Another automated insulin delivery option is underway - it’s called twiist and is powered by Tidepool. A few reddit users are on it but apparently it is not widely available; however there is a link on their website (twiist dot com) if you wish to be informed when it is coming to your area.
*twiist is a groundbreaking automated insulin delivery (AID) system that puts you in control with advanced features designed to personalize how you manage your type 1 diabetes.
With flexible wear options, discreet design, and a 300-unit insulin capacity, the twiist Pump is built for both convenience and peace of mind.
Powered by Tidepool, the twiist AID System offers the widest glucose target range available and gives you the freedom to manage your insulin directly from your iPhone and optional, connected Apple Watch.*1
I played around with Twiist in the Spring when it first was revealed and found some very favorable attributes. Weighing the pros & cons, I’ve delayed making the change.
Basically, I found this to be a very good product with features PwD have been asking for and well worth a “lookin inta”; Tidepool apps recognize and link to just about all CGM and BGM, but The Twiist, so far, requires iPhone for operability. Tidepool [ Tidepool.org ] is a grassroots “Powered by People” enterprise sponsored by JDRF for many years.
Thanks Dennis - I’m not surprised to hear you checked it out as you’re always on top of the latest developments! It looks intriguing although if were going to switch to something (no plans to) it would probably be Tandem Mobi. I saw a pic where one was sitting on top of a soda can so it’s a bit bigger them Omnipod but it looks like you can wear it on your skin or run the tubing from a pocket.Did you wear it (in use or not)? If so what did it feel like?
Dorie, I did not wear the device, just played around with it and asked questions. Around the time Twiist was announced, a representative from Sequel, the manufacturer, and a Twist medical adviser visited the regular monthly Coffee of our small JDRF group to show off the new tool and gather feedback.
Yes, it can be worn, similar to Mobi;
The diameter might be a bit larger than OmniPod, but Twiist is less bulky, ..noticeably less bulky and doesn’t have the automatic 72 hour shutdown;
I got to see it at a BT1D shindig after following its development on another forum. It ain’t big but the round shape makes it bigger than the competition. In inches:
Pump
Length
Width
Height
Twiist
2.3
2.2
0.7
Omnipod 5
2.1
1.5
0.6
Mobi
2.0
1.5
0.6
The basic pump has been on the market a couple of years for a cardiac drug. The Tidepool AID algorithm is Loop from between 2021-2022. Unlike Loop the algorithm runs on the pump. This is the way.
Like the Omnipod 5 the Twiist doesn’t do automatic boluses, unlike the omnipod you have complete control over your basal rate schedule. Auto mode is fine tuning the rates you set. Also like the Omnipod the Twiist is going to be sold through the pharmacy channel so if you are interested in it next time open enrollment comes around check the formulary for coverage. I’ve seen it already added to a couple and some plans publishing documentation that makes exceptions relatively easy. For the initial rollout the pump is only available through Byram. I know, a pharmacy channel product is being sold by a company that is best known for DME.
Other bits are it has proprietary battery packs that you have to swap out to charge. The pump has a Luer lock to connect to infusion sets. Only compatible with Libre 3 plus. Officially only compatible with Novolog and Humalog insulin. The adhesive patch shown in the marketing photos isn’t available.
Thanks for sharing. Battery packs? I thought they were completely disposable like Omnipods but I see I was mistaken. When I saw the first pic of the device with tubing it reminded me of the applicators for T-slim infusion sets but much lower profile (and maybe smaller diameter).
I just started on Medicare this year and am not really looking to switch so I haven’t looked into their coverage for it, but I’m always intrigued by new items and features. Thanks!
