MiniMed Flex
Medtronic Simplera Sync
Summary
The MiniMed Flex is a tubed insulin pump system designed to automate insulin delivery using SmartGuard™ technology and the Simplera Sync sensor. Boluses can be delivered directly through the MiniMed app, while customizable settings help support glucose management throughout the day.
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
Controller
Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body. Optional Medtronic Extended™ Infusion set (up to 7-day wear) available.
Reservoir
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir or cartridge that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump. ExtendedTM Reservoir MMT-342, 10PK. 3.0 ml (300 units).
Pump
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
A tubed insulin pump system that works with the Simplera Sync sensor and SmartGuard™ technology to automatically adjust insulin delivery.
Disposable, all-in-one CGM sensor integrated with Medtronic’s pump systems
Affordability and Access
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and type 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy or DME. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.
$$$$
Coverage depends on region and insurance; supplied via DME or specialty pharmacy.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Pump data can be viewed by your healthcare team on the CareLink therapy management software.
Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.
Data View Options
Yes
Data is viewed on the phone app.
Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device.
Duration and Storage
2-3 Days. Infusion site and pump reservoir last up to 72 hours and works between 41ºF - 93ºF.
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 mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is waterproof for up to 8 feet for 105 minutes.
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
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
SmartGuard closed-loop. Pump adjustments use sensor data continuously to reduce highs and lows.
Comfort
Small tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from.
Low profile. No overtape needed and one-hand insertion.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Basal and bolus in 0.05 increments.
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
Pump has a rechargeable battery that takes 30 minutes to charge, and lasts about a week.
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 fingersticks are still required.
Calibration is optional. Perfect if you like having that choice.
Privacy
Discrete. The MiniMed Flex is small with visible tubing. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discrete when needed.
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.