simplera device
device syringe insulin

Summary

The Simplera continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is Medtronic’s first disposable, all-in-one CGM. This sensor lasts for 7 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed. 

FDA-approved for people with diabetes ages 2 years and older.

Traditional syringe and needle. The most affordable insulin delivery option. 

Components

Simplera : Sensor

Simplera : 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.

Simplera : Receiver

Simplera : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.

Syringe and Vial : Bolus Insulin

Syringe and Vial : Bolus Insulin

Bolus (fast-acting) insulin vial for meal time or high blood sugar correction.

Syringe and Vial : Basal Insulin

Syringe and Vial : Basal Insulin

Basal (long-acting) insulin vial for steady release of insulin that helps control blood sugar between meals, and overnight.

Syringe and Vial : Needles

Syringe and Vial : Needles

Classic syringes with plunger used to fill insulin for injection

Device Details

Overview

The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.

Nothing on the body when not in use but very visible when dosing. 

Affordability and Access

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. 

$$$$
Syringes are available worldwide in pharmacies or DME without prescription. Price Range: $0-$300/month depending on insurance coverage.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. 

No Options

Data View Options

Yes
Users must download the Simplera app to view and share data. Messages via the simplera app or text messages to notify care partners when glucose is high or low. 

No Options

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

28 Days 
Open vials can be stored at room temperature (not above 80º F) for up to 28 days. Unopened vials should be stored in the refrigerator (36ºF - 86ºF.) 

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
SOME dexterity needed

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
A LOT
 dexterity for insertion

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.

Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

Limited customizability. Requires a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows but can be paired with a CGM for improved blood sugar control. 

Comfort

Smaller size. The sensor is small and flat, and no overtape is required. Simplera’s adhesive is made from an anti-lint material that prevents sweat and water from reaching the sensor.

Many components. Must carry insulin vials and large syringes but nothing attached to the body. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier. The device can be integrated with the Medtronic InPen, which offers a bolus calculator based on carb ratios, meal estimations, the amount of insulin on board, and fixed dosing regimens

Requires attention. You have to do the math to figure out your dose. Unable to adjust basal in real-time.

Easy to Use

No scanning is required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes.

Many steps. Requires effort to figure out doses and deliver insulin every single time you need it.

Fewer Fingersticks

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

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

Discreet. Small, flat shape and ability to see sugar on a watch or phone.

Hideable. Vials and syringes can be hidden when not in use but very visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.