tempo pen device
Dexcom G7 Software Video

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. 

Dexcom G7 is a low-profile, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter and warms up faster than other CGMs on the market. This sensor lasts for 10 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed. Optional low and high-blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

 

FDA-approved for wear on the back of the upper arm for ages 2 years and older or the upper buttocks for ages 2-17.

MARD of 8.2% 

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.

Dexcom G7 : Sensor

Dexcom G7 : 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.

Dexcom G7 : Receiver

Dexcom G7 : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

Discreet and modern option for people using multiple daily injections.

Small all-in-one sensor/transmitter with a quick warm-up period and can be worn in multiple areas.

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.

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. 

Data Monitoring Options

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

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. 

Data View Options

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

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G7 and Dexcom Clarity apps to view and share data. Both apps provide multiple data views, sharing options, and access through the clinician portal using a code from the user's device. Caregivers can use the Dexcom Follow app to view data. 

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.

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
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 when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.  

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. 

Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Comfort

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

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Dosing recommendations. Displays personalized mealtime dosing recommendations.

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Easy to Use

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

No scanning required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes. 

Fewer Fingersticks

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

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

Privacy

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

Quiet Mode (Vibrate). All system alerts will vibrate when this setting is enabled. Urgent Low Soon and technical alerts will sound if not acknowledged.