Omnipod GO Patch
Afrezza

Summary

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

Inhalable regular human insulin. Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses.

Components

Patch

Patch

Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.

Reservoir

Reservoir

Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.

Inhaler

Inhaler

Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.

Cartridge

Cartridge

Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.

Device Details

Overview

Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.

Nothing on the body when not in use. Visible when dosing. 

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.

$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans. 

Data Monitoring Options

No Options

No Options

Data View Options

No Options

No Options

Duration and Storage

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.

10 Days
Open cartridges last up to 10 days. Sealed cartridges may be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F - 46°F until the expiration date.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
LITTLE
 dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof. 

Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows. 

Comfort

Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.

Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.

Less precise but easy dosing. Dosing may be less precise due to the inhaled method of dosing, but color-coded cartridges make dosing easier. Dosing can also be done based on small, medium, or large meals and can be administered 1-2 hours post meals. 

Easy to Use

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin. 

Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required.

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. 

Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections.