tempo pen device
Screen Shot 2021 12 15 at 3.47.47 PM

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 OmniPod is the only tubeless pump option. A Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) is used to give insulin doses to the pod, which remains attached to the body. This pump is one of few that is completely waterproof. 

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.

Omnipod : Pump

Omnipod : Pump

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

Omnipod : Reservoir

Omnipod : Reservoir

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

Omnipod : Controller

Omnipod : Controller

Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) is used to give insulin doses to the pod.

Device Details

Overview

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

This is a discreet pump option without tubing but will require a controller to dose. 

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 for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy or DME. Price range; 0-$200/month.

Data Monitoring Options

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

Yes
Pump data can be accessed by clinicians on Diasend by Glooko.

Data View Options

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

No Options 

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.

3 Days
Pod can be worn for up to 72 hours and work from 41ºF – 104ºF.

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.

Waterproof. Wear the Pod in the shower, in the pool, or in the ocean. The PDM is not waterproof and must be charged daily. 

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. 

Personalized dosing. Pods can deliver personalized doses of rapid-acting insulin based on the rates programmed into the Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) device. The ability to set zero basal rates is not available. 

Comfort

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

Free of tubing. Pods do not have tubes like traditional insulin pumps, allowing for more freedom of movement.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.

Customizable dosing. Basal and Bolus in 0.05 increments. No interruption in insulin delivery (pods stay on during bathing and swimming). 

Easy to Use

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

Fewer parts. The PDM has button navigation. Pod has fewer parts than tubed pumps.

Fewer Fingersticks

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

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

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

Somewhat discreet. The pod attaches directly to the body with no tubing, but the pod is bigger than an infusion set. Pod does not have vibrate option.