Diabetes Devices and Technology

January 7, 2025

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Ping H. Wang, M.D., professor and chair, Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, City of Hope^® Cancer Center Duarte

Diabetes technology options have expanded significantly in recent years. These portable and wearable devices measure blood sugar without the need for fingersticks, help manage insulin doses and detect other things as well. The devices can make life with diabetes easier to manage.

From meters and monitors to pumps and pens, today’s diabetes monitoring and insulin devices are simpler to use and more comfortable than ever. With many options available, patients may try different ones to find the appropriate tools that fit their unique needs and lifestyle.

Diabetes Monitoring Devices

Diabetes monitoring devices keep track of blood glucose levels and give patients real-time feedback to help manage diabetes. Some devices are able to send this information directly to the care team, making it easier to monitor and adjust treatment recommendations remotely.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a tool that measures blood sugar levels every few minutes and keeps track of blood glucose levels throughout the day and night. Patients are able to check their blood glucose anytime and watch how it changes over hours or days. It might be a tool that is used for a short time to adjust diabetes care, or it may be ongoing.

This tracking allows patients to make choices about food, exercise and medication. A CGM may help patients keep their glucose levels within a healthy range and lower the risk of diabetes complications.

How Does a CGM Device Work?

A CGM system has three main parts.

Sensor: This tiny detector goes just under the skin on the belly or arm and is held in place with an adhesive patch. This sensor measures glucose levels in the fluid between cells, which is similar to that in the blood. Some sensors are disposable and need to be changed every few days or weeks, while implantable sensors are designed for longer use.

Transmitter: This part sends the glucose readings wirelessly to the third part — an application (app) on a smartphone, smartwatch or other device.

Receiver: This is the app that typically runs on a smartphone/watch or an insulin pump, allowing patients to see their glucose levels in real time.

Insulin Delivery Devices

New insulin delivery devices are helping some patients manage diabetes without the need for traditional syringes. Instead, options like insulin pens, pumps and automated systems may make it easier to keep insulin levels steady throughout the day.

Some of these devices even connect to glucose monitors and use algorithms to adjust insulin doses, bringing a whole new level of convenience and control to diabetes care.

Insulin Pump

An insulin pump is a small, computerized device that helps people with diabetes keep their insulin levels steady throughout the day.

It delivers a continuous, low dose of rapid-acting insulin, covering the body’s basic insulin needs. For meals, users program the pump to give an extra dose, or bolus, based on the number of carbohydrates in their food.

Most pumps have a reservoir that holds insulin and tubing that connects to a tiny tube, or cannula, placed under the skin. Some pumps are tubeless, meaning they sit directly on the skin without extra tubing. The majority of modern insulin pumps can be connected with CGMs.

Insulin Pen

A smart insulin pen is a reusable injection device that makes it easier for people with diabetes to manage their insulin doses. This pen connects to a smartphone app, which helps patients stay on top of their insulin schedule with reminders and dose tracking.

Smart pens come with a calculator to figure out the appropriate amount of insulin needed for meals based on blood glucose levels and carb intake. This feature helps reduce the risk of missed doses and may even suggest adjustments for high blood sugar.

Insulin Pump with CGM (Artificial Pancreas)

Smart insulin pumps are now linked to continuous glucose monitors to make managing diabetes easier and more automatic — almost like having an artificial pancreas. The CGM constantly tracks blood glucose levels in these combined systems and sends this information to the pump. Based on artificial intelligence modeling, the pump adjusts insulin delivery, helping to keep blood glucose levels within a target range without as much patient input.

An automated monitor and pump is sometimes called a “closed-loop system.” A new generation of pumps is now available and helps simplify diabetes management by creating a continuous, feedback-driven cycle.

Advanced insulin pumps with a closed-loop system can greatly improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. They automate basal and bolus insulin delivery based on machine learning of CGM data.