Device Finder - Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas vs Medtronic Simplera

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Summary

The iLet Bionic Pancreas is the first and only commercially-available, automated insulin delivery system that determines 100% of insulin doses without carb counting - offering better results with less work.

The iLet only needs a user's weight to get started. It then learns and adapts to the user's insulin needs based on their meal announcements and CGM data (Dexcom CGM or FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor).

The Simplera continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is Medtronic’s first disposable, all-in-one CGM. This sensor lasts for 7 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.

FDA-approved for people with diabetes ages 2 years and older.

Components

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Pump

Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Sensor

Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm.

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Controller

Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones (iOS and Android)

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Infusion Set

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

Simplera : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5-minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Simplera : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

This system requires very little input from the physician or user. It only requires the user to input their weight to get started (glucose targets can be adjusted). Instead of carb counting,* the iLet just needs an estimate of the carbs in your meal – Usual for me, More or Less. The iLet is paired with either a Dexcom CGM or the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor.

*User must be carb aware.

The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.

Affordability and Access

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iLet and sensors are widely covered and provided by DME and pharmacy. Sensor price range $0-$550/month. iLet cost dependant on your insurance for DME or Pharmacy.

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No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
iLet Mobile App provides the ability to pull data from an iLet device to share with the Beta Bionics Cloud.

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians.

Data View Options

Yes
Users can view their iLet data directly on the pump or by using the iLet Mobile App. iLet users can share their data with friends, family, and caregivers through the Bionic Circle App.

Yes
Users must download the Simplera app to view and share data. Messages via the simplera app or text messages to notify care partners when glucose is high or low.

Duration and Storage

3-day pump up to 15 day sensor
Sensors last 10 or 15 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, fully charged iLet will last for 4-5 days, and work between 36°F (2°C) to 86°F (30°C).

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days.

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
SOME dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

No exercise mode. Pump will continue to increase or decrease insulin dosing in response to changing CGM glucose levels as usual. However, insulin can be stopped at user's discretion. Pump is water resistant for up to 12 feet for 30 minutes.

Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Auto basal and bolus insulin. The iLet makes the corrections for you. If you’re trending high, it will automatically give you more insulin to bring you back in range. If you’re trending low, it will reduce your current insulin dosage.

Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.

Comfort

Somewhat comfortable. Low maintenance sensor. Larger pump option.

Smaller size. The sensor is small and flat, and no overtape is required. Simplera’s adhesive is made from an anti-lint material that prevents sweat and water from reaching the sensor.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Meal announcement controller. User must be carb aware. The iLet calculates and doses 100% of the insulin throughout the day and night, allowing the user to focus on other things in their lives. Please note: even when you use the "Meal Announcement." your blood glucose levels could rise above 250 mg/dL for a few hours. You'll need to be comfortable letting the iLet regulate your blood glucose.

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier. The device can be integrated with the Medtronic InPen, which offers a bolus calculator based on carb ratios, meal estimations, the amount of insulin on board, and fixed dosing regimens

Easy to Use

Easiest to Use. User weight is the only input required to start using the insulin pump. No carb counting *, correction factors, carb ratios, or pre-set basal rates required.