DexcomG6
tempo pen device

Summary

This sensor lasts for 10 days and only needs finger sticks as a backup. Dexcom G6 has 3 parts - sensor, transmitter, and receiver. Data can be viewed on a compatible mobile device or a separate receiver. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

 

FDA approved for insertion on the abdomen (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years).

 

MARD of 9%

The Tempo system enhances management with multiple daily injections because it tracks data in real-time and offers personalized dosing recommendations. This system combines the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM with smart insulin pens for more time in range. 

Components

Dexcom G6 : Sensor

Dexcom G6 : 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.

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

Sends readings from sensor to device, clips into sensor. Can be used for 90 days.

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Receives data automatically from the transmitter. Can be substituted by compatible smartphone and smartwatch. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Tempo Pen  : Sensor

Tempo Pen : 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.

Tempo Pen  : Controller

Tempo Pen : Controller

Smart button records daily injections and sends them to the compatible app.

Tempo Pen  : Receiver

Tempo Pen : Receiver

Smart button and sensor readings displays dosage information directly on smart mobile device.

Device Details

Overview

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Price range; $0-$500/month.

$$$$
Sometimes covered. Tempo is covered by some commercial insurance companies; typically, users pay $35 out-of-pocket copays for the eight-month device. Prices range from $35- $165. For those without any insurance coverage, the button's full price is $165.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.

Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider through the SMART Visit Report. 

Data View Options

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom Clarity apps to view and share data. Both apps provide multiple data views, sharing options, and access through the clinician portal using a code from the user's device. Caregivers can use the Dexcom Follow app to view data. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data. 

Yes
Dose-related data can be viewed on the TempoSmart mobile app.

Duration and Storage

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days, and transmitters last 90 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors and 1 transmitter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

8-month button 10-day sensor 
Sensor lasts for 10 days, pen button lasts for up to 8 months. Sensors can be stored between 36°F - 86°F, and pens can be kept at room temperature.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.  

Light on body. Pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, senor is light on the body.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

Limited customizability. System integrates the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM for high or low alerts but requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

Comfort

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Many components. Have to carry pens and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.

Easy to Use

Flexible pump integration. Can be paired with multiple different types of pumps which gives flexibility for how to use the data.

Simple design. Replaces regular insulin pen. No additional devices to add on. 

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only. 

Privacy

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.

Hideable. Pens are portable but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable. View recommendations and data on a smartphone.