Instinct sensor, made by Abbott, for MiniMed 780G
Syringe and Vial
Summary
This is a CGM sensor made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system. It will work with MiniMed 780G and related systems. Wear time is up to 15 days, and warm-up is ~1 hour. Fingersticks are not required in closed-loop mode.
FDA approved for ages 7+ for use on the upper arm (back of upper arm)
MARD of ~8.5%
Traditional syringe and needle. The most affordable insulin delivery option.
Components
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.
Needles
Classic syringes with plunger used to fill insulin for injection
Long-acting insulin
Basal (long-acting) insulin vial for steady release of insulin that helps control blood sugar between meals, and overnight.
Rapid-acting insulin
Bolus (fast-acting) insulin vial for meal time or high blood sugar correction.
Device Details
Overview
Compact all-in-one sensor sensor, made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system.
Nothing on the body when not in use but very visible when dosing.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Coverage will depend on insurance policies and Medtronic’s rollout plan
$$$$
Syringes are available worldwide in pharmacies or DME without prescription. Price Range: $0-$300/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
No Options
Data View Options
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
No Options
Duration and Storage
15 Days
Sensors last up to 15 days and need about 1 hour to warm up. They work between 50ºF – 113ºF and should be stored between 36ºF – 82ºF. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 2–6 sensors at a time.
28 Days
Open vials can be stored at room temperature (not above 80º F) for up to 28 days. Unopened vials should be stored in the refrigerator (36ºF - 86ºF.)
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
SOME dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT dexterity for insertion
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Long wear & water resistant. Longer wear reduces change burden; sensor design aims for robustness with movement. Water-resistant up to 3 feet (1 m) for 30 minutes (same standard as FreeStyle Libre family).
Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Continuous closed-loop insulin adjustment helps maintain tighter control.
Limited customizability. Requires a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows but can be paired with a CGM for improved blood sugar control.
Comfort
Small & Discreet. Very small, discreet form factor, and minimal bulk.
Many components. Must carry insulin vials and large syringes but nothing attached to the body.
Easy Insulin Dosing
MiniMed 780G closed-loop algorithm: adjusts basal and delivers automatic correction boluses using sensor data. Longer wear (15 days) means fewer interruptions in automated dosing. In manual mode, it still requires fingerstick confirmation before dosing from sensor values.
Requires attention. You have to do the math to figure out your dose. Unable to adjust basal in real-time.
Easy to Use
Longer sensor life and shorter warm-up (~1 hour) help with convenience.
Many steps. Requires effort to figure out doses and deliver insulin every single time you need it.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Small & Customizable. Extremely small (about the size of two stacked pennies), designed to be less noticeable under clothing. Upper arm site only; discreet but still visible with sleeveless clothing. Alerts can be customized on the connected pump for quieter use.
Hideable. Vials and syringes can be hidden when not in use but very visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.