It seems that the latest hype in the diabetes community is the announcement of the Animas Vibe insulin pump that was announced as receiving European CE Mark approval last week. I have to admit that like so many others, I am very excited about this. Being both an Animas pump and Dexcom user, of course I will be happy when the two become integrated. I took a stab quite a while back at the Medtronic integrated CGMS when it was the Paradigm. Unfortunately it did not provide accurate results or comfort for me. But I did really like that the pump and sensors fed the same device.
From the information I’ve gathered, this won’t be available in the US until late this year or next. I am very disappointed about this. While I appreciate the process of ensuring medical devices are safe for consumers here in the states, I find it frustrating that they hold up the availability of such devices that would improve the management of blood glucose for those living with diabetes. If it’s safe enough for those living in Europe, what makes the citizens of US different?
There was also a new meter introduced by Animas Canada recently. I found this out from fellow D Momma, Sherry.
It looks very similar to the Ping meter that’s in use in the US today except the screen is color, just like the pump. That’s pretty cool isn’t it? 😉 Now if there isn’t much change to the meter, why would the FDA be holding this up too? I’ve heard that when the Vibe comes to the US it will not have the “Ping” feature meaning that you will not be able to bolus from the meter. Does that mean the new color screen meter will not be coming with the pump? Will Animas US offer the new meter before the Vibe? I’d love to not have to guess the answers to these questions that I’m sure I’m not the only one wondering about. Come on already FDA!
(note: the pictures are all courtesy of Animas and their Vibe press release)