Michele D. Huie
TCOYD Newsletter, Vol. 20, 2007

If you use insulin and have been turned off by the tubing and complexity of conventional insulin pumps, you may want to look into Insulet’s OmniPod Insulin Management System.

Based in Bedford, Massachusetts, Insulet’s insulin delivery system was approved by the FDA in January of 2005 for people of all ages. What makes the OmniPod System different than conventional insulin pumps is that the system includes an adhesive insulin “pod” that is worn directly on the skin, and a handheld controller device that wirelessly programs the pod. So no tubing exists connecting insulin reservoir to the infusion site, as is the case with traditional pumps.

How It Works
Users fill the OmniPod with the amount of insulin needed for 48 to 72 hours, up to 200 units. Changing the pod every 2 to 3 days ensures the best possible site performance and insulin potency and absorption. The pod is 1.6” x 2.4” x 0.7” and weighs approximately 1.2 oz with a full reservoir. It is watertight up to 8 feet for 30 minutes. After applying the OmniPod to the infusion site, the user presses start on the handheld device (called the “Personal Diabetes Manager” or “PDM”). The automated cannula insertion system inside the pod inserts the cannula under the skin.

During wear, the user adjusts and manages basal and bolus rates wirelessly using the PDM. The PDM also serves as a glucose meter (using Freestyle test strips), and a record keeper for insulin use, blood sugar, and carbohydrate intake. With an integrated database of over 1000 food items and their nutritional values, plus a bolus calculator, programmable reminders and alerts, and multiple basal settings, the OmniPod System includes all the features of the latest conventional insulin pumps. The PDM takes two AAA batteries and is the size of a personal digital assistant (PDA).

When the insulin supply nears depletion, the user is notified based on an expiration alert setting. When depleted, the user removes the OmniPod, and then fills and applies a new one.

Availability
The list price for the unit is $800 for the OmniPod System Starter Kit, which includes the Personal Diabetes Manager and two OmniPods, and $345 for a box of 10 OmniPods. This pricing enables a person to get started on continuous insulin therapy with a lower upfront cost than conventional insulin pumps. The final cost to the patient user will depend on their specific insurance coverage.

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