The t:slim X2 insulin pump is manufactured by Tandem Diabetes Care. It is currently rated for use in individuals over the age of 6. It is not recommended for individuals who require less than 10 units of insulin per day or who weigh less than 55 pounds (25kg).
Here are twelve of the key features that we have found:
1. Smaller than other insulin pumps
The t:slim X2 insulin pump is 3.1 x 2.0 x 0.6 inches (in) and weighs 3.95 ounces (112g). This is 38% smaller than most other insulin pumps on the North American market.
2. Holds up to 300 units of insulin
Despite being smaller than most pumps, the t:slim X2 still holds up to 300 units of insulin. This is great for teens and those adults with type 1 diabetes who use larger volumes of insulin.
3. Has a rechargeable battery
The t:slim X2 insulin pump is the first rechargeable insulin pump. It is recharged when you plug a USB cable into a regular AC current.
According to the Tandem website, “a single battery charge on a t:slim X2 pump can last for up to seven days during normal use without CGM and up to five days with CGM.” They recommend that you charge your pump for 10-15 minutes each day or until it is fully charged. Many users do this by plugging in their pump while they are in the shower or driving to work.
4. Remote software upgrading capability
When Tandem updates the software in its insulin pumps, you are able to upgrade the t:slim X2 insulin pump without having to purchase a brand new device.
5. Continuous Glucose Monitor integration
The t:slim X2 has the ability to work with the Dexcom G7 or the Libre2 Plus to monitor blood sugar readings and adjust your insulin accordingly. This feature is optional but can be of value to those individuals who already enjoy using a continuous glucose monitor.
*If you live in Canada, the tSlim:X2 is integrated with the Dexcom G6 only.
6. Option to use Control IQ or Basal IQ when used with CGM
Control IQ and Basal IQ are predictive technologies, which helps manage insulin delivery. Control IQ adjusts insulin delivery to help prevent highs andlows. Basal IQ, on the other hand, is a predictive low-glucose suspend technology that helps to reduce the frequency and duration of lows.
You can read about these two features in detail in the article below.
Control or Basal iq?
7. Shatterproof, touchscreen
This insulin pump looks like a cellphone and even has a touchscreen so there are no buttons to wear out. It is made of shatter-resistant glass and a light, ultra‑strong. The watertight case is certified for use in 3 feet for 30 minutes (IPX7).
8. Variety of alerts
The t:slim X2 comes with a variety of alerts including:
- Site change reminders
- High and low blood glucose alerts, and
- Missed meal bolus alerts
9. Various ways to bolus your meals
With the t:slim X2 insulin pump, you have the option of bolusing your meals by the grams of carbohydrates. You can also simply input a set amount of insulin.
If you desire, you can use a quick bolus. This means that you can deliver a bolus by simply pressing a button. This feature allows you to deliver a bolus by following beep/vibration commands without navigating through or viewing the pump screen.
Finally, the t:slim X2 gives you the option of using their bolus calculator which allows you to enter multiple carb values and let the pump do the math.
10. Customize your settings
Insulin delivery is personal and the t:slim X2 allows you to set up to six personalized delivery profiles, with up to 16 different time segments.
11. Feature lock
This safety feature allows you to set a lock to stop unintentional bolusing or setting changes. This can be of benefit to parents of children with diabetes to ensure that they don’t tamper with the pump settings when they are away from their parents.
12. Mobile bolus
In the summer of 2022, t:slim X2 users in the US will be able to use the Mobile bolus feature with their iPhone 12 (iOS 14) and Samsung Galaxy S20 (OS 11).
If you are interested in learning more about the t:slim X2 insulin pump, contact your local representative or Tandem Diabetes Care.
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