Syringe and Vial
Medtronic InPen
Summary
Traditional syringe and needle. The most affordable insulin delivery option.
The InPen system enhances management with multiple daily injections because it tracks data in real-time and offers personalized dosing recommendations. This system combines the Guardian Connect CGM with smart insulin pens for more time in range.
Components
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.
Controller
Inpen connects to a mobile app and displays dosage information directly on a smart mobile device.
Cartridge
InPen is compatible with Humalog, Novolog, and Fiasp U-100 3.0 mL insulin cartridges.
Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. InPen is compatible with the Medtronic Guardian Connect sensor (left) or the Dexcom G6 sensor (right).
Device Details
Overview
Nothing on the body when not in use but very visible when dosing.
Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Syringes are available worldwide in pharmacies or DME without prescription. Price Range: $0-$300/month depending on insurance coverage.
$$$$
Widely covered. InPen is covered by many insurance companies, typically users pay $50-$60 out-of-pocket copays for the one-year device. Prices range from $0- $549. For those without any insurance coverage, the pen's full price is $549.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider or family members directly through the InPen app.
Data View Options
No Options
Yes
Data can be viewed on the InPen mobile app with dosage recommendations, glucose readings, and glucose trends.
Duration and Storage
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.)
12-month pen 7-day sensor
Sensor lasts for 7 days, insulin pen lasts for up to 12 months with refillable cartridges, transmitter is rechargeable. Sensor can be stored between 36°F - 86°F and pens can be kept at room temperature.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT dexterity for insertion
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly.
Light on body. Pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, sensor is waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
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.
Limited customizability. System integrates the Guardian Connect CGM for high or low alerts but requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Comfort
Many components. Must carry insulin vials and large syringes but nothing attached to the body.
Many components. Have to carry InPen and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body and requires more tape than other sensors.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Requires attention. You have to do the math to figure out your dose. Unable to adjust basal in real-time.
Dosing recommendations. Displays dosing recommendations and reminders for long-acting insulin.
Easy to Use
Many steps. Requires effort to figure out doses and deliver insulin every single time you need it.
Simple design. Replaces regular insulin pen. No additional devices to add on.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Privacy
Hideable. Vials and syringes can be hidden when not in use but very visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.
Hideable. Pens are portable but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable. View recommendations and data on a smartphone.