Comprehensive Omnipod 5 Insulin Pump Review and Resources
Discover the Unique Advantages & Possible Limitations of the Omnipod 5
Considering the Omnipod 5 Insulin Pump?
The Omnipod 5 is the first tubeless, automated insulin delivery system that integrates with continuous glucose monitoring to help simplify diabetes management. It offers flexibility, discretion, and advanced technology designed to reduce the daily burden of care. Like any device, it comes with unique benefits as well as possible drawbacks. In this guide, we’ll look at both so you can decide if the Omnipod 5 is the right choice for your lifestyle.
Advantages
Advantages of The Omnipod 5
- Reduced up-front costs
- Processed through pharmacy benefits
- Discrete pump size
- No tubing (minimizes wasted insulin, no tangling/snagging, less awkward, no siphon effects)
- No disconnecting/reconnecting means no missed/lost insulin
- Simple, automated cannula insertion (minimizes discomfort, reduces “human errors”, creates more site options)
- Forced pod change reduces chances of lipodystrophy & absorption problems
- Pump is fully watertight
- Adjustable target glucose
- Links w/Dexcom & Libre CGMs
- Programmable via phone app or dedicated PDM
- Algorithm adjusts boluses based on glucose rise/fall
- Large color touchscreen
- Only 2 parts; simple for travel
- Pump requires no charging or batteries to replace
Disadvantages
Disadvantages of The Omnipod 5
- Cannot enter boluses or make setting changes without phone/programmer
- Algorithm concerns:
- 3-7 day “adaption” process
- Cannot set target below 110
- Establishes a flat background basal rate (programmed basals not used)
- Adapts based on recent insulin usage
- Cannot use advanced features (temp basal, extended bolus) when automation is active
- History lost with replacement of phone or programmer
- Automation must be re-enabledfollowing each pod change
- Programmer must be charged daily
- “Unlock” required for all programming
- No “follow” option for caregivers
- Only one cannula orientation/length
- Max reservoir volume 200u; minimum fill amount 80u
- Pod stops working after 72 hours (plus grace period)
- Handheld will not calculate bolus if BG < 50
- Dislodged/clogged cannula or pod error requires complete pod
replacement - Pod does not have a vibrate option
- Must suspend when changing basal settings
- Temp basal limited to 12 hours max.
Who is a good fit for the Omnipod 5 ?
Omnipod 5 is good for these users:
- Users who want improved control with a “hands-off” simplified approach
- Users who need the simplest insulin fill and insertion process possible
- Potentially users with needle phobias as the insertion needle is never visible to the user
- Swimmers or others in water or other conditions that would require frequent or prolonged disconnection from a tubed pump
Omnipod 5 is NOT good for these users:
- Not recommended for those with very small basal dose needs as dose accuracy is poor in the smallest doses
- Users taking part in high-impact activities or grappling may struggle to find secure site placements due to high profile of pods
- Users with frequent exposure to MRI or similar technologies, as removal of metal pieces requires replacing the entire pod
- Those who have variable basal insulin needs from day to day
- Those who like to have a more active role in their management
- Those who lean heavily on using extended boluses for management
More Omnipod 5 Resources
For more information on the Omnipod 5 check out what our clinicians have shared:
Your Partner in DIABETES COACHING
Ready to take your child’s Diabetes care to the next level? Schedule a talk with our team. We offer remote Diabetes Management, or if you’re looking for an in-person diabetes educator near Philadelphia, visit our office in Wynnewood, PA.