With an accurate insulin management system, a person with diabetes can enormously increase health, lifestyle comfort, and overall well-being. Among the most desired choices from Insulet Corporation lie the Omnipod 5 and the Omnipod Dash. Both provide reliable insulin delivery without requiring a tube, but in terms of features, unique needs are targeted. We’ll compare the Omnipod Dash Vs Omnipod 5, their features, limitations, and who would better fit your needs for proper decision.
Overview of Omnipod Dash Vs Omnipod 5
Omnipod Dash
The Omnipod Dash is the newest version of a tubeless, simple insulin pump that continues delivering insulin for up to 72 hours. It operates via Bluetooth and is controlled by a Personal Diabetes Manager with smartphone-like designs.
Omnipod 5
Omnipod 5 was developed by Insulet. It is the first of its class in tubeless, automated insulin delivery, directly connecting to a Continuous Glucose Monitor like Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7, and the freestyle libre 2 plus sensor. It makes adjustments in real-time. Many find this preferable and more controlled than constant adjustment without doing it manually.
Key Differences Omnipod Dash Vs Omnipod 5
Automated Insulin Delivery (AID)
One significant difference between the systems is that Omnipod 5’s AID:
- Omnipod Dash: This does not have bolus calculations and automatically adjusts based on CGM data. However, it will track usage. It is good for patients who are comfortable with manually adjusting or wish to have more control over their insulin dosing.
- Omnipod 5: This one shines in terms of automation. It can use the Dexcom G6 CGM, which causes it to change the basal insulin delivery every five minutes according to real-time glucose levels. It would be ideal for people who want a more streamlined way of managing their diabetes or for people who consistently have high or low glucose levels.
Device Compatibility
- OmniPod Dash: It can be used only by its PDM. It looks like a phone but cannot connect with mobile devices. It only works by Bluetooth, and a user cannot control it with a mobile device.
- OmniPod 5: It can be used by its PDM and Android smartphones (iOS can also be supported in later updates). This flexibility is beneficial to users who want to control their diabetes on their smartphones.
Adjustments and Personalization
Both devices allow for personalized basal rates, but the adaptive control through CGM on Omnipod 5 is even more adaptable as follows:
- Omnipod Dash: The user manually configures the basal rate programs. Up to 24 programs can be customized. This is outstanding personalization, but the adjustment must be made at the patient’s discretion according to their glucose monitor data.
- Omnipod 5: This pump comes with a learning algorithm that adjusts insulin automatically, using CGM readings and the individual’s glucose trend to control fluctuations more easily. This adaptive feature could be useful for individuals wanting to minimize the amount of manual insulin management involved.
Battery Life and Charging
- OmniPod Dash: This provides a reusable PDM that lasts for up to three days on a single charge. The pods are consumables that contain three days’ worth of insulin infusion and can then be disposed of.
- Omnipod 5: The PDM also has a rechargeable battery, with a similar three-day life depending on screen brightness and usage. As with Dash, Omnipod 5 pods are disposable, so it’s a new beginning each time you change the pod.
Cost and Insurance
Cost is variable depending on insurance coverage, but this is the general picture:
- Omnipod Dash: Overall, this device is less expensive for users who do not need a CGM subscription because it does not provide this service.
- Omnipod 5: It is costly since it provides CGM, which includes its own benefits, but most people consider the value of AID to be worth the increased price.
Summary of Advantages and Disadvantages
Omnipod Dash
Pros:
- It has lower primary and maintenance costs.
- Suitable for users who prefer manual control.
- Tubing-free and tubeless designs are highly reliable.
Cons:
- Lack of automated insulin delivery based on CGM data.
- It only supports PDM control and is not compatible with smartphone applications.
Omnipod 5
Pros:
- Completely automated insulin delivery using Dexcom G6 CGM.
- The adjustments will automatically adapt and work in real time to regulate glucose management.
- The flexibility of PDM and Android smartphone applications for controlling your device.
Cons:
- High expense, mainly if adding in the costs of the CGM.
- Only available through the Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7, and Freestyle Libre 3 sensor CGMs for automated management.
Feature | Omnipod Dash | Omnipod 5 |
---|---|---|
Insulin Delivery Type | Manual | Automated (AID) |
Controller | Omnipod PDM | PDM or Compatible Smartphone App |
CGM Integration | No | Dexcom G6, Dexcom g7 and Freestyle libre 2 plus sensor |
Basal Adjustments | Fixed, manual | SmartAdjust (every 5 minutes) |
Ease of Use | Moderate | Easy |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
Target Audience | Manual control users | Users seeking automation |
Which Omnipod System Is Best for You?
It comes down to your personal preferences and needs, whether you need an Omnipod Dash or an Omnipod 5
Omnipod Dash is the best choice when you desire a simple and cost-effective insulin pump with no automated CGM-based adjustments. Dash is excellent for people who want the most manual control over their insulin use.
Omnipod 5 would be your best choice if you want more automation and can live using a CGM. Its real-time adjustments can stabilize glucose with much less intervention. It’s best for someone with active or unpredictable schedules.
Conclusion: Enhance Diabetes Care with Omnipod
Omnipod Dash and Omnipod 5 are accessible from traditional tubed insulin pumps and are reliable, discreet, and convenient for managing diabetes. However, hands-on control in Omnipod Dash pods is great for users, whereas automated adjustments in Omnipod 5 give people more peace of mind to integrate with CGM technology seamlessly. Whatever the case, both provide the benefits of tubeless design and flexibility for people with diabetes to live healthier, more manageable lives.
Reference
https://www.healthline.com/diabetesmine/omnipod-loop-diy-initial-review#omnipod-5
https://www.westernhealth.com/provider/prior-authorization-criteria/insulin-pump-therapy-omnipod-dash-omnipod-5/#:~:text=The%20Omnipod%205%20Pod%20is,3%20days%20(72%20hours).
https://www.adces.org/docs/default-source/advocacy/op5-vs-dash-comparison.pdf?sfvrsn=77029158_2