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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 Medtronic Guardian Connect is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that provides real-time glucose data on a compatible smartphone. The system offers optional low and high blood sugar notifications and can be inserted on the abdomen or back of the upper arm.
MARD of 9.6%
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
Guardian Connect : Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. Push buttons applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Guardian Connect : Transmitter
Seashell-shaped with built-in Bluetooth capability that allows it to send glucose data directly to a smartphone every 5 minutes.
Guardian Connect : Receiver
Trends and alerts are viewed directly on a mobile device. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
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
Smart button records daily injections and sends them to the compatible app.
Tempo Pen : Receiver
Smart button and sensor readings displays dosage information directly on smart mobile device.
Device Details
Overview
One of the larger sensors, may be cumbersome to wear on some parts of the body under clothes.
Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Sometimes covered. The costs vary depending on individual insurance coverage and how insurance classifies CGMs. Price range $0-$600/month.
$$$$
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
CGM data can be linked to a CareLink account and shared with the user's health care team.
Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider through the SMART Visit Report.
Data View Options
Yes
The Guardian Connect mobile app allows users to view glucose levels, trends, create customizable alerts, and share blood glucose data with family and friends.
Yes
Dose-related data can be viewed on the TempoSmart mobile app.
Duration and Storage
7 Days
Sensors last 7 days, and transmitter battery needs weekly charging and replacement once a year. Both can be stored between 36°F - 86°F.
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
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Waterproof transmitter when submerged in up to 2.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and must be within 20 feet of a connected 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
Measures sensor glucose 24/7 and sends alerts when a high or low is detected. 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
More tape is needed for Medtronic sensors.
Many components. Have to carry pens and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable sensor transmitter but has the most steps to change sensor.
Simple design. Replaces regular insulin pen. No additional devices to add on.
Fewer Fingersticks
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor requires regular meter use.
Hideable. Pens are portable but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable. View recommendations and data on a smartphone.