas is the first and only commercially-available, automated insulin delivery system that determines 100% of insulin doses without carb counting - offering better results with less work.
The iLet only needs a user's weight to get started. It then learns and adapts to the user's insulin needs based on their meal announcements and CGM data (Dexcom CGM or FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor).
Insulin pens make insulin delivery more convenient than traditional vial/syringe options. Pens are small, portable, and more discrete to use in public.
Components
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Controller
Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones (iOS and Android)
Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm.
Pump
Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Needles
Disposable needle attaches to insulin pen for daily injections.
Long-acting insulin
Basal (long-acting) insulin pen for steady release of insulin that helps control blood sugar between meals, and overnight.
Rapid-acting insulin
Bolus (fast-acting) insulin pen for meal time or high blood sugar correction.
Device Details
Overview
This system requires very little input from the physician or user. It only requires the user to input their weight to get started (glucose targets can be adjusted). Instead of carb counting,* the iLet just needs an estimate of the carbs in your meal – Usual for me, More or Less. The iLet is paired with either a Dexcom CGM or the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor.
*User must be carb aware.
Nothing on the body when not in use. Noticeable when dosing.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
iLet and sensors are widely covered and provided by DME and pharmacy. Sensor price range $0-$550/month. iLet cost dependant on your insurance for DME or Pharmacy.
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Price range; 0-$1260/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
iLet Mobile App provides the ability to pull data from an iLet device to share with the Beta Bionics Cloud.
No Options
Data View Options
Yes
Users can view their iLet data directly on the pump or by using the iLet Mobile App. iLet users can share their data with friends, family, and caregivers through the Bionic Circle App.
No Options
Duration and Storage
3-day pump up to 15 day sensor
Sensors last 10 or 15 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, fully charged iLet will last for 4-5 days, and work between 36°F (2°C) to 86°F (30°C).
28 Days
Can be kept at room temperature (not above 80º F) when in use for 28 days. Unopened insulin pens should be stored in the refrigerator (36ºF - 46ºF).
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
No exercise mode. Pump will continue to increase or decrease insulin dosing in response to changing CGM glucose levels as usual. However, insulin can be stopped at user's discretion. Pump is water resistant for up to 12 feet for 30 minutes.
No attachments to the body. Insulin pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, allowing for a flexible and active lifestyle.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Auto basal and bolus insulin. The iLet makes the corrections for you. If you’re trending high, it will automatically give you more insulin to bring you back in range. If you’re trending low, it will reduce your current insulin dosage.
Limited customizability. Pens require manual dose adjustment and limit the ability to adjust basal insulin throughout the day.
Comfort
Somewhat comfortable. Low maintenance sensor. Larger pump option.
Many components. Have to carry pen and pen needles but nothing attached to the body.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Meal announcement controller. User must be carb aware. The iLet calculates and doses 100% of the insulin throughout the day and night, allowing the user to focus on other things in their lives. Please note: even when you use the "Meal Announcement." your blood glucose levels could rise above 250 mg/dL for a few hours. You'll need to be comfortable letting the iLet regulate your blood glucose.
More precise than syringes. Ability to measure doses using a dial, increasing accuracy.
Easy to Use
Easiest to Use. User weight is the only input required to start using the insulin pump. No carb counting *, correction factors, carb ratios, or pre-set basal rates required.
*User must be carb aware.
Simple but many steps. Attach a new needle, dial the correct dose, inject, and dispose of needle.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone. Minimal pump interaction is required. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed.
Hideable. Pens can be hidden when not in use but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.