Podcast Summary: Taking Control Of Your Diabetes® - The Podcast!
Episode Title: What Sets These Diabetes Devices Apart and More Importantly What Device Is Uniquely Right For YOU in 2025, with David Ahn, MD
Date: April 30, 2025
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Pettus and Dr. Steve Edelman
Guest: Dr. David Ahn

Episode Overview

This episode delivers a deep dive into the latest advances in diabetes technology for 2025. Hosts Dr. Jeremy Pettus and Dr. Steve Edelman—both endocrinologists and long-time diabetes patients—welcome expert Dr. David Ahn. Together, they dissect updates in continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), automated insulin delivery systems, and the growing scope of device customization. The central theme is not only what’s new, but how to select the device uniquely right for each person with diabetes.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Introduction & Importance of Device Choice

• Diabetes tech changes rapidly; what was relevant a year ago is nearly outdated.
• Patients and providers face ever more choices, making education crucial.
• Key question: How do you pick the optimal device for your personal needs?

2. Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): Major Updates

Dexcom G7: Now 15-day Wear

• Latest News: Dexcom G7 sensor approved for 15 days of use (was 10).
• Accuracy: Improved algorithm, MARD now 8.0%.
• Launch Consideration: Alignment with pump integration may delay rollout.
• Adhesive: Same as current G7; improvements for stickiness; pediatric indication remains with 10-day G7.
• Quote:

  “Slightly more accurate. Longer by 5 days. Slightly more accurate.”
  — Dr. Ahn [03:48]

Medtronic Simplera & Libre Partnership

• Simplera: All-in-one, fully disposable sensor—no separate transmitter, easier to wear.
• Medtronic + Libre Integration: By later 2025, Medtronic pumps will support a Libre-based sensor, marking new era of mix-and-match.
• Quote:

  “Medtronic, which has been kind of really a little bit stubborn... are going to integrate with a different sensor.”
  — Dr. Ahn [08:59]

Eversense: Implantable CGM

• Lasts One Year: Tiny implantable sensor, placed just under the skin.
• Transmitter Detaches: Flexibility for users, ideal for those with adhesive allergies.
• Calibration: Now only once per week (previously daily).
• Cost: With insurance/Medicare, about $700/year including procedure.
• Ideal For: MDI (multiple daily injections), pump-averse, and many with Type 2 diabetes.
• Quote:

  "It's a whole year where you don't have the first day jitters."
  — Dr. Ahn [12:41]

Over-the-Counter CGMs: Dexcom Stelo & Abbott Lingo

• Who’s it for? Non-insulin users, wellness community, uninsured.
• Features: No hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia alerts, but post-meal spike feedback.
• How to buy: Directly from the companies, not yet in brick-and-mortar pharmacies.
• Price: ~$90-100/month.
• Quote:

  “I don't think I've ever met a person without diabetes who put one on and did not find it fascinating and they changed some of their habits.”
  — Dr. Edelman [17:48]

Software/App Updates

• Dexcom: Advanced user controls (e.g., snooze alarms, delayed alerts).
• Libre: New unified "Libre by Abbott" app supports all sensors and transforms older models into true continuous monitors (no more swiping required).
• Quote:

  “Just with an app update, they've been able to turn it into a continuous glucose monitor.”
  — Dr. Ahn [19:36]

Continuous Ketone Monitors (CKMs)

• Abbott To Launch CKM: Integrates ketone monitoring with glucose; alerts users only if ketones are dangerously high.
• Controversy: Is this essential or simply “nice to have”? Strongest application may be for those on SGLT2 inhibitors or at higher DKA risk.
• Quote:

  “Useful, yes, absolutely. Required, no.”
  — Dr. Ahn [22:29]

3. Hybrid Closed-Loop & Automated Insulin Delivery Systems

Why It’s Confusing (System-Pump-Sensor Integrations)

• 2025 sees five systems, multiple CGM compatibility, and an unprecedented level of patient choice.
• Providers and patients must both stay current—patients often educate their providers!

Medtronic 780G & Updates

• Aggressive Algorithm: Strong auto-correction, “meal detection”, stress-free for users.

• Seven-day infusion set: Fewer changes, potential for improved absorption.

• Upcoming Libre compatibility: Greater flexibility.

• Quote:

  “It's very aggressive in a safe way...as long as I just basically announce that I'm eating, it takes care of it.”
  — Dr. Pettus [26:46]

Sequel Twist Pump

• Brand-new (2025): Tubed pump, acoustic occlusion detection for safety.
• Loop Algorithm: First-ever company-supported Loop, highly customizable.
• Form Factor: Compact, ~powder compact sized, holds 300 units.
• Quote:

  “If you're the type of person who likes to kind of micromanage and fiddle with all the dials, you're gonna love the loop.”
  — Dr. Ahn [30:31]

Beta Bionics iLet Pump

• Hands-Off Design: User enters weight, only signals meal size—not carbs; no basal/sensitivity adjustments needed.
• Upgrades: Now with color screen; unique in integrating Libre 3.
• Ideal For: People seeking minimal interaction, “good enough” A1c, not micro-managers.

Tandem Control-IQ & Mobi

• Mobi: Smallest Tandem pump, optional on-body wear.
• Control-IQ Plus: New features—8-hour extended bolus, temp basal overlays, broader customization.
• Compatibility: Works with Dexcom G6, G7, Libre 2 Plus (Libre 3 pending).

Omnipod 5

• Patch Pump (No Tubing): Compatible with Dexcom G6, G7, Libre 2 Plus (with restrictions on phone control).
• iPhone Control: Fully available for G6; G7 support pending.
• Patient Segmentation: Patch (tubeless) vs. Tubed pump is the “first split” in pump selection.
• Quote:

  “It's an individual form factor.”
  — Dr. Edelman [36:56]

Coming Soon: Dual Hormone Pumps

• Insulin + Glucagon: Aimed at reducing hypoglycemia, especially during exercise.
• Complications: Technical, cost, and user-friendliness unknowns remain.
• Quote:

  “It's kind of one of the controversies...are these insulin-only systems going to be better? Or will the dual hormone benefit outweigh the cons...?”
  — Dr. Ahn [38:33]

Memorable Quotes and Banter

• On device confusion:

  “If you're confused—me too. We have like tables and stuff online.”
  — Dr. Pettus [33:10]

• On rapid tech advances:

  "We’re gonna go ahead and book [David] for next year...and now let’s go do it.”
  — Dr. Pettus [39:15]

• On patients keeping up:

  “If you feel like you have to educate your provider, that's the norm, that even the quote unquote, best providers who are really trying to stay on top of this can fall behind. So good for you for listening and getting educated on this.”
  — Dr. Pettus [23:52]

Key Takeaways & Flow of Advice

• Device Features Change Fast: Updates occur annually; what was cutting-edge 12 months ago may be old news now.
• Customization & Choice: Patient preferences—form factor, sensor compatibility, control “hands-on/off” level—should drive device selection.
• Integration Boom: 2025 marks real interoperability between pumps and multiple CGMs; “mix-and-match” is finally a reality.
• Trial Periods: Most devices can now be “test driven”; switching is less permanent or stressful.
• Stay Informed: Even expert clinicians struggle to keep up—empowering patients makes better outcomes possible.

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:20 – 03:48: New CGMs (Dexcom G7, Medtronic Simplera)
• 04:32 – 06:21: Dexcom adhesive and wear-life details
• 07:36 – 09:39: Medtronic-Libre partnership; device integration landscape
• 10:10 – 14:20: Eversense implantable sensor; calibration and suitability
• 15:36 – 17:48: OTC CGMs—Dexcom Stelo, Abbott Lingo—purpose and costs
• 18:21 – 19:58: App/software improvements across CGM brands
• 20:01 – 24:00: Continuous ketone monitoring (CKM) and who benefits most
• 25:45 – 27:59: Medtronic 780G closed loop; seven-day sets
• 29:06 – 31:26: Sequel Twist Pump intro; Loop algorithm
• 31:26 – 32:43: Beta Bionics iLet pump—“hands off” approach
• 33:10 – 34:44: Tandem Control IQ Plus and Mobi
• 35:56 – 36:56: Omnipod 5, phone control updates
• 37:15 – 39:15: Dual hormone pumps; future tech preview
• 39:15–end: Closing thoughts on narrowing choices and encouraging patients to trial devices

Final Thoughts

The diabetes technology field is exploding with innovation. Whether you value aggressive automation, “DIY” customization, invisible sensors, or simplicity and minimal user input, there is now a system for you. The biggest challenge is staying informed and making sure your prescription matches your lifestyle and preferences. Your “right device” is now more attainable than ever—with a little curiosity and a willingness to try.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember the hosts’ mantra: Educate yourself, lean into choice, and try before you commit. Change your device as your life and tech both evolve!