tandem device v3
device syringe insulin

Summary

The Tandem t:slim X2 is rechargeable, has a touch screen, and can be updated on a home computer.

*Control IQ+ Technology now available for ages 2+ 

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

Components

Tandem t:slim X2 : Pump

Tandem t:slim X2 : Pump

Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Cartridge

Tandem t:slim X2 : Cartridge

Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Infusion Set

Tandem t:slim X2 : Infusion Set

An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Controller

Tandem t:slim X2 : Controller

Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.

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

Smallest tubed pump. Modern interface resembles a smartphone but tubing may be visible. 

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

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/Month.

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

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Tandem t:slim mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based Tandem Source web application delivering access to recent patient data.

No Options

Data View Options

Yes
Data is viewed on the pump's main screen and/or on a smartphone with the Tandem t:slim mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).

No Options

Duration and Storage

3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F

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

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

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is not waterproof. 

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.

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

Smallest tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from. 

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

Easy Insulin Dosing

Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Offers smallest increments of basal insulin delivery. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments.

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

Easy to Use

Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery. 

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

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

Discreet. Smallest tubed pump with visible tubing. Ability to bolus directly on a compatible smartphone. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Touchscreen of pump looks like normal tech device.

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