Tandem t:slim X2
Freestyle Libre 2
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+
The FreeStyle Libre 2 is the thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter and requires scanning using a handheld reader or compatible smartphone with an app. This sensor lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system.
FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).
MARD of 9.3%
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.
Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Device Details
Overview
Smallest tubed pump. Modern interface resembles a smartphone but tubing may be visible.
All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/Month.
$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Tandem t:slim mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based Tandem Source web application delivering access to recent patient data.
Yes
After each sensor scan with the mobile app or reader, data is automatically sent to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers via the LibreLinkUp app. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.
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
Freestyle Libre 2 app provides glucose readings and alarms, multiple data views, the ability to share glucose data and real-time alarms with LibreLinkUp, and the ability to connect to a clinician's practice through LibreView.
Duration and Storage
3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F
14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.
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.
Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
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 sensor and small adhesive.
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.
Scanned sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery.
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning are required. Easy self-application.
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.
Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet size but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.