Sequel Med Tech's twiist Insulin Pump Integrates with Abbott's CGM, Set for Market Launch

Sequel Med Tech has announced a significant advancement in diabetes management technology, integrating Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus continuous glucose monitor (CGM) with its twiist automated insulin pump system. This collaboration marks a crucial step forward in the company's preparation for commercial launch, scheduled for the end of June.

FDA Clearance and System Features

The twiist system, designed for individuals aged six and older with Type 1 diabetes, received FDA clearance a year ago. It incorporates the FDA-cleared Tidepool Loop software, which records CGM blood sugar readings, predicts trends, and adjusts background insulin levels accordingly. Notably, the twiist is the first automated insulin delivery (AID) system to directly measure the volume of each dose, enhancing accuracy and alerting users to potential blockages.

Dean Kamen's Deka Research & Development played a crucial role in designing the pump, which represents a significant advancement in diabetes care technology. The system's recent FDA clearance expanded its use from children as young as 13 to those as young as 6, alongside additional approvals for the Tidepool controlling software and insulin tubing sets.

Accessibility and Affordability

Sequel Med Tech is prioritizing accessibility and affordability with the twiist system. The company has outlined plans for a savings program aimed at U.S. users covered by commercial insurance who subscribe to the system through a retail pharmacy. According to Sequel, most people with Type 1 diabetes will be able to obtain the pump for no more than $50 per month, based on their copay and coinsurance costs, without requiring a multi-year commitment.

Alan Lotvin, co-founder and CEO of Sequel, emphasized the company's commitment to making advanced diabetes management more accessible and flexible. He stated, "Abbott's FreeStyle Libre technology, known for its user-friendly design and broad accessibility, complements our innovative system."

Industry Context and Future Outlook

The collaboration between Sequel Med Tech and Abbott comes at a time of significant shifts in the diabetes technology landscape. Notably, Eli Lilly ended its own pump R&D efforts in 2022, as well as a collaboration with Ypsomed, to focus on its digital insulin pen. This decision followed the conclusion of Lilly's previous collaboration with Deka in 2020 to develop an automated insulin pump for people with Type 1 diabetes.

As Sequel Med Tech prepares for the commercial launch of the twiist system, the integration with Abbott's widely recognized CGM technology positions the company to potentially make a significant impact in the automated insulin delivery market. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining how this new system is received by healthcare providers and patients alike.