Device Finder - Dexcom G6 vs Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas

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Summary

This sensor lasts for 10 days and only needs finger sticks as a backup. Dexcom G6 has 3 parts - sensor, transmitter, and receiver. Data can be viewed on a compatible mobile device or a separate receiver. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system.

FDA approved for insertion on the abdomen (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years).

MARD of 9%

The iLet Bionic Pancreas is the first and only commercially-available, automated insulin delivery system that determines 100% of insulin doses without carb counting - offering better results with less work.

The iLet only needs a user's weight to get started. It then learns and adapts to the user's insulin needs based on their meal announcements and CGM data (Dexcom CGM or FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor).

Components

Dexcom G6 : 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 G6 : Transmitter

Sends readings from sensor to device, clips into sensor. Can be used for 90 days.

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Receives data automatically from the transmitter. Can be substituted by compatible smartphone and smartwatch. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Pump

Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Sensor

Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm.

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Controller

Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones (iOS and Android)

Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas : Infusion Set

An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.

Device Details

Overview

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

This system requires very little input from the physician or user. It only requires the user to input their weight to get started (glucose targets can be adjusted). Instead of carb counting,* the iLet just needs an estimate of the carbs in your meal – Usual for me, More or Less. The iLet is paired with either a Dexcom CGM or the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor.

*User must be carb aware.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Price range; $0-$500/month.

$$$$
iLet and sensors are widely covered and provided by DME and pharmacy. Sensor price range $0-$550/month. iLet cost dependant on your insurance for DME or Pharmacy.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.

Yes
iLet Mobile App provides the ability to pull data from an iLet device to share with the Beta Bionics Cloud.

Data View Options

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G6 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. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data.

Yes
Users can view their iLet data directly on the pump or by using the iLet Mobile App. iLet users can share their data with friends, family, and caregivers through the Bionic Circle App.

Duration and Storage

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days, and transmitters last 90 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors and 1 transmitter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

3-day pump up to 15 day sensor
Sensors last 10 or 15 days and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF – 108ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, fully charged iLet will last for 4-5 days, and work between 36°F (2°C) to 86°F (30°C).

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

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

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.

No exercise mode. Pump will continue to increase or decrease insulin dosing in response to changing CGM glucose levels as usual. However, insulin can be stopped at user's discretion. Pump is water resistant for up to 12 feet for 30 minutes.

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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.

Auto basal and bolus insulin. The iLet makes the corrections for you. If you’re trending high, it will automatically give you more insulin to bring you back in range. If you’re trending low, it will reduce your current insulin dosage.

Comfort

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Somewhat comfortable. Low maintenance sensor. Larger pump option.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Meal announcement controller. User must be carb aware. The iLet calculates and doses 100% of the insulin throughout the day and night, allowing the user to focus on other things in their lives. Please note: even when you use the "Meal Announcement." your blood glucose levels could rise above 250 mg/dL for a few hours. You'll need to be comfortable letting the iLet regulate your blood glucose.

Easy to Use

Flexible pump integration. Can be paired with multiple different types of pumps which gives flexibility for how to use the data.

Easiest to Use. User weight is the only input required to start using the insulin pump. No carb counting *, correction factors, carb ratios, or pre-set basal rates required.