By providing a continuous delivery of insulin in tiny amounts the basal or background amount , which are programmed in units per hour. The pump delivers insulin for meals or snacks bolus amount , usually prior to eating, and can also provide an extra bolus to correct for a snack or high blood glucose.

So I can eat whatever I want, whenever I want

To a certain degree, yes. Insulin pump technology gives you the choice of when, what, and how much to eat without compromising blood glucose control. This flexibility allows you to sleep in, postpone or skip meals, and eat snacks the same as people who don’t have diabetes. While insulin pump technology gives you flexibility, you still have to understand the nutritional content of the food you’re eating so you can take enough insulin to control your blood glucose levels.

Will I still have to check for high blood glucose and low blood glucose

Yes. Your blood glucose levels can change while you’re on the pump for the same reasons they changed when you weren’t on the pump. There are some situations, however, that are unique to insulin pump technology that can lead to hyperglycemia high blood glucose : Too much food, not enough insulin, loss of insulin potency, and not receiving insulin from the pump. And since the pump only delivers fast-acting insulin, hyperglycemia can happen quickly.

If pump users don’t get enough food, take too much insulin, or exercise more than usual, they can still experience hypoglycemia low blood glucose . Pump users should always be prepared to treat their hypoglycemia by carrying a form of carbohydrate with them at all times. The suggested amount of carbohydrate to start with is 15 grams.

How often do I have to monitor my blood glucose

Four to six times a day. Blood glucose testing gives you accurate feedback and allows you to make immediate adjustments based on the results. And since the pump uses only fast-acting insulin and you have no long-acting insulin as a back up, blood glucose testing is necessary to alert you to high blood glucose and potential diabetic ketoacidosis DKA .

Is the pump suitable for children

Yes, children – even toddlers – can wear an insulin pump.

How much does insulin pump technology cost

You can purchase an insulin pump from Medtronic for as little as $4.11 a day.* Medtronic offers several payment plan options and many private and group health insurance plans cover insulin pumps and/or insulin pump supplies. Once you’re on insulin pump technology, you might be eligible for federal and provincial tax credits and may be able to claim any out-of-pocket pump and supply costs on your annual tax return.

* $0 down over 48 months, based on the purchase of a $6,000 insulin pump. Applicable interest rates may apply.

Okay, I want to know more. How do I start

Talk to your healthcare professional about insulin pump technology and call Medtronic Consumer Care for more information at 1-866-444-4649. You can also Request a brochure.

What happens if I need help

Medtronic provides ongoing support to all Medtronic pump users. If you have any questions after you get started, call Medtronic at 1-800-284-4416. Our staff of support professionals and dedicated diabetes nurses and specialists provide a number of free services to help you get comfortable with insulin pump technology.