With advancements in technology, people with diabetes now have access to closed-loop insulin delivery systems, also known as “bionic pancreases”. These systems use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump connected to a control algorithm to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose levels, providing a more accurate and responsive approach to insulin therapy.
Studies have shown that closed-loop insulin delivery systems can significantly improve glucose control by closely mimicking the natural insulin-secreting function of the pancreas. This can help people with diabetes to achieve their blood sugar targets, reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, and improve HbA1c levels.
One of the main benefits of closed-loop insulin delivery systems is that they can ease the burden of managing diabetes for patients. By continuously monitoring glucose levels and adjusting insulin delivery, the system reduces the need for patients to manually check their glucose levels and adjust their insulin dosing. This can be especially helpful for children and older adults who may have difficulty managing their diabetes on their own.
While closed-loop insulin delivery systems are still in development, several companies and research groups have made significant progress in their development. Currently, the systems available are called hybrid closed loop systems. They still require work from the user, but offer a way of managing diabetes that can improve blood glucose levels.
As healthcare professionals at GluCare Health, we are excited about the potential of closed-loop insulin delivery systems and are partnering with Insulet (makers of Omnipod insulin pump) and Dexcom to launch closed-loop insulin delivery systems soon. However, it’s important to note that these systems are not yet widely available and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, closed-loop insulin delivery systems have the potential to revolutionize diabetes care and improve the lives of millions of people with diabetes. If you are interested in this type of therapy, speak with your healthcare provider to understand if it is an option for you.
ORIGINAL VERSION
Revolutionizing Diabetes Care: The Emergence of Closed-Loop Insulin Delivery Systems
As technology advances, new treatment options are becoming available for people with diabetes, including closed-loop insulin delivery systems, also known as “bionic pancreases.” These systems can automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose levels, providing a more accurate and responsive approach to insulin therapy.
A closed-loop insulin delivery system consists of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump, which are connected to a control algorithm. The CGM measures glucose levels in real-time, and the algorithm uses this information to automatically adjust the insulin delivery from the pump. This allows for more precise and personalized insulin dosing, as the system can respond to the patient’s individual needs and adjust insulin delivery accordingly.
Closed-loop insulin delivery systems have been found to be effective in improving glucose control, as they can more closely mimic the natural insulin-secreting function of the pancreas. Studies have shown that these systems can improve HbA1c (a marker of long-term glucose control), reduce the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and help people with diabetes to achieve their blood sugar targets.
