DIY Loop
Omnipod GO Patch
Summary
Loop is a DIY (do-it-yourself) system. It takes some work to set up but allows people to think about diabetes less by automating basal insulin delivery based on predicted glucose levels. This system can be used with the Dexcom G6 and the Omnipod or Medtronic pumps. Information about DIY Loop can be found on the Loop or Riley Link websites.
The Omnipod GO is a patch pump that provides a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin in seven rates ranging from 10 to 40 units per day for up to 72 hours. This device is a standalone tubeless, waterproof pod that provides a convenient alternative to traditional insulin delivery methods.
FDA-approved for people 18 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes who need long-acting insulin injections.
*Omnipod GO is expected to be commercially available in the United States in 2024
Components
Controller
Smartphone or smartwatch receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery via an Omnipod or Medtronic pump.
Transmitter
RileyLink allows the pump and sensor to communicate. It is only required if a Medtronic pump is used.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Pump
The system is compatible with Omnipod (left) or Medtronic (right) pumps. Both options can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Patch
Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Reservoir
Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.
Device Details
Overview
This is a DIY (do-it-yourself) system that needs significant setup. It has the most flexibility in settings and device options. It also depends on a third device called a "Riley Link" to communicate between sensor, phone, and pump.
Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Supplies can be covered for Omnipod or Medtronic pumps and Dexcom. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and 0-$300/month. iPhone, app, and Riley link are not covered and must be set up independently. Riley link price range; $135-$165.
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Compatible with Tidepool - a web-based diabetes data management system.
No Options
Data View Options
Yes
Data can be viewed on an iPhone.
No Options
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90, and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pods or pump reservoirs last for up to 72 hrs and work from 40ºF – 104ºF.
72-Hours
Patch can be worn for up to 72 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.
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
Automatic responses. Can set custom blood sugar targets and insulin and carb sensitivities based on type of activity. App automatically responds to blood sugar changes during activity. *Medtronic option is not waterproof. Omnipod option is fully waterproof.
Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Increases or decreases insulin delivery to meet glucose targets. Insulin delivery settings can be aggressive or conservative.
Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Comfort
Low-profile but extra device. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. The RileyLink is an extra device that must be carried.
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.
Easy Insulin Dosing
All settings are completely customizable. Can bolus from phone or smartwatch. Can operate “open-loop” where the user must enact insulin delivery based on recommendations or “closed-loop” where modifications to insulin delivery are automatically delivered.
Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.
Easy to Use
Difficult set-up but easy to use. Software makes most dosing decisions. Requires many parts. Can be difficult to set up.
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to give insulin via watch or phone. Ability to check sugar on phone or watch. Alerts available. *Medtronic pump has tubing. Omnipod is most hideable pump option (no tubes or separate controller needed).
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections.