What is Needed to Start
Rapid-acting insulin
Bolus (fast-acting) insulin pen for meal time or high blood sugar correction.
Long-acting insulin
Basal (long-acting) insulin pen for steady release of insulin that helps control blood sugar between meals, and overnight.
Needles
Disposable needle attaches to insulin pen for daily injections.
Watch and Learn
How to Store Insulin Pens
How and When to Rotate Injection Sites
How to Inject with an Insulin Pen
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Price range; 0-$1260/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Data View Options
No Options
Duration and Storage
28 Days
Can be kept at room temperature (not above 80º F) when in use for 28 days. Unopened insulin pens should be stored in the refrigerator (36ºF - 46ºF).
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Many components. Have to carry pen and pen needles but nothing attached to the body.
Active Lifestyle
No attachments to the body. Insulin pens are easy to use and do not remain attached to the body, allowing for a flexible and active lifestyle.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Limited customizability. Pens require manual dose adjustment and limit the ability to adjust basal insulin throughout the day.
Easy to Use
Simple but many steps. Attach a new needle, dial the correct dose, inject, and dispose of needle.
Easy Insulin Dosing
More precise than syringes. Ability to measure doses using a dial, increasing accuracy.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Hideable. Pens can be hidden when not in use but visible when in use. Frequent injections are unavoidable.
Related Device Combos
Meter & Injections
Meter & Pen
This combo is simple, reliable, and incognito.
Sensor & Injections
Dexcom G6 & Pen
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Dexcom G6 comes factory-calibrated and requires no finger stick. Some pens have the ability to track insulin doses on a smart phone.
Sensor & Injections
Freestyle Libre 2 & Pen
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Freestyle Libre is the thinnest sensor. Some pens have the ability to track insulin doses on a smartphone.