V-Go Patch
Dexcom Stelo
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.
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
Patch
Wearable insulin patches come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied on the abdomen.
Device Details
Overview
Convenient, discreet, and simple use.
Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $0-$250/Month.
$$$$
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
No Options
To Be Announced
Data View Options
No Options
To Be Announced
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.
15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO 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
Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is water-resistant.
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
Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
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
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing, but it must be worn in areas that are easy to reach for insulin dosing.
Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.
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.
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
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 24-hours with insulin administered at the click of a button.
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
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. Bolus button can be used discreetly through clothing.
Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing.