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Select Device Freestyle Lingo Freestyle Libre 3 Freestyle Libre 2 Freestyle Libre 14 Day Dexcom G7 Dexcom G6 Dexcom Stelo Guardian Connect Medtronic Simplera Eversense Meter Omnipod Omnipod Dash Medtronic 780G Medtronic 630G Tandem t:slim X2 Bigfoot Unity Medtronic InPen Tempo Pen NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo Insulin Pen Afrezza CeQur Simplicity Patch V-Go Patch Omnipod GO Patch Syringe and Vial Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas Control IQ with Dexcom Control IQ with Freestyle Libre Medtronic 780G with Smart Guard Omnipod 5 Tandem Mobi Tidepool Loop twiist DIY Loop Apple Series 6/7/8/9/10/SE (2nd Generation) Garmin vívosmart 5™ Garmin Venu Sq 2 Garmin Venu 3 Garmin vivoactive 5 Garmin Fenix 8 Garmin vivofit jr 3 Garmin Forerunner 165/265/965 Garmin epix (Gen 2) Garmin Enduro 3 Fitbit Ace LTE Fitbit Charge 6 Fitbit Inspire 3 Fitbit Versa/Versa 2/4/Versa Lite Fitbit Sense 2 Fitbit Luxe Google Pixel 2/3 Samsung Galaxy 4/5 Xiaomi Mi Band 9 Oura Ring Whoop 4.0 Withings ScanWatch 2 Withings ScanWatch Lite Pedometer 3D Pedometer
Summary
The FreeStyle Libre 14-day is an all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter that lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. . This sensor is a flash glucose monitor that requires scanning using a compatible smartphone app or a handheld reader.
FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).
MARD of 9.4%
The InPen system enhances management with multiple daily injections because it tracks data in real-time and offers personalized dosing recommendations. This system combines the Guardian Connect CGM with smart insulin pens for more time in range.
Components
Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Medtronic InPen : Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. InPen is compatible with the Medtronic Guardian Connect sensor (left) or the Dexcom G6 sensor (right).
Medtronic InPen : Cartridge
InPen is compatible with Humalog, Novolog, and Fiasp U-100 3.0 mL insulin cartridges.
Medtronic InPen : Controller
Inpen connects to a mobile app and displays dosage information directly on a smart mobile device.
Device Details
Overview
All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter can be worn on the upper arm.
Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
$$$$
Widely covered. InPen is covered by many insurance companies, typically users pay $50-$60 out-of-pocket copays for the one-year device. Prices range from $0- $549. For those without any insurance coverage, the pen's full price is $549.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Automatic data transfer to LibreView each time Freestyle Libre 2 sensor is scanned. LibreView gives clinicians and users relevant glucose reports. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data.
Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider or family members directly through the InPen app.
Data View Options
Yes
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device.
Yes
Data can be viewed on the InPen mobile app with dosage recommendations, glucose readings, and glucose trends.
Duration and Storage
14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.
12-month pen 7-day sensor
Sensor lasts for 7 days, insulin pen lasts for up to 12 months with refillable cartridges, transmitter is rechargeable. Sensor 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
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it.
Light on body. Pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, sensor is waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Alerts are not available. High or low glucose alarms are not available. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Limited customizability. System integrates the Guardian Connect CGM for high or low alerts but requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Comfort
Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.
Many components. Have to carry InPen and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body and requires more tape than other sensors.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.
Dosing recommendations. Displays dosing recommendations and reminders for long-acting insulin.
Easy to Use
Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.
Simple design. Replaces regular insulin pen. No additional devices to add on.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only.
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly.
Hideable. Pens are portable but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable. View recommendations and data on a smartphone.