Syringe and Vial
Omnipod GO Patch
Summary
Traditional syringe and needle. The most affordable insulin delivery option.
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
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.
Patch
Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Reservoir
Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.
Device Details
Overview
Nothing on the body when not in use but very visible when dosing.
Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Syringes are available worldwide in pharmacies or DME without prescription. Price Range: $0-$300/month depending on insurance coverage.
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
No Options
Data View Options
No Options
No Options
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.)
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.
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.
Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and 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 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.
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Requires attention. You have to do the math to figure out your dose. Unable to adjust basal in real-time.
Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.
Easy to Use
Many steps. Requires effort to figure out doses and deliver insulin every single time you need it.
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Hideable. Vials and syringes can be hidden when not in use but very visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections.