There is a plethora of options when it comes to managing type 1 diabetes. Some people don’t mind the finger sticks and calculation of insulin dosages, while others prefer to have everything automated for better monitoring and control. As technology changes and research improves, so do the devices used to treat T1D, which can make the process easier and less stressful.

The FDA recently approved the t:slim X2™ Insulin Pump with Basal-IQ™ technology by Tandem Diabetes Care®, Inc., and it is expected to be available in August 2018. This device is an automated insulin delivery system, but it has the ability to work with integrated continuous glucose monitoring (iCGM) systems and can automatically suspend insulin delivery when low glucose levels are predicted. The Basal-IQ technology can predict glucose levels up to 30 minutes in advance and respond accordingly. Once glucose rises, it once again begins administering insulin.

Patients who have the Dexcom G6® CGM will be able to use this device in conjunction with it. During the study, participants had a 31 percent reduction in the amount of time their blood sugar levels were at 70 mg/dL or lower. In addition, they experienced no rebound hyperglycemia thanks to the Basal-IQ technology.

Patients are in control of how they use the system and can turn the Basal-IQ feature on or off depending on their preference. They can also use the touchscreen system to display a CGM chart or simply the Bolus and Option buttons. Plus, they can customize the alerts received for highs and lows or insulin delivery being turned on or off. Furthermore, when integrated with the Dexcom G6 CGM, there are no finger sticks required to calibrate the system or determine dosing at mealtimes thanks to the Basal-IQ technology.

The Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) is excited to see new technology being developed and approved in order to improve quality of life and diabetes management for individuals with T1D. The organization strives to support continued advancement in the field through funding early career scientists conducting peer-reviewed studies. Click to learn more about current projects and provide support.