stelo sensor
tempo pen device

Summary

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% 

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

N/A
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 all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Pricing is to be announced in summer 2024. Price expected to be low to allow for over the counter distribution. 

$$$$
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

To Be Announced 

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

Data View Options

To Be Announced 

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

Duration and Storage

15 Days
Sensors last 15 days. They are purchased over the counter. 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

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. 

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

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.

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

No options. Stelo is intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes who do not require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels. 

Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.

Easy to Use

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

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

Small sensor. Discreet and thin sensor that is easy to hide under clothing. 

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