V-Go Patch
Afrezza
Summary
V-Go is a convenient credit card-size patch pump that adheres to the skin and can be worn for 24 hours. This system is designed to be used with fast-acting insulin for people with type 2 diabetes who require 20, 30, or 40 units of insulin per day. Users can administer two units of insulin with every press of a button on the device. This device is a hybrid between injections and an insulin pump to allow for discreet dosing without the need for programming or multiple injections.
FDA-approved for people 21 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes.
Inhalable regular human insulin. Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses.
Components
Patch
Wearable insulin patches come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied on the abdomen.
Inhaler
Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.
Cartridge
Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.
Device Details
Overview
Convenient, discreet, and simple use.
Nothing on the body when not in use. Visible when dosing.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $0-$250/Month.
$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
No Options
Data View Options
No Options
No Options
Duration and Storage
24-Hours
Patch can be worn for up to 24 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.
10 Days
Open cartridges last up to 10 days. Sealed cartridges may be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F - 46°F until the expiration date.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
LITTLE dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is water-resistant.
Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows.
Comfort
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing, but it must be worn in areas that are easy to reach for insulin dosing.
Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Simple with few steps. 24-hour bolus range: up to 36 units per 24 hours, doses in 2-unit increments. Preset basal rate of 20, 30, or 40 units per 24 hours.
Less precise but easy dosing. Dosing may be less precise due to the inhaled method of dosing, but color-coded cartridges make dosing easier. Dosing can also be done based on small, medium, or large meals and can be administered 1-2 hours post meals.
Easy to Use
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 24-hours with insulin administered at the click of a button.
Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. Bolus button can be used discreetly through clothing.
Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections.