Insulin Pen
Medtronic Simplera Sync
Summary
Insulin pens make insulin delivery more convenient than traditional vial/syringe options. Pens are small, portable, and more discrete to use in public.
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
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.
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
Nothing on the body when not in use. Noticeable when dosing.
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Price range; 0-$1260/month depending on insurance coverage.
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
No Options
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
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).
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
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
Moderate dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
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.
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
Limited customizability. Pens require manual dose adjustment and limit the ability to adjust basal insulin throughout the day.
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce highs and lows.
Comfort
Many components. Have to carry pen and pen needles but nothing attached to the body.
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Easy Insulin Dosing
More precise than syringes. Ability to measure doses using a dial, increasing accuracy.
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
Simple but many steps. Attach a new needle, dial the correct dose, inject, and dispose of needle.
All-in-one. Eliminates the need for a separate transmitter, simplifying sensor changes (although more frequent due to the 6-day wear).
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Privacy
Hideable. Pens can be hidden when not in use but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.
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.