Having an artificial pancreas device may be a saving grace for you. But, it isn’t for everyone. Could artificial pancreas devices for type 1 diabetes be the right choice for you?
What It Is
Managing diabetes is difficult. For some people, it’s more challenging than others. But, a couple of years ago the FDA approved artificial pancreases for people who had type 1 diabetes. You have to be 14 years old or older to have one.
Essentially, this device automates management of glucose levels. It doses the right amount of insulin into the body at the right time. And, these devices can be controlled directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Unfortunately, fully automated artificial pancreases are not available. They are still in development. But, what is available is what they call a “hybrid system.”
This particular system is closed-loop. It also has a body sensor attachment. This hybrid system still measures your blood sugar levels every five minutes or so. And, it distributes insulin into the body with an insulin pump.
But, it’s considered manual because you still need to “ok” your insulin doses. And in addition, you need to enter your carb intake and do your own calibration.
The Research
The idea of an artificial pancreas had scientists talking 50 years ago. But, they did not start developing one until 20 years ago. Since then, they introduced the closed-loop system.
Experts say that for right now it is the best way of controlling type 1 diabetes. And, since your blood glucose levels are irregular from eating and exercise, they don’t have the technology to create a system that is fully closed. Yet.
However, that may change with a new clinical study. Researchers will try to prove that a closed-loop algorithm can work on a hybrid system.
Final Thoughts
Even though only hybrid systems are available at the moment, if you have trouble managing your glucose levels, this artificial pancreas device for type 1 diabetes may be the right choice for you. Unfortunately, the units are pricey. But, medical insurance can help buffer the costs if you decide for one.
