Omnipod GO device image
tidepool loop device

Summary

The Omnipod GO is a patch pump that provides a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin in seven rates ranging from 10 to 40 units per day for up to 72 hours. This device is a standalone tubeless, waterproof pod that provides a convenient alternative to traditional insulin delivery methods.

FDA-approved for people 18 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes who need long-acting insulin injections.

*Omnipod GO is expected to be commercially available in the United States in 2024

Tidepool Loop is the first fully interoperable automated insulin dosing app that originated as a patient-led initiative.

Background: A diabetes non-profit called Tidepool decided in 2018 to officially support Loop and shepherd it through the FDA process. Tidepool Loop was cleared by the FDA in January 2023 with plans to launch with Dexcom and other alternate controller-enabled (ACE) pump partners (RileyLink will no longer be necessary).

2023 Updates from Tidepool:

  • Medtronic and Tidepool have decided to discontinue the development of a Medtronic insulin pump system compatible with Tidepool Loop.
  • As Omnipod 5 is now commercially available, Insulet is devoting all available resources to their Omnipod products, including the global launch and further development of Omnipod 5.
  • Future ACE Pumps that will be commercially compatible with Tidepool Loop will need to be FDA-cleared for use with third-party interoperable automated glycemic (iAGC) controllers.

Components

Omnipod GO Patch : Patch

Omnipod GO Patch : Patch

Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.

Omnipod GO Patch : Reservoir

Omnipod GO Patch : Reservoir

Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.

Tidepool Loop  : Controller

Tidepool Loop : Controller

Smartphone or smartwatch receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery via insulin pump.

Device Details

Overview

Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.

Tidepool Loop is the first fully interoperable automated insulin dosing app that originated as a patient-led initiative.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.

$$$$
Pump and CGM supply information is not yet available. iPhone is not covered and must be set up independently.

Data Monitoring Options

No Options

Yes
Compatible with Tidepool - a web-based diabetes data management system. 

Data View Options

No Options

Yes
Data can be viewed on an iPhone. 

Duration and Storage

72-Hours 
Patch can be worn for up to 72 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.

Pump and CGM information not yet available. 

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof. 

Automatic responses. Can set custom blood sugar targets and insulin and carb sensitivities based on type of activity. App automatically responds to blood sugar changes during activity.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

Automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Increases or decreases insulin delivery to meet glucose targets. Insulin delivery settings can be aggressive or conservative.

Comfort

Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.

Low-profile mobile app. Dosing and other adjustments can be done directly on the mobile app. 

Easy Insulin Dosing

Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.

Customizable. Can bolus from phone or smartwatch and all settings are expected to be customizable. More information on modifications to insulin delivery will be available soon. 

Easy to Use

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin. 

Easy dosing. Software makes most dosing decisions easy to do on the fly.

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required.

Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. 

Discreet. Ability to give insulin via watch or phone. Ability to check sugar on phone or watch. Alerts available.