What is Needed to Start
Pump
Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Controller
t:slim pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and administer boluses via the t:connect app.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Watch and Learn
Introduction to Control-IQ
How to Turn On Control-IQ Technology on the t:slim X2 Insulin Pump
Using the Control IQ System
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies for Pump and Sensor provided by DME suppliers. Price range; $5-$6,995 to start and $0-$200/month.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.
Data View Options
Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 10-day sensor
Sensors last 10 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F.
*CGM transmitter is only required for the Dexcom G6 model.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Low profile. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. Small tubed pump with the most infusion sets to pick from.
Active Lifestyle
Exercise Activity. Can manually increase target range to 140-160 mg/dl. Insulin decreases when Control IQ predicts CGM ≤140 mg/dl and increases when ≥ 160 mg/dl within 30 minutes. Autocorrections will still occur. Pump is not waterproof. CGM is waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a target blood glucose of 110 mg/dl. Auto-bolus is available once per hour to correct blood sugar above 180 mg/dl.
Easy to Use
Modern & flexible. Rechargeable and touchscreen pump. Sensor integrated with multiple devices in case you change up what you're using.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows for the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments. Extended bolus available.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Dexcom's built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.
What the DiabetesWise community is saying about the Control IQ with Dexcom
LaurenF
I switched to the G7 in January and had a rough go at first, but am really loving a few things about it now.
First of all - the footprint is so small! It makes a difference in that I don’t get compression lows when I sleep, or catch my clothes on it as much. Also, the 30-minute warm up period is fantastic.
I’ve been having quite a few sensor failures which is annoying, but Dexcom has (so far) replaced all of them. The other thing I don’t love is the adhesive…it’s different than the G6.
Overall, I’m getting used to it and appreciate the changes in design and warm up period!
Frequently Asked Questions
If my patient starts on the Control IQ system, how can I get support with the product?
Tandem Diabetes Customer Care Team:
(877) 801-6901
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
Dexcom Diabetes Customer Care Team:
1-888-738-3646
Monday - Friday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM PST
Saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM PST
Visit Tandem for Healthcare Providers for more information
Where can I read up to date evidence about Control IQ technology?
"Use of the modified Control-IQ system was safe in 2–5-year-old children with T1D and improved glycemic control."
Safety and Performace of the Tandem t:slim X2 with Control-IQ Automated Insulin Delivery System in Toddlers and Preschoolers 2021
Laya Ekhlaspour, MD. et al.
"Continued real-world use of the t:slim X2 pump with Control-IQ technology showed improvements in psychosocial outcomes and persistent achievement of recommended TIR glycemic outcomes in people with T1D."
Real-World Patient-Reported Outcomes and Glycemic Results with Initiation of Control-IQ Technology 2020
Jordan E. Pinsker, MD. et al.
What type of insulin is compatible with the Tandem: t:slim X2?
Tandem pumps and cartridges are indicated for use with Novolog and Humalog U-100 insulins. The safety and efficacy of other insulins have not been established for use with Tandem pumps.
Visit the Tandem Website for more information.