tempo pen device
medtronic inpen device copy

Summary

The Tempo system enhances management with multiple daily injections because it tracks data in real-time and offers personalized dosing recommendations. This system combines the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM with smart insulin pens for more time in range. 

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. 

Components

Tempo Pen  : Sensor

Tempo Pen : 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.

Tempo Pen  : Controller

Tempo Pen : Controller

Smart button records daily injections and sends them to the compatible app.

Tempo Pen  : Receiver

Tempo Pen : Receiver

Smart button and sensor readings displays dosage information directly on smart mobile device.

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.

Device Details

Overview

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections. 

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Sometimes covered. Tempo is covered by some commercial insurance companies; typically, users pay $35 out-of-pocket copays for the eight-month device. Prices range from $35- $165. For those without any insurance coverage, the button's full price is $165.

$$$$
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.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Data can be easily shared with a healthcare provider through the SMART Visit Report. 

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

Data View Options

Yes
Dose-related data can be viewed on the TempoSmart mobile app.

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

Duration and Storage

8-month button 10-day sensor 
Sensor lasts for 10 days, pen button lasts for up to 8 months. Sensors can be stored between 36°F - 86°F, and pens can be kept at room temperature.

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.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
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, senor is light on the body.

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Limited customizability. System integrates the Dexcom G6/G7 CGM for high or low alerts but requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

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. 

Comfort

Many components. Have to carry pens and pen needles. CGM is attached to the body.

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

Easy Insulin Dosing

Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.

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

Easy to Use

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

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

Fewer Fingersticks

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

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

Privacy

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

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