Control IQ with Dexcom
Medtronic Simplera Sync
Summary
This system combines the Tandem t:slim x2 with the Dexcom G6 or G7 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to automatically adjust insulin delivery in response to glucose trends. It's easy to use and allows bolus dosing directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone.
This is a disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems (e.g., MiniMed 780G). Typical wear time is 6 days, plus a 24-hour “grace period.” No routine fingersticks are required when the device is in closed-loop/SmartGuard mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ on the back of the upper arm
MARD of ~9%
Components
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Controller
t:slim pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and administer boluses via the t:connect app.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Pump
Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.
Device Details
Overview
The system automatically adjusts insulin levels from the Tandem t:slim X2 pump based on the Dexcom G6 or G7 readings for more time in range.
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies for Pump and Sensor provided by DME suppliers. Price range; $5-$6,995 to start and $0-$200/month.
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F.
*CGM transmitter is only required for the Dexcom G6 model.
6 Days
Sensors last 6 days, with a 24-hour grace period, and need about 2 hours to warm up. They work between 41°F – 104°F and should be stored between 36°F – 86°F. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 5–15 sensors at a time.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
Moderate dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Exercise Activity. Can manually increase target range to 140-160 mg/dl. Insulin decreases when Control IQ predicts CGM ≤140 mg/dl and increases when ≥ 160 mg/dl within 30 minutes. Autocorrections will still occur. Pump is not waterproof. CGM is waterproof.
Compact and integrated. Reducing bulk; compatibility with daily activities depends on the adhesive and body movement. Water-resistant up to 8 feet (2.4 m) for 30 minutes.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a target blood glucose of 110 mg/dl. Auto-bolus is available once per hour to correct blood sugar above 180 mg/dl.
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce highs and lows.
Comfort
Low profile. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. Small tubed pump with the most infusion sets to pick from.
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows for the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments. Extended bolus available.
SmartGuard technology. When paired with the MiniMed 780G, it automatically adjusts basal and gives correction boluses based on sensor readings. In manual mode, glucose values can guide dosing decisions, but fingersticks are required for confirmation.
Easy to Use
Modern & flexible. Rechargeable and touchscreen pump. Sensor integrated with multiple devices in case you change up what you're using.
All-in-one. Eliminates the need for a separate transmitter, simplifying sensor changes (although more frequent due to the 6-day wear).
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Dexcom's built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.
Small and integrated, but visible on the back of the arm. No separate transmitter reduces the number of visible parts. Alerts and alarms can be adjusted for discretion.