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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%
V-Go is a convenient credit card-size patch pump that adheres to the skin and can be worn for 24 hours. This system is designed to be used with fast-acting insulin for people with type 2 diabetes who require 20, 30, or 40 units of insulin per day. Users can administer two units of insulin with every press of a button on the device. This device is a hybrid between injections and an insulin pump to allow for discreet dosing without the need for programming or multiple injections.
FDA-approved for people 21 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes.
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.
V-Go Patch : Patch
Wearable insulin patches come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied on the abdomen.
Device Details
Overview
One of the larger sensors, may be cumbersome to wear on some parts of the body under clothes.
Convenient, discreet, and simple use.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Sometimes covered. The costs vary depending on individual insurance coverage and how insurance classifies CGMs. Price range $0-$600/month.
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $0-$250/Month.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
CGM data can be linked to a CareLink account and shared with the user's health care team.
No Options
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.
No Options
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.
24-Hours
Patch can be worn for up to 24 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.
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.
Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is water-resistant.
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 requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
Comfort
More tape is needed for Medtronic sensors.
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing, but it must be worn in areas that are easy to reach for insulin dosing.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Simple with few steps. 24-hour bolus range: up to 36 units per 24 hours, doses in 2-unit increments. Preset basal rate of 20, 30, or 40 units per 24 hours.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable sensor transmitter but has the most steps to change sensor.
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 24-hours with insulin administered at the click of a button.
Fewer Fingersticks
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor requires regular meter use.
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. Bolus button can be used discreetly through clothing.