Tandem t:slim X2
Dexcom Stelo
Summary
The Tandem t:slim X2 is rechargeable, has a touch screen, and can be updated on a home computer.
*Control IQ+ Technology now available for ages 2+
Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter. This sensor lasts for up to 15 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.
*Recently FDA approved for people 18 years or older with type 2 diabetes. Expected availability is summer 2024.
MARD of 9.2%
Components
Controller
Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Cartridge
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump.
Pump
Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Device Details
Overview
Smallest tubed pump. Modern interface resembles a smartphone but tubing may be visible.
Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/Month.
$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Pricing is to be announced in summer 2024. Price expected to be low to allow for over the counter distribution.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Tandem t:slim mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based Tandem Source web application delivering access to recent patient data.
To Be Announced
Data View Options
Yes
Data is viewed on the pump's main screen and/or on a smartphone with the Tandem t:slim mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
To Be Announced
Duration and Storage
3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F
15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text-to-speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of 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 not waterproof.
Waterproof when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device. This device is intended to help people with non-insulin requiring type 2 diabetes better understand their blood sugar numbers.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Very limited alerts. This device does not provide alarms and alerts for high, low, and rise/fall rates. This device is intended to track and understand the effects of food on blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes.
Comfort
Smallest 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 and low maintenance sensor application.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Offers smallest increments of basal insulin delivery. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments.
No options. Stelo is intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes who do not require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery.
Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Discreet. Smallest tubed pump with visible tubing. Ability to bolus directly on a compatible smartphone. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Touchscreen of pump looks like normal tech device.
Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing.