medtronic inpen device copy
DexcomG6

Summary

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. 

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%

Components

Medtronic InPen : Sensor

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

Medtronic InPen : Cartridge

InPen is compatible with Humalog, Novolog, and Fiasp U-100 3.0 mL insulin cartridges.

Medtronic InPen : Controller

Medtronic InPen : Controller

Inpen connects to a mobile app and displays dosage information directly on a smart mobile device.

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.

Device Details

Overview

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections. 

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
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.

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

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider or family members directly through the InPen app. 

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.

Data View Options

Yes
Data can be viewed on the InPen mobile app with dosage recommendations, glucose readings, and glucose trends.

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. 

Duration and Storage

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.

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

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

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

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

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. 

Comfort

Many components. Have to carry InPen and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body and requires more tape than other sensors. 

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Dosing recommendations. Displays dosing recommendations and reminders for long-acting insulin. 

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Easy to Use

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

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

Fewer Fingersticks

2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor. 

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

Privacy

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

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