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Loop is a DIY (do-it-yourself) system. It takes some work to set up but allows you to think about diabetes less by automating basal insulin delivery based on predicted glucose levels.

*You will need an iPhone to use Loop. Loop also requires a third device called a ‘RileyLink,’ which allows the pump and sensor to talk to each other. Information about RileyLinks can be found at www.loopdocs.org and www.getrileylink.org

Background: A diabetes non-profit called Tidepool decided in 2018 to officially support Loop and shepherd it through the FDA process. Tidepool Loop was cleared by the FDA in January 2023 with plans to launch with Dexcom and other alternate controller-enabled (ACE) pump partners (RileyLink will no longer be necessary). 

2023 Updates from Tidepool:

  • Medtronic and Tidepool have decided to discontinue the development of a Medtronic insulin pump system compatible with Tidepool Loop.
  • As Omnipod 5 is now commercially available, Insulet is devoting all available resources to their Omnipod products, including the global launch and further development of Omnipod 5.
  • Future ACE Pumps that will be commercially compatible with Tidepool Loop will need to be FDA-cleared for use with third-party iAGC controllers.

 

Next Steps

Dexcom G6

Dexcom G6

Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.

Contact

1-888-738 3646

Mon-Fri 6:00am - 5:00pm PST and Sat 8:00am - 2:00pm

Dexcom Website

Medtronic 630G/770G

Medtronic 630G/770G

Call Medtronic and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.

Contact

1-888-350-5440

Mon-Fri, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Medtronic Website

Priorities

Comfort

  • Low profile/low maintenance sensor
  • The RileyLink is an extra device you must carry

    • Active Lifestyle

  • Can set custom blood sugar targets and insulin and carb sensitivities based on type of activity
  • App responds to blood sugar changes during activity automatically
  • Pumps needed for this version of Loop can be fragile and are not waterproof

    • Avoiding Highs and Lows

  • Combo automatically increases or decreases insulin delivery to meet a glucose target that you choose
  • You can make automatic insulin delivery settings as aggressive or as conservative as you want

    • Easy to Use

  • Software makes most dosing decisions for you
  • Requires many parts
  • Can be difficult to set up

    • Easy Insulin Dosing

  • Automatically adjusts insulin to reach targets you set
  • All settings are completely customizable
  • Can bolus from phone or smart watch

    • Fewer Fingersticks

  • Factory-calibrated sensor: fingersticks needed for backup only

    • Privacy

  • Ability to give insulin via watch or phone
  • Ability to check sugar on phone or watch
  • Alerts
  • Pump has tubing

    • Wisdom

    Hear what others who use this device combo have to say

    I miss my T-Slim every day; however, the control, specifically at night, is worth carrying the extra device.

    It's not a perfect system, but it's better than what is available out there currently. Systems will only continue to get better. It does require work, but it's different work than the work I did before I had a closed loop system and it's worth it to me.

    Sometimes it's awkward when a complete stranger asks me about a device in public (especially when they ask if your CGM is a nicotine patch). I'm not always up for the extra attention, but I do try to be patient and view it as a teachable moment for the other person. They're clearly curious, so why not capitalize on that and spread some diabetes awareness? Depending on my mood and my relationship with the person, I either try to be informative or funny.

    Cost

    Dexcom G6

    Dexcom G6

    Sensors

    Transmitter

    Receiver (1 time purchase)

    Glucose Testing Cost Estimate

    Startup $80 to $239

    Monthly $35 to $105

    These prices vary by Insurance. Many insurers support the G6 Dexcom. It may be covered under durable medical goods or a pharmacy benefit.

    Medtronic 630G/770G

    Medtronic 630G/770G

    Pump

    Insulin Cartridges

    Infusion Sets

    Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate

    Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and type 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy, DME, or directly through Medtronic Diabetes. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.

    Questions for your Doctor

    How does a smart system work?

    Automated insulin delivery systems usually have three parts: a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), an insulin pump, and an algorithm, which is the brain. It makes many dosing decisions for you with less button pushing. The system senses your blood sugar level and adjusts insulin delivery automatically.