A Deep Dive Into Open Source Code (DIY) Looping
By: Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES Director of Intensive Diabetes Management
For those of us living with Type 1 diabetes, using a system that automatically adjusts insulin delivery is now considered as the gold standard method to manage glucose levels. Commercial hybrid closed-loop systems such as the OmniPod 5, Tandem Control-IQ, BetaBionics iLet, Sequel Medtech Twiist, and Medtronic 780G have already dramatically improved self-management for many users. But long before these systems reached the market, a passionate online community of people with diabetes started building their own automated insulin delivery systems. In fact, some of today’s commercial systems have utilized the code and components of the algorithms from the open source community built options in their commercial algorithms!
What Is Open Source Code (DIY) Looping?
DIY (Do-It-Yourself) looping refers to using open-source software to connect your insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and smartphone to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery and (optionally) deliver automated boluses. These systems — such as Loop, Trio, and AndroidAPS — were built by the diabetes community for the diabetes communities and not by commercial companies.
Users build their system from publicly shared code (open source) and specific compatible devices. This empowers people to create their own automated insulin delivery setup with (hopefully) regionally available pumps and CGMs. The goal is the same as commercial systems: improved glucose management, less time spent managing diabetes, and improved quality of life.
The Allure
People who choose to loop often describe life-changing benefits. Many report more time in range, fewer nighttime lows, and a significant reduction in mental load. The algorithm quietly handles corrections while the user focuses on living life. Some also appreciate the customizability — being able to fine-tune settings, adjust targets, set up presets, favorites, Temp Targets, and many other available features.
Loopers often share stories of finally sleeping through the night without fear of hypoglycemia or enjoying a meal without having to administer frequent corrections afterward. For tech-comfortable users, the appeal is clear: it offers cutting-edge performance today, with a safety-proven track record, and a myriad of customizability.
The Caveats
Open source looping is not FDA-approved and is used at one’s own risk. That means no commercial company provides official support, and many healthcare providers may have limited familiarity or be hesitant to advise on troubleshooting. Users are responsible for understanding the technology and updating and maintaining their version of their own app on their own cell phone. While the pumps and CGMs are all FDA-approved (in the US), the algorithms and features are not.
Just like with every system, there is a learning curve. However, building the open-source app that controls the system involves following detailed instructions. For non-tech comfortable people, it can feel nerve-racking! There will be needed system version updates. There may be app crashes or other problem-solving needed. For some, that level of responsibility and technical upkeep can feel stressful rather than freeing.
Finally, not all devices are compatible. Many looping setups require older pump models with specific communication ability. Some of the pumps may be hard to find, not available in your country of residence, or not covered by your insurance.
Who It Might Be Right For
Open Source Code Automated Insulin Delivery systems (looping) tend to fit people who:
- Are comfortable with technology and problem-solving.
- Have strong diabetes self-management skills and understand basal/bolus concepts.
- Are motivated to research and stay engaged in online support communities.
For others, commercial hybrid systems may offer a more supported path to automation — with great glucose outcomes and less maintenance.
The Bottom Line
Open source looping represents the incredible creativity and collaboration of the diabetes community.
It’s a testament to how far innovation can go — and how much people with diabetes continue to drive progress. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
If you’re intrigued, start by learning more. Explore community resources such as LoopDocs, TrioDocs, and AndroidAPS.readthedocs websites.
Review some of our Think Like a Pancreas…The Podcast episodes.
Watch some Integrated Diabetes YouTube videos.
Talk with your diabetes care team about your goals and options.
2 Responses
I’d like to thank you and the IDS team for your openness and apparent honesty regarding DIY systems! I’ve used Loop, Trio and iAPS and settled into Trio, but maintain both Loop and Trio on my phone and monitor both developments. I’m not a user of your practices in that I’ve paid for services, but I have referenced and recommended them to others on various T1 support sites as an honest broker and helpful medium and purveyor of assistance with this condition. I’d like to donate anyway to the organization as I’ve benefitted from your site, articles, and references but don’t know how to do so. Please let me know the best way.
Hi Tom, thank you for the kind comments. I am so glad you benefit from the information we provide. We are grateful that you share info about IDS with others who may be in need of our services. Regarding a donation, we are not a nonprofit, but your donation can help us to serve patients who otherwise cannot afford to pay for our services. To donate, please call the office at (610) 642-6055, option 2, and provide Nancy with a credit card number and the amount you would like to donate, or send a check to our office at
IDS
333 E LANCASTER AVE
STE 204
WYNNEWOOD, PA 19096
Thank you, again, for your kind comments and for planning to donate! We appreciate you!
-Tavia Vital