What Are the Different Types of Insulin Pumps?

Managing diabetes effectively often requires administering insulin through various devices. From an insulin syringe and needles to an insulin pen and pen needles, there are several ways to get your required dose. However, among these methods, various types of insulin pumps have emerged as a popular choice due to their convenience and efficiency.

If you are considering getting an insulin pump, you should know the various types of insulin pumps available in the market. In this blog, we will delve into the different types of insulin pumps to help you make an informed decision.

What is an Insulin Pump?

An insulin pump is a compact, computerized device roughly the size of a small mobile phone. It is designed to deliver insulin into your body on a pre-set schedule, closely mimicking the natural release of insulin by a healthy pancreas.

The pump can be worn in several ways, including under clothing, in a pocket, on a belt, or attached via an adhesive patch on your stomach or arm.

People with diabetes, whose bodies don’t produce sufficient insulin naturally, often rely on external sources of insulin to manage their blood sugar levels. Insulin pumps offer a steady supply of insulin, reducing the need for frequent needle pricks.

They are a particularly good option for children or anyone who might have difficulty adhering to a strict schedule for insulin injections.

Types of Insulin Pumps

There are two main types of insulin pumps: traditional insulin pumps and patch pumps.

Traditional Insulin Pumps

Traditional insulin pumps, also known as tethered pumps, consist of a chamber within the pump that pushes insulin through a tube to a site on your skin. This site is connected to a flexible plastic tube, or cannula, which delivers the insulin under your skin. Brands like Medtronic (MiniMed™) and Tandem manufacture this type of pump.

Insulin Patch Pumps

Insulin patch pumps streamline the delivery process by combining the insulin delivery chamber and the cannula into a single ‘pod.’ This pod, attached to your skin with an adhesive patch, directly administers insulin into your body without any external tubing.

Controlled wirelessly using a handheld device, patch pumps offer an added level of convenience. One example of a patch pump is the mylife OmniPod. This device consists of a small, lightweight pod that holds and delivers insulin and a personal diabetes manager (PDM) that wirelessly programs the pod to deliver insulin based on personalized settings.

Other Types of Insulin Pumps

In addition to traditional insulin pumps and patch pumps, several other types of insulin pumps are available that can be used in particular situations.

Implanted Insulin Pumps

Implanted insulin pumps are surgically placed under the skin and deliver insulin through a catheter directly into the fatty tissue. These pumps offer the advantage of delivering insulin closer to the liver, leading to a more efficient absorption process.

While not as common as tethered or patch pumps due to surgical implantation, they can be a valuable tool for some individuals.

Closed-Loop Insulin Pumps

Closed-loop insulin pumps, often referred to as an “artificial pancreas,” represent the future of insulin pump technology. These systems combine an insulin pump, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and sophisticated algorithms to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings.

This innovative technology can significantly improve blood glucose control and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, making diabetes management easier and more effective.

Benefits and Risks of Insulin Pumps

Insulin pumps provide numerous advantages, including:

• Consistent, adjustable insulin delivery
• Fewer injections
• Improved privacy
• Better control over blood sugar levels

However, they also come with potential drawbacks. Non-patch styles of traditional pumps may make it difficult to conceal the tubing or pump, and the cost is generally higher than traditional insulin injections. There’s also a risk of the pump breaking or the tubing becoming disconnected.

Moreover, using an insulin pump correctly is crucial. Incorrect setup can lead to inadequate insulin delivery, which can be dangerous and even life-threatening.

Therefore, first-time users should seek guidance from their healthcare provider for setup instructions.

Insulin Pumps at Americare Diabetes

The type of insulin pump that will work best for you depends on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and specific diabetes management needs. Therefore, before choosing an insulin pump, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider, who can help determine the best type of insulin pump for your individual needs.

At Americare Diabetes, we offer a comprehensive range of diabetes supplies and collaborate with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive tailored diabetes solutions. In addition to diabetes supplies like insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and glucose meters, we also provide patients with the support and resources they need to thrive.

Are you ready to take control of your diabetes journey with us? Contact our friendly staff today at (866) 400-9565 to access personalized support, resources, and expert guidance. You can also use our existing patient resupply form to request a resupply of your diabetes management supplies.