Omnipod 5 and FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus: A New Era of Choice and Flexibility in Diabetes Management

Omnipod 5 hybrid closed loop system has been granted approval to integrate with the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor in the UK, marking a significant advancement in diabetes management technology. This integration offers individuals living with diabetes an expanded array of options and greater flexibility in regulating their blood glucose levels.

We welcome the announcement from Insulet, the manufacturer of Omnipod 5, and eagerly anticipate further details on when individuals with diabetes can begin benefiting from this innovative pairing.

What sets Omnipod 5 apart?
Omnipod 5 stands out as the premier tubeless hybrid closed loop system, boasting CE marking approval and compatibility with two continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensor brands: Abbott FreeStyle Libre and Dexcom. Designed for individuals living with type 1 diabetes aged two years and older in the UK, Omnipod 5 represents a significant advancement in diabetes care.

Manufactured by Insulet, Omnipod 5 is collaboratively working with the NHS to ensure accessibility for eligible individuals with type 1 diabetes, aligning with recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) regarding the appraisal of hybrid closed loop systems.

Currently, Omnipod 5 interfaces with the Dexcom G6 CGM. However, this recent announcement indicates its forthcoming compatibility with the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor.

When can Omnipod 5 be used with the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor?
Further details regarding the timeline for integrating Omnipod 5 with the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor are pending.

Insulet has secured CE Mark approval for connecting Omnipod 5 with the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor, recognized by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK.

While Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 2 is currently available for individuals living with diabetes in the UK, functioning as a CGM, the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor has yet to launch in the UK.

Abbott intends to unveil additional information regarding the new features of the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Sensor and anticipated launch timelines in the UK in the forthcoming months.

How does Omnipod 5 operate?
Omnipod 5 operates as a tubeless hybrid closed loop system, administering insulin doses automatically.

As a patch pump system, the waterproof insulin-delivering pod adheres directly to the skin, a feature preferred by some users due to its streamlined design and reduced risk of tubing complications.

Central to its functionality is the integrated algorithm, known as 'SmartAdjust' technology, which receives glucose readings and trends every five minutes.

Leveraging this data, Omnipod 5 can forecast an individual's glucose levels 60 minutes ahead, automatically adjusting or pausing insulin delivery based on the user's blood sugar targets.

Insulet emphasizes that this simplifies diabetes management by relieving users of the burden of insulin dosing decisions.

Additionally, the system incorporates an activity feature that can be activated to adjust insulin delivery during physical exercise.

How do I access Omnipod 5?
Omnipod 5 debuted in the US in 2022 and became accessible to individuals with type 1 diabetes aged two years and older in the UK in 2023, soon in other European countries.

In December 2023, NICE issued final appraisal recommendations in England and Wales, potentially offering hybrid closed loop technology as an option for over 100,000 individuals with type 1 diabetes over a planned five-year implementation period.

Omnipod 5 is available through the NHS for eligible individuals, and individuals can consult their local diabetes team to determine its availability.

source: www.diabetes.org.uk

Current available systems: