afrezza device
tandem mobi

Summary

Inhalable regular human insulin. Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses.

The Tandem Mobi is the smallest durable automated insulin delivery system available in the U.S. that can be fully controlled by a mobile device. The pump is equipped with an on-pump button for users to bolus insulin directly from the pump if they don’t want to do it from their phone. This system is combined with the Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to automatically adjust insulin delivery in response to glucose trends. 

*Compatiblilty with Dexcom G7 now available 

Components

Afrezza : Inhaler

Afrezza : Inhaler

Small refillable inhaler contains a compartment for powdered insulin containing cartridges.

Afrezza : Cartridge

Afrezza : Cartridge

Cartridges come in three doses: 4, 8, and 12-unit doses. All color coded.

Tandem Mobi : Pump

Tandem Mobi : Pump

Small pump connects tubing to a 5 inch tubing patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Tandem Mobi : Sensor

Tandem Mobi : Sensor

Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.

Tandem Mobi : Controller

Tandem Mobi : Controller

Mobi pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery.

Tandem Mobi : Infusion Set

Tandem Mobi : Infusion Set

An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.

Device Details

Overview

Nothing on the body when not in use. Visible when dosing. 

Tandem Mobi is the smallest insulin delivery system to be fully controlled by a smartphone.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month, depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans. 

$$$$
Pump coverage is not yet available. Sensor is widely covered and provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Sensor price range; $0-$500/month.

Data Monitoring Options

No Options

Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.

Data View Options

No Options

Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).

Duration and Storage

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.

3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F. Pump supports wireless charging.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
LITTLE
 dexterity needed

NO text to speech
YES 
vibration alerts
A LOT 
of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Body free of devices. Does not remain attached to the body.

Waterproof. The pump and CGM are waterproof and can be worn for most exercises.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Very short-acting. Absorbs quickly through the lungs to correct high blood sugar but requires attention to prevent lows. 

Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a set blood glucose target. 

Comfort

Many components. Have to carry multiple cartridges that can be bulky. 

Shorter tubing option. A shorter 5-inch tubing option for comfort on body. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

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. 

Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Manual bolus button is available for quick dosing without a phone. 

Easy to Use

Simple design. Whistle-like device for inhaling insulin.

Easy Dosing. Full control from a smartphone, with the option to manually bolus if needed.

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Hideable. Small, discreet, and portable device that's not as noticeable as injections. 

Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or attached to local area with an armband or adhesive sleeve to be discreet when needed. Dexcom's built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.