Insulin Pump Tech Advances: Automated, Waterproof, and Connected
Insulin pump technology is advancing rapidly, with new features like automatic adjustments, touchscreens, waterproofing, and Bluetooth connectivity. These devices, worn for 2 to 4 days, mimic the human pancreas, delivering insulin through a small cannula under the skin. Around 350,000 Americans, mostly those with type 1 diabetes, use these pumps for precise dosing, despite their higher cost and training requirements.
Insulin pumps offer more precise dosing than insulin pens, with the ability to deliver an extra dose, or bolus, in addition to the basal rate. Some pumps can communicate with continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for automatic dosage adjustments. Currently, major brands include Medtronic Minimed, Omnipod, and Tandem t:slim X2 and Mobi. By 2025, the market is expected to expand with new devices from Medtronic, Tandem, Insulet, Roche, and Ypsomed.
Insulin pumps, though more expensive and requiring training, provide precise insulin delivery for people with diabetes. With upcoming innovations, the future of insulin pump technology looks promising, offering more features and options for users.
