Tag: Diabetes Management

Introducing the InPen Smart Insulin Pen

Introducing the InPen Smart Insulin Pen

May 04, 2021

If you like the simplicity of multiple daily injection (MDI) therapy, but want the intelligence of an insulin pump, look no further than the InPen smart insulin pen system.

Finally, you can have sophisticated diabetes technology that’s easy to use – and affordable!

inpen smart insulin pen, inpen from medtronic

The InPen from Medtronic is the first and only FDA-cleared smart insulin pen system that helps you take the right dose, at the right time. By tracking your diabetes data to a smart app via Bluetooth, the InPen system provides personalized recommendations that fundamentally change how you manage MDI. You can dose with the InPen and let the InPen app do the tracking and monitor your active insulin throughout the day.

As InPen user Allison said, “InPen is a game-changer for anyone on multiple daily injections. With help from InPen, I feel more in control of my diabetes because I am confident that I am administering the right doses. I can’t imagine MDI without InPen in my toolbox and highly recommend this to anyone.”

Approved for ages 7 and up, the InPen is compatible with the following short-acting insulins: Fiasp, Humalog, and Novolog cartridges (separate prescription required). You can also log your long-acting insulin doses in the InPen app and set up dose reminders to take your long-acting insulin.

How to get the InPen smart insulin pen

Available through GEM Edwards Pharmacy, most commercial insurance plans cover the InPen, and you may also qualify for other assistance, bringing the cost down to as little as $35 per prescribed pen. After we receive your application, our Diabetes Care team will review your coverage, determine the best way for you to receive InPen, and work with your doctor to get the prescription so we can ship InPen directly to your home!

 

Is InPen from Medtronic right for you?

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Click to view full InPen safety information

Indications for Use
InPen requires a prescription. It is a home-use reusable pen injector for single-patient use by people with diabetes under the supervision of an adult caregiver or by a patient age 7 and older for the self-injection of a desired dose of insulin. The pen injector is compatible with Lilly Humalog® U-100 3.0 mL cartridges, Novo Nordisk Novolog® U-100 3.0 mL cartridges, and Novo Nordisk Fiasp® U-100 3.0 mL cartridges and single-use detachable and disposable pen needles (not included). The pen injector allows the user to dial the desired dose from 0.5 to 30 units in one-half (1/2) unit increments.
The InPen dose calculator, a component of the InPen app, is indicated for the management of diabetes by people with diabetes under the supervision of an adult caregiver, or by a patient age 7 and older for calculating an insulin dose or carbohydrate intake based on user-entered data.
For an insulin dose based on the amount of carbohydrates, a healthcare professional must provide patient-specific target blood glucose, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio, and insulin sensitivity parameters to be programmed into the software prior to use.
For an insulin dose based on fixed/variable meal sizes, a healthcare professional must provide patient-specific fixed doses/meal sizes to be programmed into the software prior to use.

Contraindications
The InPen system is not intended for anyone unable or unwilling to:
• Test blood glucose (BG) levels as recommended by a healthcare provider
• Maintain sufficient diabetes self-care skills
• Visit a healthcare provider regularly

InPen is not recommended for the blind or visually impaired without the assistance of a sighted individual trained to use it. Always carry a spare insulin delivery device in case your InPen is lost or damaged.

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What to Expect with an Insulin Pump

What to Expect with an Insulin Pump

January 04, 2021

An insulin pump is a great resource for improving life with diabetes, but it is still important to learn how your pump works and how to manage it while controlling your blood glucose.

When transitioning to an insulin pump, it is important to familiarize yourself with any changes by paying close attention to your levels and adjustments.

Adjusting to an Insulin Pump

You don’t need to be an overnight expert on your insulin pump; your healthcare team and Diabetes Care Advisor are here to assist with any questions. Use the information below as you begin to use an insulin pump. Still have questions?

Call us at 1-800-951-1725 or email us at dca@myehcs.com

What You’ll Need to Learn
  • Pump parts and features
  • Infusion sets
  • Caring for the insertion site
  • Adjusting insulin (basal/bolus)
  • Counting carbohydrates
  • Troubleshooting
  • Using syringes to prevent DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis)
Taking Insulin at Specific Times

Taking insulin at specific times throughout the day will not only help your body adjust, but also help it remember boluses, especially around meal times.

Traveling with an Insulin Pump

When traveling, bring extra pump supplies, syringes, and insulin in case you are unable to use your pump. It is always good to have a back up plan.

Watching the Foods You Eat

While using an insulin pump, when you eat, what you eat, and how much you eat are up to you. it may be a good idea to speak with a dietitian or healthcare provider about your diet when beginning to use an insulin pump.

Recording Blood Glucose Checks

Make a habit of recording your blood glucose checks, carbohydrate amounts, and correction doses. When talking with your healthcare provider, these records will help to adjust and address any areas of concern, if needed.

Turning off Your Pump

There may be times where you will need to turn off or remove your insulin pump. For an easy reminder to turn your pump back on, listen to the pump alarms or set a timer.

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What You Should Know About Diabetes Medications

What You Should Know About Diabetes Medications

November 12, 2020

You may need medication to control your blood glucose levels. It is important to take medications described by your physician and report any problems immediately. Please note, although you are taking medication, you still need to eat healthily, exercise regularly, and check your blood glucose levels each day.

Oral Medications

Taking pills can help keep blood sugar levels in a normal range and control diabetes. This method will only work with people whose bodies are still making some insulin, because diabetes pills are not insulin. It’s important to understand the below about all your medications.

  • Name (brand or generic) and dose of medication

  • When you take your medication

  • If medication should be taken with or without food

  • Common side effects, and what to do in case it occurs

Insulin Injections

Insulin is a natural hormone typically created by your pancreas. Those with diabetes are given insulin because their body has stopped producing the hormone or it is not being used properly.

Several factors are considered prior to prescribing insulin:

  • Length of diabetes diagnosis

  • Blood glucose level

  • Other medications being taken

  • Overall health

You should speak with your physician before skipping or stopping your medication. Each diabetes pill works differently, so do not share your medication with others.

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Know Your ABCs for Better Diabetes Management

Know Your ABCs for Better Diabetes Management

September 01, 2020

Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. By keeping your blood glucose close to normal levels, you can reduce your risk and/or avoid any potential life-threatening complication associated with diabetes.

The key is to know and understand your diabetes ABCs.

Oral Medications

Taking pills can help keep blood sugar levels in a normal range and control diabetes. This method will only work with people whose bodies are still making some insulin, because diabetes pills are not insulin. It’s important to understand the below about all your medications.

  • Name (brand or generic) and dose of medication

  • When you take your medication

  • If medication should be taken with or without food

  • Common side effects, and what to do in case it occurs

B is for Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force of blood flow in your blood vessels. High blood pressure can make your heart work too hard and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, eye problems, and kidney disease.

Your blood pressure goal should be below 140/90 unless your doctor helps you set a different goal.

C is for Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your body’s cells. HDL (good) cholesterol can help to protect your health. LDL (bad) cholesterol can clog your blood vessels and lead to heart disease.

Ask your health care team what your cholesterol numbers should be.

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Diabetes Myths: Ten Things You Should Know

Diabetes Myths: Ten Things You Should Know

August 01, 2020

There are a number of myths about diabetes that are commonly reported as facts.

Sometimes it’s tricky to separate fact from fiction. We’re here to help set the record straight.

What You’ll Need to Learn
  • Pump parts and features
  • Infusion sets
  • Caring for the insertion site
  • Adjusting insulin (basal/bolus)
  • Counting carbohydrates
  • Troubleshooting
  • Using syringes to prevent DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis)
Taking Insulin at Specific Times

Taking insulin at specific times throughout the day will not only help your body adjust, but also help it remember boluses, especially around meal times.

Traveling with an Insulin Pump

When traveling, bring extra pump supplies, syringes, and insulin in case you are unable to use your pump. It is always good to have a back up plan.

Watching the Foods You Eat

While using an insulin pump, when you eat, what you eat, and how much you eat are up to you. it may be a good idea to speak with a dietitian or healthcare provider about your diet when beginning to use an insulin pump.

Recording Blood Glucose Checks

Make a habit of recording your blood glucose checks, carbohydrate amounts, and correction doses. When talking with your healthcare provider, these records will help to adjust and address any areas of concern, if needed.

Turning off Your Pump

There may be times where you will need to turn off or remove your insulin pump. For an easy reminder to turn your pump back on, listen to the pump alarms or set a timer.

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What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?

What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?

July 20, 2020

A CGM system is a small, wearable device that measures glucose levels throughout the day and night, providing measurements ever few minutes and creating trend lines 24/7. The device works by inserting a sensor under the skin, which is doable at home. The constant stream of information gives you vital information to use when making decisions about how to manage your blood sugar.

CGMs include a sensor and reader/receiver, and some systems also require a transmitter. Typically, you can wear a sensor for 10-14 days, depending on the manufacturer’s FDA approval. The reader/receiver displays and stores your glucose data so you can download readings, review history, and identify glucose trends.

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CGMs We Carry

We carry many name brand CGMs. Select each cgm below to learn more.

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Available Now: Dexcom G6 Covered by Medicare

Available Now: Dexcom G6 Covered by Medicare

July 06, 2019

Always know your glucose number and where it’s headed with The Dexcom G6® therapeutic continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) System! Now, this system is covered under Medicare for people with diabetes on intensive insulin therapy who meet the eligibility criteria.

dexcom g6 covered by medicare, dexcom cgm with medicare, dexcom g6 for beneficiaries

Oral Medications

Taking pills can help keep blood sugar levels in a normal range and control diabetes. This method will only work with people whose bodies are still making some insulin, because diabetes pills are not insulin. It’s important to understand the below about all your medications.

  • Name (brand or generic) and dose of medication

  • When you take your medication

  • If medication should be taken with or without food

  • Common side effects, and what to do in case it occurs

Need Supplies? Enroll with EHCS Today!

Enroll Today
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