Tandem t:slim X2
DIY Loop
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+
Loop is a DIY (do-it-yourself) system. It takes some work to set up but allows people to think about diabetes less by automating basal insulin delivery based on predicted glucose levels. This system can be used with the Dexcom G6 and the Omnipod or Medtronic pumps. Information about DIY Loop can be found on the Loop or Riley Link websites.
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.
Controller
Smartphone or smartwatch receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery via an Omnipod or Medtronic pump.
Transmitter
RileyLink allows the pump and sensor to communicate. It is only required if a Medtronic pump is used.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Pump
The system is compatible with Omnipod (left) or Medtronic (right) pumps. Both options can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Device Details
Overview
Smallest tubed pump. Modern interface resembles a smartphone but tubing may be visible.
This is a DIY (do-it-yourself) system that needs significant setup. It has the most flexibility in settings and device options. It also depends on a third device called a "Riley Link" to communicate between sensor, phone, and pump.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/Month.
$$$$
Supplies can be covered for Omnipod or Medtronic pumps and Dexcom. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and 0-$300/month. iPhone, app, and Riley link are not covered and must be set up independently. Riley link price range; $135-$165.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Tandem t:slim mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based Tandem Source web application delivering access to recent patient data.
Yes
Compatible with Tidepool - a web-based diabetes data management system.
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).
Yes
Data can be viewed on an iPhone.
Duration and Storage
3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90, and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pods or pump reservoirs last for up to 72 hrs and work from 40ºF – 104ºF.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
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.
Automatic responses. Can set custom blood sugar targets and insulin and carb sensitivities based on type of activity. App automatically responds to blood sugar changes during activity. *Medtronic option is not waterproof. Omnipod option is fully waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Increases or decreases insulin delivery to meet glucose targets. Insulin delivery settings can be aggressive or conservative.
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 but extra device. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. The RileyLink is an extra device that must be carried.
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.
All settings are completely customizable. Can bolus from phone or smartwatch. Can operate “open-loop” where the user must enact insulin delivery based on recommendations or “closed-loop” where modifications to insulin delivery are automatically delivered.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery.
Difficult set-up but easy to use. Software makes most dosing decisions. Requires many parts. Can be difficult to set up.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks 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.
Discreet. Ability to give insulin via watch or phone. Ability to check sugar on phone or watch. Alerts available. *Medtronic pump has tubing. Omnipod is most hideable pump option (no tubes or separate controller needed).