v go device
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Summary

V-Go is a convenient credit card-size patch pump that adheres to the skin and can be worn for 24 hours. This system is designed to be used with fast-acting insulin for people with type 2 diabetes who require 20, 30, or 40 units of insulin per day. Users can administer two units of insulin with every press of a button on the device. This device is a hybrid between injections and an insulin pump to allow for discreet dosing without the need for programming or multiple injections. 

FDA-approved for people 21 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes.

NovoPen 6 & NovoPen Echo Plus provides the smart addition of a personal injection log. Both pens are compatible with Novo Nordisk insulins in Penfill 3 ml cartridges and work with NovoFine single-use disposable needles. You can transfer your insulin dosing information from your smart pen to your device using the app. 

Components

V-Go Patch : Patch

V-Go Patch : Patch

Wearable insulin patches come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied on the abdomen.

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : Sensor

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : 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.

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : Controller

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : Controller

Smart pen records daily injections and sends them to the compatible app by tapping the device with a compatible smartphone.

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : Receiver

NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo : Receiver

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

Device Details

Overview

Convenient, discreet, and simple use. 

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $0-$250/Month.

$$$$
Sometimes covered. NovoPens are covered by some commercial insurance companies; typically, users pay $21 out-of-pocket copays for the eight-month device. Prices range from $0- $78. For those without any insurance coverage, a single pen price is $78.

Data Monitoring Options

No Options

Yes
Hold the dose memory of the pen straight against the Near Field Communication (NFC) spot on your device. Wait while your injection details are automatically transferred to a compatible app on your device. Compatible with multiple data monitoring platforms, including Glooko, MySugr, and Dose Check

Data View Options

No Options

Yes
Dose-related data can be viewed on the NovoPen 6 & NovoPen Echo apps. 

Duration and Storage

24-Hours 
Patch can be worn for up to 24 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.

28-day pen (Compatible with 10-day or 14-day sensor)
Sensor lasts for 10-14 days depending on the brand, insulin pen lasts for up to 28 days. Pen has 800-injection dose memory and a five-year battery life. Sensor works between 50ºF - 113ºF and pens can be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days. 

 

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

Limited Adjustability. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is water-resistant. 

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

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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

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

Comfort

Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing, but it must be worn in areas that are easy to reach for insulin dosing. 

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

Easy Insulin Dosing

Simple with few steps. 24-hour bolus range: up to 36 units per 24 hours, doses in 2-unit increments. Preset basal rate of 20, 30, or 40 units per 24 hours.

NovoPen 6The maximum dose is 60 units, and doses increase in 1-unit increments. NovoPen Echo PlusThe maximum dose is 30 units, and doses increase in 0.5-unit increments

Easy to Use

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 24-hours with insulin administered at the click of a button. 

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

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent finger-sticks are required.

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

Privacy

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections. Bolus button can be used discreetly through clothing.

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