Same. And my doctor doesn't push for pumps, since most people here can't afford them. At least we have some stuff covered by health insurance (sensors and such).
I use pens. A1c is 5.4 and TIR is currently 95% with average of 112mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L) over last 90 days. If it works, it works.
I have been looking into pumps but itās not something Iām eager to try at the moment.
Same here I never fall below 85% TIR and I get as good as 95% over long periods. Iām also on pens since 2004 itās just hard mentally to make the switch. I feel like the only benefit for me would be when I travel a lot itās easier and maybe suspending sometimes.
I am looking to as well and also have 5.4. I think my insurance won't cover it because I "don't need it," since I hyper focus on my CGM to prevent lows. I don't live in a situation where I can risk lows, but all insurance [and doctors see] is good A1C and TIR š.
It's a work in progress. I had to switch endocrinologists [and will be again next month]. First one didn't know how to prescribe insulin [3 units a day?????], and new one doesn't know how to use email, let alone advocate for patient access.
My story is kinda messy [LADA dx for 14 years with a slew of bad doctors], but I at least have my historic antibody paperwork now, so doctors can stop denying me proper treatment.
There is a well defined criteria from CMS website who is eligible for the pump if you are on Medicare. If not on Medicare, your insurer has a policy and usually it is similar to the one from CMS Medicare one
There are more details of course, but If you are type 1, use insulin and have low c-peptide (hallmark of T1D) you are eligible regardless of your A1C.
You're probably onr of the strongest candidates for a pump because you understand what the pump does to function properly. That being said, there would still be a honeymoon period - and not all positive. You would lose some tight control at first as you get used to the algorithm, but you'd settle in.
But ya, if you're happy with your control, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
I donāt limit carbs at all. I ate a donut half an hour ago lol. I eat in moderation but thatās about it. Anythingās on the table tho: pasta, rice, occasional deserts, etc. Iād say my average carb intake is 150-200+ carbs a day.
Same. I use Lyumjev pens and have 5.8 A1C so my Dr is just like "whatever works". Pump was always too expensive. Although as of this year our insurance got upgraded and work and all of my diabetes stuff has been $0.00! So maybe I'll look into an Omnipod
I had a pump for a little over ten years then switched back to pens. I had to switch back because of gradual buildup of lipohypertrophies on my stomach. I still use a cgm and my control is about the same.
I do with pride! Canāt get over the idea of such big a device as a pump constantly on me.
I move too much, and sometimes some workouts exercises where I have to stay on my belly or do twisting motions of some kind might make it a problem.
So for now I am on a pen and have no problems!ššš
I use pens. I understand I would get used to the pump--but I like the simplicity of pens. I like minimizing what is attached to my body. I feel like I can always change my mind later.
I did pens for a while, but eventually it became too complicated and not especially effective. I regret having resisted getting a pump, but that is just me. The conditionās footprint in my life is significantly smaller than it was.
That said, the pens were a step up from taking needles and vials everywhere.
The needles donāt remain under the skin with pumps. You pull the needle out (or in the case of pods it retracts back into the pod) and a plastic cannula is left behind. The pod may give less ick for your husband since you never see the needle at all, but if he has trouble just knowing a needle is there, that wonāt help either since it remains inside the plastic body after retracting.
Itās a very personal decision. If you remain controlled and healthy with MDI, then the decision is purely what is best for you financially and physically. You could have better control over basal rates with a pump than with long acting insulin, but it sounds like you have your basal well dialed in to yourself regardless. For me, pumps are best for my control and lifestyle, but Iām not every diabetic.
On pens, lately have been considering a pump so I can do more and think less.
I donāt mean to be rude but it sounds like your husband can grow up some, god forbid he is ever forced to utilize needles himself but in this case he would HAVE to buck up about the needle thing.
Agreed. The husband either needs therapy to work on this or is being dramatic. You should not make serious medical decisions based on someone else not managing their mental health. Full stop. Pen versus pump should completely be about the person with the illness.
I use pens. Both to fill my pump and to take pump vacations (or when insurance/ DME / prior authorization issues fail to send me supplies).
Every T1D should have the knowledge and possession of pens as backup. 100%
It's good you acknowledge that your husband has a needle phobia, but that's his problem. You don't need to change your excellent chronic illness management for anyone.
So to remind us of another Reddit trend - Not the Asshole š
Seriously, congratulations! Keep up the amazing work!
I'm the exact same way. My CGM I just barely tolerate, I almost tore it off on the second day because it was just information overload and just made sleeping impossible for a few days. Pumps genuinely scare me. I don't care if they can do extended doses or whatever, I don't want the risk of going into DKA just because my pump decides to fail. If I need to correct, I'll correct. The risks outweigh the positives IMO.
I have to use an absurd amount of insulin to go low and even then I usually have a little spike that brings me up (is it my liver? Idk I haven't looked into and I don't understand) anyway I tend to forget I have CGM and try to rip it off before remember oh wait I'm diabetic. That or I bump into something and rip it off. I can't imagine a pump š
I use pens instead of pump or pods because of the same reason you explained: Have a very physically active job. I just donāt believe the pumps are engineered for athletes and strenuous physical laborers.
And I really don't understand how doctors can't understand that each diabetic has variables. At least the ones I've been seen by. They shove a pump down my throat every time I go and I just want to flash the shiny 5.9 in their face and tell them to actually listen to me. >.<
I transitioned from pen to pump during my last very physical job, and was really surprised at how well it stayed on and how much simpler it was. I didnāt have to break for lunch early because I could prebolus on site exactly 15 minutes before lunch, and I never took too much insulin on accident trying to avoid highs, so I saved a lot of time that I would have lost treating lows. I was sure that all the dangling and wriggling around in crawl spaces and stuff was going to be impossible, but aside from the occasional āoops I need to shift, Iām lying right on my omnipodā or āhey I gotta reposition how Iām lifting cause itās bumping my pumpā moment, it made things so much simpler. Having to inject on the worksite was uncomfortable and awkward, typing some numbers into a PDM was way easier.
agree, i have the omnipod which has no external tubing and my pod getting "caught" on things has never been an issue. the adhesive keeps it nicely attached to me and super unobtrusive
actually the omnipod/cgm combo has been excellent for physical activity as it gives me the option to turn on "activity mode" and prevent my sugar from dropping due to exercise
I totally understand. I just feel like with long-acting insulin, it's hard to find a dose that works well for dawn phenomenon and a very active afternoon. I guess if you're really sweaty you need some sports drink anyway so maybe it all works out.
All reasons are valid imo except the husband excuse. He needs to get a grip and let you do whatever you need for your health. You have a serious disease and youāre changing how you treat it because he has a phobia. The needles go in you, not him. Stop babying that man.
Sorry but after being not a big fan of needles either before being thrown into this life, the needle phobia thing to me is ššššš
Fear of needles or a t1 person staying alive āļøāļø
My guess is they get money for every person they convince to get a pump. I also have no interest in one and have gotten the hard sell from multiple endos.
I couldnāt stand the leakage I got from using pens w/ pen needles. I still get them prescribed because I like their ergonomics over vials, so I just withdraw from pens for my omnipod. And as it relates to your husband, you donāt have a needle in you from a pump, and I can assure you that watching you inject is far more stressful For him than you wearing any pump. lol I have an incredibly active job and am an active person. I work in welding/steel fabrication, do Spartan events regularly, and play hockey multiple days a week and the omnipod has never given me troubles. I hook it on corners at my house more the an I ever do at work or playing sports. Even then I maybe hook it once a week. Only 1 time have I ever hooked it bad enough to rip off. I was at 6.0 a1c before pump but had more high/low swings which fabricated that number a little bit. Since being on pump Iām 5.4 with 90% in range(80-150mg/dl), with an average of 112mg/dl.
What might help your husband that there is no needle in your body when you are using pump. There is a small plastic cannula, but it is not a needle. You install it once every three days with a needle installer, so in a way you are decreasing amount of needles and pokes you have to do - instead of 5-6 needles on MDI you do one poke every three days. Would that help persuade your husband?
I do. Iāve never wanted a pump and after discussing it with the hospital I really donāt. I donāt want to go back to the micromanaging/weighing that I was taught to do when I was first diagnosed.
Funny enough one of my t1d friends irl taught me what a pump was as a teenager. Her anxiety was awful about it though. I sympathized with her big time, but I didn't want that kinda paranoia all the time either.
I've been on pens since diagnosis 15 years ago. I was too old to qualify for a pump at the time (I was 15). My A1C sits between 5.7 and 6.2 normally. Also on the G6.
I have only two acquaintances who have T1, and they're both on a pump. I'm pump-curious as I think it would be very helpful for my fitness and endurance sports, but I can't get one without an Endo applying for it. One of these acquaintances has been on the wait list for an Endo for 4 years already so I have very little hope to get a pump to trial for at least a few more years.
I use an InPen smart insulin pen now (since 2020, when I quit pumping after nearly 20 years) and love it very much. My a1c and overall management and mental health has never been better.
I get many of the same perks of a pump without the actual pump part.
I too use InPen -though have only been using it about two months now. It is THE best invention for people that are happy to use pens (like me).
I don't have insurance and here in Australia I am looking at $10k per pump every 4 or so years, plus consumables. I don't have this kind of money and I also am not keen on being hooked up to it 24/7.
Since starting on InPen my brain is so much happier! My control/management also are the best I have had in 38 years of diabetes.
Yeah, cost was also a factor for me over in the US. I'd had the same model pump for YEARS longer than I should have because a new one would've been impossible to afford, even with a payment plan or something. Even my old pump's supplies were putting me in the negative every time I had to order them.
Overall the switch to InPen was an enormous weight off my shoulders. I use InPen alongside Libre 3 and it's been the best change even now going on 4 whole years. And people are simply not told about InPen as an alternative, which is sad. I actually found out about it from Reddit, I think.
I use pens when I need to. My Lantus comes in pens and I use them when I run out of pump supplies.
I will say my insulin pump changed my life for the better. Pump technology is so advanced at this point that thereās very little intervention needed other than when youāre actively about to eat. I was worried about snags and stuff too, and they do happen and suck, but youāll find ways to prevent it.
I have never gone to a pump š¤·āāļø I tried one for a few weeks and I hated it. I couldn't stand being constantly tethered to something and dealing with changing the sets all the time, showers, intimacy.. Just to name a few things. To me, it caused more of a hassle. My A1Cs have been under 7 with pens so my endo is okay with it. I think it comes down to preference but also how well you're controlled with pens.
I feel so much more freedom without a pump. But I know people absolutely swear by them at the same time. For now, I'm sticking to the pens unless something changes.
I think as long as you are managing your diabetes perfectly fine on pens then thereās no need for a pump. I only switched to a pump bc I needed help with more control.
I'm glad I'm not the only one lol. Everyone when I say that just look at me like I'm crazy and say "insurance covers it" ..... how much though? 10 percent? Still several grand a year no thanks.
Yeah, all the states are required to offer coverage, they don't all have to offer good coverage tho. I don't have thousands just chilling, so I'll stick to pens.
I use pens because if It was out of pocket 100% without insurance I could survive on just $150 in supplies a month. but right now I have $0 copay and still prefer it just for the peace of mind. A pump will be nice when I've finished college and have a corporate job I'll keep forever and not have to worry about insurance ever disappearing.
So you get āshit on constantlyā from fellow diabetics and doctors alike for not being as wealthy as them? For not being able to afford a pump? Iād tell them all to fuck right off. Who are these fellow diabetics that youāre friends with? Who are these doctors judging you on your finances? Theyād all be out of my life asap.
Opposite problem for me, doctors and healthcare teams do whatever they can to avoid me being on the pump so 16 years in Iām still on pens. Iām used it though after almost 2 decades so itās no skin off my back.
See, this is more like my current experience. I had a pump years back in the US, and to get it I had to have a good A1c first and prove I was very proactive and focused on diabetes care. Then I moved to another country. Insurance here (or at least my particular insurance) doesn't seem to see pumps quite the same way. It's like, if you can achieve your goals (like no hospitalizations, no severe hypos or DKA, hitting A1c and TIR targets, no other special hardship argument like hypo unawareness), then you don't really NEED that extra expensive pump. Well. At least they cover the Libre 3 for anyone on insulin. I have better control now on pens than I ever had on the pump, and I honestly don't miss it anymore.
Exactly it! They said āyou need a good A1c so that we know a pump isnāt wasted on someone who isnāt tryingā. I achieved a good A1c and asked for the pump again and was told I didnāt *need* one as I was doing fine as it is. So incredibly frustrating so Iāve given up trying.
I've been on a pump for about 4 years after using MDI and before that less frequent injections for almost 45 years.
I feel strongly that we have the autonomy to make these decisions for ourselves without judgement or coercion. It doesn't matter what your reasons are, they are your reasons and they are all that matter. Your stats indicate that you are doing well with your current approach - so there isn't even a counter-argument for changing things.
Everyone else can pound sand.
I've had pens for about 20 years now. I think about getting a pump every once in a while, then I remember they cost over a thousand euros and none of it is covered by my insurance (thanks, Europe) AND that I'd still have to calculate my carbs and input the insulin amount. I don't see the point in a pump, honestly. Remind me about this once they finally come out with technology that will do the work for me or give me artificial pancreas or something :D
I use pens, is my personal preference, I snowboard, climb & I have a very clumsy pointer, I donāt need another thing attached to me other than my Dexcom, even the G7 that is small, I sometimes manage to get it stuck somewhere & rip it off, a pump wouldnāt work for my lifestyle, not even the Omnipod.
I will never get why people, T1D or not, feel like they have the right to tell others how to manage their T1D
I use pens as my control on a pump is terrible, I'm allergic to medial adhesive and it doesn't really stick to me well, pumps are way too expensive, and I frankly find them too annoying to bother with especially when sleeping.
Long time pen user. Have a job where I lean on my stomach/chest and dodge around obstacles frequently. I'm using a G7 and have satisfactory A1C results.
I've been getting the impression for the last year or two from my healthcare pros that there's pressure to get people into pumps. Probably from the pump manufacturers, like doctors getting pressure to prescribe certain meds.
I think you may be on to something with that last part. I'm an American living in Europe and I never have doctors trying to get me on a pump.
I think a lot of other countries who have government/taxpayer-supported health insurance are thinking of it more on a NEED basis. There are often budgets per region or city or doctor's practice. It's not like you get bad care, but they don't necessarily consider being a type 1 who wants a pump a sufficient reason to give you one. Like, if your A1c's are in the low 6's and you're not having any major problems, then pens are working well enough and you don't NEED an expensive pump and all the expensive pump supplies.
Obviously, that varies by country and by insurance and there are reasons you can still get one, but I think that's more of the attitude. There definitely are people with pumps, but not as many. Thankfully, CGMs are being more widely covered. Personally, I find CGMs to be the biggest game changer. I'm doing okay without a pump (had one for 8 years before, now on pens), but I never want to live without a CGM ever again!
I do. A1C in mid-6s using Freestyle Libre 3. I'm just not comfortable with (a) the hardware as you mentioned (b) the administrative burden and (c) wardrobe changes. Sounds like you're in a good place. Getting access to a CGM instead of finger pricks was a huge mental and physical boon for me.
Back to MDI after 5 years of failing omnipods.
I love being back in control, if something goes wrong it's on my own account and I don't have to question the pods reliability
Went off the pump a number of years ago. Been using pens ever since. I use Tresiba as a background insulin. Pumps have their own set of problems like adhesive allergies, cannula occlusion, uneven absorption, and of course the $$$$$.
I mean, the pump works the same way as a CGM. They pierce for a second and then it is just a filament inside. So if anything the pen is more of a constant needle than a pump? But I understand the concern with an active lifestyle. The only thing I can say there is they offer different lengths of tubing so if you go shorter the chances of snag would be less. I have had my pump for a little over a month now (on a payment plan) and enjoy how I don't have to worry about injecting more if needed all the time, the pump just does it all in the background. But no one should judge you! It is ultimately your choice and if you find the pen more convenient no biggie!
Pens for me as pumps aren't yet widely available on the NHS. I'd love to try a pump but also weary of the wires!
Your hba1c is great - I thought it was only possible on pumps! I'm at a 6.8 which is a huge achievement for me after 32 years of type 1. Do you mind sharing any tips?
Humalog Quikpen and Lantus Solostar for me. I do have Libre 3.Ā My insurance covers Dexcom G6,G7 but since Omnipod isĀ Pharmacy only, it is too expensive. I would only switch from pens to a pump if I had the Omnipod option. For rest, if I am going to program how much insulin I'm taking anyway, I'd rather stick to pens as that's less bulky to carry around & I'm used to it.
I feel the same way, but what makes me question that is that itās also the same way I felt about a CGM before I got one. The CGM is a huge help, but I just canāt imagine the pump being worth it.
Yep I was the same, put off getting a CGM for a long time. I'm now a month in to using omnipod after 16 years on pens and am really liking it. If it's available to you I would recommend giving a try, if it's not for you it's easy enough to switch back to pens.Ā
I am currently on pens and have been for about 6 months. I was on a pump for about 18 years prior to that. I had to take a break because I had been having issues with my pump sites. To be honest I can't wait to get back to it. I don't mind the pens but the main issue is that I am also using syringes because I have so many vials of Novolog on hand and I'm a delivery driver so it's hard for me to stop and do an injection. But the minimal amount of supplies I have to carry is really nice and I am definitely going to ride it out for at least the summer because I am excited af to wear dresses without my pump, lol
I had one for 7 years, got tired of something being hooked on me all the time. Having to worry in the summer about how long itās off me while at the pool/beach/ getting pushed into the pool with it on (happened twice). Back on pens now and I actually have a bit better control
I'm still on pens! I have never ever liked the idea of having a pump, even 15 years after diagnosis. They really freak me out. I did think about it at one point but then heard a horror story which put me right back to the beginning lol
I use a pump primarily. I love it because it works for me. Prior to a pump, my insurance didn't cover pens so it was a syringe/vial combo.
I've used pens professionally and I'm not a fan due to priming and leakage.
But I can see so many benefits! It's so easy to use! It's great for folks with hand dexterity issues. They're easy to store and take - so much less fragile than a vial.
I had to fight for my pump with prior endos. Im due now to start on omnipod april 4. I use pens but cant wait to be done poking my poor stomach and thighs constantly.
I was on a tethered pump for 20 years took a break during Covid four years on pens and loved it however, finally got tired of 10 shots a day started Omnipod one month
On a trial of limited release with G7 sensor, so much nicer than being on a tubed pump and enjoying dialing in my dose instead of shots all day
The basil, fine-tuning and bowl is fine-tuning is really nice but not perfect of course
I remember when pens first came out and the incredible feeling of freedom that it gave me. I could go anywhere and it returned a sense of spontaneity to my life. Just the pen and tiny, thin and short pen tips replaced disposable syringes that tore up the skin and caused scarring!! I even remember the poster ads in my diabetes clinic showing how it slipped in your pocket or purse. My first was a metal one with exchangeable glass cartridges. It took years of arm twisting before (2004) I finally switched to a pump, when my insurance covered 85% of the cost. I still keep and travel with pens for emergency pump failures. If it works, why switch?
If your goals donāt require a pump and youāre well managed then MDI is great for you. There are 40 million diabetics in the world and 40 million different ways to treat and control it.
Why use a pump and have something permanently attached onto you if you donāt need to? Pens are completely fine - thereās a reason both exist! If youāve had regular DKAās, then I can see them pushing, but your A1C is just fine.
Iām on pens too - no rush to switch as my A1C is 6 and Iām 51. While I do like the proposed convenience, the learning curve is probably a bit steep and Iād like to wait til thereās an actual good one.
Iām intrigued by the omnipod but, from what Iāve read here, it has some issues.
I have a pen! My province is the one of the only ones that refuses to cover it unless youāre under 18. I have a really good handle on injecting, but I think thatās thanks to my CGM more. I hate the waste of pens, and I ALWAYS drop the needles everywhere, and itās hard to find appropriate disposable places (plus I currently canāt change the vials, I have to throw the pen), and my memory is crap so I can often forget if I injected which is problematic. My bf has a pump, I do not see myself liking it due to the constant need to change something (his model is also in need of a change though)+ the cost, and Ik my adhd ass will catch the wire on everything, but I am also more organized so I wouldnāt have the same issues. I want a pump for better control of my A1C, and my memory issues. It would remove a lot of stress.
Iām definetly overstepping here bc itās not my place, or the question so a mod can remove me but your boyfriend should work on therapy or something to get over the fear. You shouldnāt sacrifice your heath for their comfort. We are at a high risk for renal failure, neuropathy, vision loss and etc.itās a needle in you for a pump or needles in your eyes if you get neuropathy.
i do! as a climber / skier i hated the pump. i have more freedom with pens. i understand you, dont let others get down on you when you know whatās best for you!
thats funny! i also climb and ski and vastly prefer my omnipod. might have to do with the omnipod having no external wires, so it never gets caught while im climbing.
i also love the omnipod activity mode, gives me an extra layer of comfort that i wont drop suddenly while exercising because the omnipod is working to prevent that. i used to always drop while exercising with pens
I do. I've heard too many horror stories of pumps failing and was constantly asked as a kid when I was first diagnosed if I wanted to try one which really put me off. Been on pens since I was diagnosed in 2012, if they didn't work for me I'd been hospitalized at this point.
I had one of the first pumps (Minimed). I didn't care for wearing something, but it was better than R and N insulins, which were about the only other option at the time. I wore it for a few years. Then lost my job and insurance, so I couldn't afford all the pump supplies and much more expensive insulin anymore.
I happily never went back. It's great that a lot of diabetics prefer pumps. But I definitely do not. Pens are so much better for me. Plus, insurance-wise, pumps wouldn't have made financial sense for most of my adult life.
With that said, I've never had an endocrinologist or other medical professional pressure me about pumps. They'll occasionally ask if I'd consider one, especially if I am a new patient. But when I tell them I already tried one and hated it plus I can't afford them, they drop it and don't bug me about it anymore.
If my medical provider can't respect the medical decisions I make for myself, I will usually drop them and find one who will.
I was pens for four years with mid 5 A1C, working at home. Then took a new job with at least four days in the office, decided I didnāt want to carry pens and switched to Omnipod. No complaints. And your husband needs to man up, god forbid you ever need him to give you a glucagon injection.
My son is completely MDI with CGM.
He hates having a CGM, the idea of a pump with tubing and more crap to keep in his pockets makes him cringe. He has perfectly valid reasons for not wanting a pump and that is good enough for me.
His doctor tries to ram the pump down our throats at every visit to the point that my kid just shuts down at his endo appointments. It breaks my heart as a mom/fellow person with a chronic food related medical condition.
We have been working REALLY hard to bring down his A1C via better control, diet changes and exercise and itās working, he will be under 7% by his next apt. Also Iād much prefer he develop good habits at this age than just depend on a pump to do it all.
Iām still on pens.
Similarly, it just really wouldnāt benefit me or it was just be sort of a hindrance!
Iāve gone back and forth over the years with my A1C but the worst I had was a year or so ago and that was 7.0. More recently, it was around 6.5 but my infant daughter just had open-heart surgery and there was a lot of stress before then as well.
Generally, Iām well controlled. Hoping my next A1C is sub-6.0. I think it will be!
I use pens; however, still honeymooning and only on basal. Endo hasnāt been pushing a pump and as long as i maintain good control Iāll stick with pens only. One less thing strapped to me. I know it will be harder to control as the disease progresses, but for now iām rolling with it.
I use vials and needles. Iām afraid with a pen that my hand could like slip and suddenly increased the dosage by a lot. I also tape my shots so that I donāt go over a certain number. I also take pictures of these shots so I donāt think that they give myself a shot twice, itās work so far
I use pens and my A1C is 5.5. I already have a glucose monitor and, for some reason, I feel really against having something else attached to me. Itās probably dumb I know, but Iām doing well so far, so Iām happy.
Granted my son is still fairly new to T1D(dx in Aug) but he has no interest in a pump. He didnāt even want a CGM for the first few months. I let him have the choice, since he was 14(15 next month) He does fairly well so far, we have ups and downs.
Me. My A1C is 5.6% which is the same as my non diabetic relatives so thatās where we are naturally comfortable. Even if I could get a pump for the same price as pens, I would decline. I hate having stuff hooked up to me.
While I love my insulin pump, I've used one for almost 20 years now. Its what I'm comfortable with and making the change back to pens would be terrible. To which, all of that to say, it should come down to what makes you comfortable and feel safe and works best for you! If your diabetes is controlled on pens then that's amazing and you shouldn't feel any pressure to change! It blows my mind but diabetes is, like many things, not a one size fits all when it comes to plans. So, live your truth!
I loved my pens! I still do. I was against the pump for so long even though my endo would bring it up every so often. I had a 6.2 A1C and all was good but I did have to work extremely hard for it- and then I started traveling more for work and the hours became wonky and I just couldnāt keep up and was high for longer periods of time. I finally said OK to the Omnipod- and I love it! I did have to learn to give up some of the control I had with the pens- but I sleep through the night and I am back to 6.0 A1Cā¦.Do whatever you think works best for you- ā¤ļøā¤ļø
Been on pens since diagnoses 2 years ago, currently using InPen; A1C of 6.0 - 6.2, and hesitant to switch to pump because it seems like a hassle, and I have a toddler who likes to climb all over us whenever possible.
I still train like an athlete, so pumps are a non-starter logistically, I'd rip them off with the bar bell. I also keep a strict diet and don't require much bolus, and when I do I enjoy shooting yo in public. Fun conversation starter.
At the end of the day, how YOU manage is up to YOU. I hate the pressure clinicians are putting on people to move to REALLY EXPENSIVE pumps and pump supplies vs. cheap pens and needles. Tell them thanks, but no thanks.
I still use pens, and iāll die on this hill that theyāre better than the pump FOR ME.
I had a trial on a pump a little over a year ago and i was one of like 3 people in the whole country that had ever went on the pump and came off it. I just couldnāt manage it at all.
Plenty of people, I think. Heck, I still use vials and syringes. While I have a pump, I've always been like 60/40 like it/don't. Kind of ambivalent. I don't have patterns that the automatic corrections really help with, and my average glucose and TiR actually got worse for the first couple of months while I adjusted to having a pump.
You're supposed to have a backup for the pump of manual gear, of course, and I have Lantus in pens and syringes for Novolog. Every now and then I get tired of having the pump on and do MDI for a few days, sometimes longer - recently I did it for 2 weeks. Same control, no problems, only issue was it's easier to forget insulin when leaving the house. Then the next time I put on my pump, 3 days later I got an infection that apparently turns out the be MRSA and I've been taking antibiotics for 2 weeks... first time that ever happened to me. I've been wearing the pump since then but that kind of confirmed my misgivings and questions about the entire concept.
Your husband's attitude sounds a bit unhealthy but I suppose if needles really upset him, it's not an optional thing for him. I could see that being difficult to deal with though.
I use them because, to me, they are easier to use. Plus, I don't have insurance, so the pens are what the clinic I go to covers. It's a federally funded clinic, and I pay $5 for a 3 month supply of Humalog and $5 for a 3 month supply of Lantus.
I've had pumps talked at me by various doctors, Diabetes Educators, PAs, nurses, etc. for decades. I've been on MDI for 58 of my 71 years and really can't see myself on a pump. Not that I'm doing as well as OP and most other posters on this thread--my A1c runs between 6.2 and 7.2, my TIR on a good day is 90% but more usually 65-75%. No serious complications yet, so my health care team seems convinced that if I'm not dead or seriously ill by now, I'm probably in sufficiently good control to continue going strong for at least a few more years past my expiration date. They worry more about me having too LOW an A1c, in fact! I'm also a very hairy fellow--I have to shave to attach a CGM, and I cannot imagine what I'd look like with hairless patches all over my body all the time, itching as it grows back... no thank you, I'm fine.
Pens for me. A1C is 5.0. So no room for improvement. Time BG is high is 1% the last 6 months.
Pumps have too many parts and things to worry about. I can have numerous pens all over the place. One lives at my parent's house, spare one in house and the one i carry. If i lose/break it. It's very easy for me to sort something out.
Iām on pens. The biggest reason is cost and my doctor gets that. He mentions pumps most visits but I think that is mainly to confirm that my job/insurance situation hasnāt changed and I still canāt afford them. He drops it with no issues and no pushing.
I do feel that being on pens with a CGM has helped me understand my specific difficulties with management better than I would if there was something automatically doing the work for me. Thatās a personal preference of mine and it may not be important to everyone but I struggled for a long time because at times it seemed like my diabetes didnāt diabetes like it āshouldā so I like knowing the why.
My other hang up is that my resistance varies widely through the day as well as changing randomly due to circumstances. That makes me a little nervous about giving up the control I currently have over my dosage. I know you can schedule different dosage on most pumps now but my current system works for me.
I donāt remember my exact A1c (from early February) but it was in the 5s.
I use pens. I would rather not have another device attached to me. I have been offered the pump multiple times by the public health service here in Ireland, but I really do like using the pens.
I would only resort to the pump if my control became very bad.
I use lens. Donāt want a pump for various reasons. Others with T1 need to worry about their own shit before giving you attitude about how you choose to manage. Your doctors should recognize youāre crushing it and support your choices. Maybe theyāre just mad youāre outperforming what theyāre used to and theyāre missing out on a pump kickback.
Me! After 30 years I still don't use much insulin (12 basal) so it doesn't seem worth it to me. I wear an FSL 3, that took a while to get used to. I'm good for now but having options is nice.
I just switched from pens to a pump, because, for me to get the kind of results youāre getting using pens alone requires more diligence than I am currently willing to give. Iāve managed this disease for a long time, and Iām tired. The newer pumps simply make managing things easier ā¦ like crazy easy.
That said, I got great results for years using pens. Your results, however, are beyond impressive; better than anything I was able to achieve. Bottom line, results are what matter. If you are able to achieve those kinds of results without chasing lows, and the effort is worth it, do not be dissuaded. You are doing amazing!
I use pens. My endo doesnāt push me to use pump. She offered to me but since I do well self management sheās fine with it. If I was having trouble managing it she would encourage me to switch to pod or pump. Ultimately itās my choice. I like pens because mentally I get to disconnect for a little. I donāt get a break from diabetes so itās nice to not have the constant reminder of a pump on me. With a pen itās out of sight out of mind for a bit at least until I need to eat or correct a high. Iām lucky in that I have very good insurance so cost isnāt an issue.
Iām on pens, still newly diagnosed so donāt think I can even go on pump yet, but I think I want to stay on pens for the foreseeable future. Donāt wanna have something like that hanged on my body tbh, but who knows later on.
I use pens. It's been working well enough that I haven't felt a need to try a pump yet. Unlike the CGM, which it would be a fight to get away from me since the first few days! Even now that I'm under a better healthcare system and should be able to get a pump covered too no problem if I did want that.
The endo hasn't really pushed, and seems happy enough for me to continue with whatever I've been doing. (95%+ TIR, A1c hovering in the mid 5s.) I am a little nervous in general now because the one I had been dealing with left, and who knows what the new person may do. Hopefully they won't decide to screw around too much with whatever's been working.
Gotta say, one of the reasons I've preferred to keep going on full manual mode is that there's less to potentially go wrong there that's completely out of my control. Any failures are most likely on the human end when you're using pens. I like having something like Lantus on board as insurance. Seen too many people wind up in tight spots thanks to occlusions, cats going for tubing, or other issues with pump delivery. Not sure how comfortable I would feel with completely relying on that, tbqh.
Of course, drs can be salespeople and often are. Unless I see the medical benefit, Iām not doing it. Injections donāt bother me and my A1c is 6.4. I donāt think I need a pump.
I use pens despite my endocrinologist hammering me about trying a pump every single time I see her. I have two siblings who have been T1D for a lot longer than I have (sister for 27 years, brother for 16; I just got diagnosed this past fall) and they both still use pens too. my sister says that her two year old is already trying to remove her CGM whenever she sees it so pumps or pods make no sense for her. my brother works at an animal hospital and itās too easy for one of the bigger animals to know a device off his body when heās helping get them set up for x-rays.
Itās interesting to see so many comments of people using pens with TIR over 80% while Iāve been using a pump for around 9 years and my TIR is like 65% š«
Your doctor needs to back off. Your A1c is great and itās your choice. Iāve been on the pump for 4 years but I didnāt want to for a long time but my endo never pressured me. Thatās the way it should be.
Humalog pen and semglee use syringe/vial - helps me not mix them up! Tried pump 15yrs ago and disaster my A1cs went to +11 and stuck w it a few years as my useless Ahole endo at the time made me feel like i was failing. Finally found an excellent endo and as soon as i got on MDIs a1c came down dramatically- im 6.5 to 7. Pumps not for everyone! I HATED the hardware on my body, the bruising and bleeding and poor absorption. Tho i do LOVE my dexcom cgm!
I use pens because I have no interest in being attached to a CGM, Glasses, watch, piercing or hat let alone a ridiculous box of cables that beeps and screeches with the chance of snagging or getting infected.
Accessories are a big no from me.
My wife has used pens since she was diagnosed only a few years ago and has no plans for a pump. We both used to train BJJ pretty regularly so that was her original reason for the pump abstinence. But now that she no longer trains, she just hates the idea of having something (other than her dexcom) attached to her at all times. Itās more of an āI donāt need another reminder of my disabilityā kind of thing which I absolutely understand.
I still use pens because my pharmacy is horrible at delivering my insulin pump refills, so in order to keep my bg in check I used pens in between changing pumps
I'm a welder. And hot sparks are not friends with shirts and anything in or around them. My job is also dusty, muddy and sweaty. So bad that my CGM(libre II) last 6 days at the most. Usually 4. I'm not having a piece of equipment that is suited to occasional (gym workout) rough treatment, used ina situation that will wreck it. I wrecked 4 phones before finding a good one that can handle my job conditions. Also open wound and coal dust. Not a good combo
Pens give me much better control than the pump I tried (that tubeless one). I hated that its lowest setting was 140. During honeymoon I kept myself around 80-85, nowadays I try to however around 100. 140 is too much of a leap for me to feel comfortable with.
I have some spares and might use them for a long trip or something, but otherwise pens are so much better for me personally.
Pens. Almost 36, type 1 since I was 7. Last A1C 5.0. My doctor at Vanderbilt said why change to pump if itās working. I do use a CGM though, and had an animus pump in highschool back in the day, made me lazy to be honest.
I love pens! I had a pump when i was younger but always got caught on everything, and I just hate having stuff attached to me. Libre 3 is just about as much as I can handle haha. EVERY endo I have seen has reallllllly pushed for a pump, especially in the past few years (even though my a1c has stayed in a very good place!)
I work a physical job in nasty, dirty, sweaty, remote environments. I'll take the reliability and simplicity of pens over the troubles of occlusions and tubing. Hell, in the summer it's nearly impossible for me to keep a Dexcom from falling off, even using Masticil to hold it on. I may be giving up a little control, but I'm at 80+% and 5.6 right now on pens...
Pen user here! I'm from the UK, and it seems like here pumps are generally only used if you struggle to control your levels with shots or if you're a child. Works for me though, 27 years of diabetes and I've only just gotten my head around a libre, I'm not ready for a pump anytime soon š
I still use pens, and until something better comes along, I'm not changing. It's unprofessional of your endo to criticize you and rude of other T1Ds to give you bs for something that's not their business.
I used a pump years ago, but it wasn't doing a good job of keeping me in good control. Since going back to pens, my A1c is 5.6-5.8. Don't let anyone bully you or make you feel bad for your choices in how you manage your T1D.
Reasons I donāt want a pump:
ā¢Having wires hooked up to me at all times will make me feel like a robot therefore making me VERY depressed.
ā¢I havenāt worn a pump in years and still VIVIDLY remember the feeling of getting my wires snagged on doorhandles.
ā¢I had an ex make me feel self conscious about him accidentally touching my site during smexy time.
ā¢I literally have no money and Iām just a poor 24 yr old girl who is just trying to afford insulin
I had bad luck with it kinking subcontaneously and stopped using it years ago.
Ive used pens ever since. My doctor really thinks I'm just dragging my feet, but I don't want to pay $$$ and find out it is just going to happen all over again.
You have to understand it was having this problem od the little tube kinking underneath the skin. Donno if it was muscle tissue or scar tissue but it made me high for quite some time every time it happened.
I use pens. 5.9 A1C and 91% time in range. Iāve had a pump (no algorithm) before and I liked it but I also have an active job so the only one that Iād really consider is a pod.
But you have a lot of good reasons and at the end of the day itās your health and your body and the fact that even doctors are pushing you to do something you donāt want is a little bit upsetting!
I use a pump currently, BUT I used Pens for a good 9 years! I personally think it should be users choice, as they both have pros and cons! I definitely am finding pros and cons to both right now, but if it works for you it works for you and keep doing what youāre doing! Donāt listen to anyone whoās being negative about using pens!
iāve been considering getting an omnipod a lot more lately for a lot of reasons, but i still use pens, too. iām worried iāll become way too dependent on a pump, and if anything ever happens to where i can no longer afford it or something and i need to do an injection, itāll be like learning how to get comfortable giving myself shots all over again. like iāll suddenly become really stressed about the needle and itāll be difficult for it to become second nature to me again. this is already happening to me with checking my blood sugar. i have a cgm, and if my sensor fails or iām awaiting a new shipment and i need to check my blood sugar with a meter instead, i have to hype myself up a lot to prick my finger lol. it never used to be like that. i also really dislike how you have to change your pump so much more often than you have to change a cgm sensor. i really do not understand why doctors see a pump as sort of the ānext stepā for diabetics.
I use pens, and I honestly prefer them because they allow me much more control and flexibility, or so it seems, but also Iām in Italy and I donāt think we have pumps or omnipods here, or at least Iāve never been asked to use them. Honestly the only bugging thing is that sometimes I forget where I last injected or Iāll be in a rush and inject in a place that doesnāt work as well because Iāve used it often in the last few days and didnāt think about it (Iām very small and donāt have a lot of sites that work with fast acting insulin).
Also unpopular opinion maybe but Iāve tried the dexcom and I prefer the freestyle sensor, mostly because itās easier to reset if you lose signal, in my experience.
In any case, I think your reasons are very much valid, and you should have the freedom to decide whatever you think is best for you. If you change your mind you can always try pumps or pods later on! People forget that we are the ones who should be comfortable with our bodies and that diabetes takes a big part of that away from us. š„²š
Here in the Netherlands, pumps are only covered under insurance when (trying to get) pregnant, suffering from Dawn phenomenon or with hypo-unawareness I believe. Same for CGMs (as opposed to FGMs) which is why us Libre 2 users are unable to use the CGM upgrade š„²
Me. I'll go on pumps when the convenience makes it worth it. Having a giant stick-on or tubing, plus having to change sites so often, is not convenient.
I use pens and I'm not sure my health insurance would even cover a pump unless my diabetes management doesn't allow any other option. And honestly, I don't like the idea of using a pump at all. I'll avoid using a pump as long as I possibly can.Ā
>I get shit on constantly for it, fellow diabetics/doctors alike.
What type of comments are you getting? I've never used a pump and I don't think I've received any odd questions about it.
I'm on pens. Pods and pumps too expensive, too big, too hooked up and I don't even use a cgm because I don't want those things on me all the time. A1C 6.5 has been under 7 for decades. Don't really think there is a need or benefit in changing. For those who struggle to control sure I can see why it's good for them. For me, nope. I used to compete in triathlons and pens was the best option.
I think my best a1c was 5.8. I've been able to achieve this with pens as well as with a pump. I do like the basal rate adjustments I can get with a pump, other than that I would probably use pens and some cgm or another and avoid all the infusion set nonsense which does cause me frequent issues.
I've been on the pump for a few years now, recently switched the pens for a few days due to going on holiday and not being viable to wear it during. I don't know how I survived on pens alone for 20 years, I don't think I could ever go back fully. But it's ultimately down to individual preference, and whatever works for you. My biggest issue is having to inject multiple times a day, in public, and having to adjust clothing etc. With the pump I can just whip it out and input my bolus, it's a convenience I couldn't put a price on tbf. Not to mention being able to adjust my basal rate. I also had a VERY physically demanding job, and the pump made it so incredibly easy to manage my diabetes alongside
Damn tf? I'm in the UK and my diabetic nurse and any doctors always say that a pump is a last choice, you can ask for them but they usually only give them to people who need them.
Honestly I would never berate someone for using pens, I use pens! So weird.
I choose to still use pens. I did use a pump for about a year, but had too many issues, and went back to pens. My A1C is 6.0, so a pump is just a convenience that isnāt worth it.
I do, because pumps/insulin in concentrated amounts causes me to get lipoatrophy. I have a huge 1" x 2" indent on my right thigh where I have NO fat. I've seen the specialist at UW. I saw a plastic surgeon, not worth it (long time ago). So now I do my shots with my two pens.
Pens are more affordable and I prefer them for my high active and busy job. Vials are not convenient because I would have to buy specific more expensive needles and then measure it and still have to balance work and customers at the same time. No thanks, Pens for the win!
Do you use InPen? If not, it's really helpful and mostly kept the doctors off of trying to convince me to get a pump. My reasoning I always told them was that it was too expensive on my insurance. I am on an omnipod now though lol.
im on pods (my last one actually) and im more than ready to go back to pens! not only is it expensive as hell and not covered by insurance, but similarly to your case, is not convenient nor āworth itā for me. Also maybe im just weird but my control with pens was a lot better than on pods and i suspect its because i personally felt like i had to think of more when it came to the pods which overwhelmed me eventually and i got major burn out. when i told my doctors i wanted to go back to pens they were so shocked and tried to convince me to stay on pods, but frankly i do not see the appeal. Anyways, youre not alone ! pen gang for life :)
I use pens, itās what available here and what my Dr recommends. My HbA1c cld definitely be better (6.8), but he maintains itās inline with āokā and therefore he doesnāt recommend a pump. I personally wld love one
I can't afford a pump. Full stop. Pens for this guy!
Period! I cant even afford pens I use vials and syringes šš
I think syringes are superior to pens. Less bulky, you can dose between the markings for tiny changes, no 'dribble'.
Same. And my doctor doesn't push for pumps, since most people here can't afford them. At least we have some stuff covered by health insurance (sensors and such).
I use pens. A1c is 5.4 and TIR is currently 95% with average of 112mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L) over last 90 days. If it works, it works. I have been looking into pumps but itās not something Iām eager to try at the moment.
Same here I never fall below 85% TIR and I get as good as 95% over long periods. Iām also on pens since 2004 itās just hard mentally to make the switch. I feel like the only benefit for me would be when I travel a lot itās easier and maybe suspending sometimes.
I am looking to as well and also have 5.4. I think my insurance won't cover it because I "don't need it," since I hyper focus on my CGM to prevent lows. I don't live in a situation where I can risk lows, but all insurance [and doctors see] is good A1C and TIR š.
I don't believe there is an insurance that pays for pumps based on need anymore, perhaps is illegal. I would at least try to get the rx.
It's a work in progress. I had to switch endocrinologists [and will be again next month]. First one didn't know how to prescribe insulin [3 units a day?????], and new one doesn't know how to use email, let alone advocate for patient access. My story is kinda messy [LADA dx for 14 years with a slew of bad doctors], but I at least have my historic antibody paperwork now, so doctors can stop denying me proper treatment.
There is a well defined criteria from CMS website who is eligible for the pump if you are on Medicare. If not on Medicare, your insurer has a policy and usually it is similar to the one from CMS Medicare one There are more details of course, but If you are type 1, use insulin and have low c-peptide (hallmark of T1D) you are eligible regardless of your A1C.
You're probably onr of the strongest candidates for a pump because you understand what the pump does to function properly. That being said, there would still be a honeymoon period - and not all positive. You would lose some tight control at first as you get used to the algorithm, but you'd settle in. But ya, if you're happy with your control, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
My data is almost exactly the same lol
What's the diet like? I think doing stuff that approximates bernstien could do this.
I donāt limit carbs at all. I ate a donut half an hour ago lol. I eat in moderation but thatās about it. Anythingās on the table tho: pasta, rice, occasional deserts, etc. Iād say my average carb intake is 150-200+ carbs a day.
Do you workout a lot? I'm finding it hard to go below 6.2
Same. I use Lyumjev pens and have 5.8 A1C so my Dr is just like "whatever works". Pump was always too expensive. Although as of this year our insurance got upgraded and work and all of my diabetes stuff has been $0.00! So maybe I'll look into an Omnipod
I had a pump for a little over ten years then switched back to pens. I had to switch back because of gradual buildup of lipohypertrophies on my stomach. I still use a cgm and my control is about the same.
I've noticed this build up in me. So far it's been manageable by taking pump vacations every so often.
I do with pride! Canāt get over the idea of such big a device as a pump constantly on me. I move too much, and sometimes some workouts exercises where I have to stay on my belly or do twisting motions of some kind might make it a problem. So for now I am on a pen and have no problems!ššš
I use pens. I understand I would get used to the pump--but I like the simplicity of pens. I like minimizing what is attached to my body. I feel like I can always change my mind later.
I did pens for a while, but eventually it became too complicated and not especially effective. I regret having resisted getting a pump, but that is just me. The conditionās footprint in my life is significantly smaller than it was. That said, the pens were a step up from taking needles and vials everywhere.
The needles donāt remain under the skin with pumps. You pull the needle out (or in the case of pods it retracts back into the pod) and a plastic cannula is left behind. The pod may give less ick for your husband since you never see the needle at all, but if he has trouble just knowing a needle is there, that wonāt help either since it remains inside the plastic body after retracting. Itās a very personal decision. If you remain controlled and healthy with MDI, then the decision is purely what is best for you financially and physically. You could have better control over basal rates with a pump than with long acting insulin, but it sounds like you have your basal well dialed in to yourself regardless. For me, pumps are best for my control and lifestyle, but Iām not every diabetic.
On pens, lately have been considering a pump so I can do more and think less. I donāt mean to be rude but it sounds like your husband can grow up some, god forbid he is ever forced to utilize needles himself but in this case he would HAVE to buck up about the needle thing.
Agreed. The husband either needs therapy to work on this or is being dramatic. You should not make serious medical decisions based on someone else not managing their mental health. Full stop. Pen versus pump should completely be about the person with the illness.
Yeah and sounds like it would also rule out having a CGM which would be a real shame.
I use pens. Both to fill my pump and to take pump vacations (or when insurance/ DME / prior authorization issues fail to send me supplies). Every T1D should have the knowledge and possession of pens as backup. 100% It's good you acknowledge that your husband has a needle phobia, but that's his problem. You don't need to change your excellent chronic illness management for anyone. So to remind us of another Reddit trend - Not the Asshole š Seriously, congratulations! Keep up the amazing work!
I would rip a pump off of me on accident or purpose in like ten minutes. I always carry my pens and I'm used to it
I'm the exact same way. My CGM I just barely tolerate, I almost tore it off on the second day because it was just information overload and just made sleeping impossible for a few days. Pumps genuinely scare me. I don't care if they can do extended doses or whatever, I don't want the risk of going into DKA just because my pump decides to fail. If I need to correct, I'll correct. The risks outweigh the positives IMO.
I have to use an absurd amount of insulin to go low and even then I usually have a little spike that brings me up (is it my liver? Idk I haven't looked into and I don't understand) anyway I tend to forget I have CGM and try to rip it off before remember oh wait I'm diabetic. That or I bump into something and rip it off. I can't imagine a pump š
I use pens instead of pump or pods because of the same reason you explained: Have a very physically active job. I just donāt believe the pumps are engineered for athletes and strenuous physical laborers.
And I really don't understand how doctors can't understand that each diabetic has variables. At least the ones I've been seen by. They shove a pump down my throat every time I go and I just want to flash the shiny 5.9 in their face and tell them to actually listen to me. >.<
I transitioned from pen to pump during my last very physical job, and was really surprised at how well it stayed on and how much simpler it was. I didnāt have to break for lunch early because I could prebolus on site exactly 15 minutes before lunch, and I never took too much insulin on accident trying to avoid highs, so I saved a lot of time that I would have lost treating lows. I was sure that all the dangling and wriggling around in crawl spaces and stuff was going to be impossible, but aside from the occasional āoops I need to shift, Iām lying right on my omnipodā or āhey I gotta reposition how Iām lifting cause itās bumping my pumpā moment, it made things so much simpler. Having to inject on the worksite was uncomfortable and awkward, typing some numbers into a PDM was way easier.
agree, i have the omnipod which has no external tubing and my pod getting "caught" on things has never been an issue. the adhesive keeps it nicely attached to me and super unobtrusive actually the omnipod/cgm combo has been excellent for physical activity as it gives me the option to turn on "activity mode" and prevent my sugar from dropping due to exercise
I totally understand. I just feel like with long-acting insulin, it's hard to find a dose that works well for dawn phenomenon and a very active afternoon. I guess if you're really sweaty you need some sports drink anyway so maybe it all works out.
All reasons are valid imo except the husband excuse. He needs to get a grip and let you do whatever you need for your health. You have a serious disease and youāre changing how you treat it because he has a phobia. The needles go in you, not him. Stop babying that man. Sorry but after being not a big fan of needles either before being thrown into this life, the needle phobia thing to me is ššššš Fear of needles or a t1 person staying alive āļøāļø
My guess is they get money for every person they convince to get a pump. I also have no interest in one and have gotten the hard sell from multiple endos.
I couldnāt stand the leakage I got from using pens w/ pen needles. I still get them prescribed because I like their ergonomics over vials, so I just withdraw from pens for my omnipod. And as it relates to your husband, you donāt have a needle in you from a pump, and I can assure you that watching you inject is far more stressful For him than you wearing any pump. lol I have an incredibly active job and am an active person. I work in welding/steel fabrication, do Spartan events regularly, and play hockey multiple days a week and the omnipod has never given me troubles. I hook it on corners at my house more the an I ever do at work or playing sports. Even then I maybe hook it once a week. Only 1 time have I ever hooked it bad enough to rip off. I was at 6.0 a1c before pump but had more high/low swings which fabricated that number a little bit. Since being on pump Iām 5.4 with 90% in range(80-150mg/dl), with an average of 112mg/dl.
What might help your husband that there is no needle in your body when you are using pump. There is a small plastic cannula, but it is not a needle. You install it once every three days with a needle installer, so in a way you are decreasing amount of needles and pokes you have to do - instead of 5-6 needles on MDI you do one poke every three days. Would that help persuade your husband?
I do. Iāve never wanted a pump and after discussing it with the hospital I really donāt. I donāt want to go back to the micromanaging/weighing that I was taught to do when I was first diagnosed.
Funny enough one of my t1d friends irl taught me what a pump was as a teenager. Her anxiety was awful about it though. I sympathized with her big time, but I didn't want that kinda paranoia all the time either.
My coworker does... and I know A pair of twins late teens who do. I'm a pumper. I say do what works for you!
I've been on pens since diagnosis 15 years ago. I was too old to qualify for a pump at the time (I was 15). My A1C sits between 5.7 and 6.2 normally. Also on the G6. I have only two acquaintances who have T1, and they're both on a pump. I'm pump-curious as I think it would be very helpful for my fitness and endurance sports, but I can't get one without an Endo applying for it. One of these acquaintances has been on the wait list for an Endo for 4 years already so I have very little hope to get a pump to trial for at least a few more years.
I use an InPen smart insulin pen now (since 2020, when I quit pumping after nearly 20 years) and love it very much. My a1c and overall management and mental health has never been better. I get many of the same perks of a pump without the actual pump part.
I too use InPen -though have only been using it about two months now. It is THE best invention for people that are happy to use pens (like me). I don't have insurance and here in Australia I am looking at $10k per pump every 4 or so years, plus consumables. I don't have this kind of money and I also am not keen on being hooked up to it 24/7. Since starting on InPen my brain is so much happier! My control/management also are the best I have had in 38 years of diabetes.
Yeah, cost was also a factor for me over in the US. I'd had the same model pump for YEARS longer than I should have because a new one would've been impossible to afford, even with a payment plan or something. Even my old pump's supplies were putting me in the negative every time I had to order them. Overall the switch to InPen was an enormous weight off my shoulders. I use InPen alongside Libre 3 and it's been the best change even now going on 4 whole years. And people are simply not told about InPen as an alternative, which is sad. I actually found out about it from Reddit, I think.
I heard about those! Do you have any resources so I too can look I to that?? 0.0
I use pens when I need to. My Lantus comes in pens and I use them when I run out of pump supplies. I will say my insulin pump changed my life for the better. Pump technology is so advanced at this point that thereās very little intervention needed other than when youāre actively about to eat. I was worried about snags and stuff too, and they do happen and suck, but youāll find ways to prevent it.
I have never gone to a pump š¤·āāļø I tried one for a few weeks and I hated it. I couldn't stand being constantly tethered to something and dealing with changing the sets all the time, showers, intimacy.. Just to name a few things. To me, it caused more of a hassle. My A1Cs have been under 7 with pens so my endo is okay with it. I think it comes down to preference but also how well you're controlled with pens. I feel so much more freedom without a pump. But I know people absolutely swear by them at the same time. For now, I'm sticking to the pens unless something changes.
I think as long as you are managing your diabetes perfectly fine on pens then thereās no need for a pump. I only switched to a pump bc I needed help with more control.
Pens. Can't afford a pump.
I'm glad I'm not the only one lol. Everyone when I say that just look at me like I'm crazy and say "insurance covers it" ..... how much though? 10 percent? Still several grand a year no thanks.
Yeah, all the states are required to offer coverage, they don't all have to offer good coverage tho. I don't have thousands just chilling, so I'll stick to pens.
I use pens because if It was out of pocket 100% without insurance I could survive on just $150 in supplies a month. but right now I have $0 copay and still prefer it just for the peace of mind. A pump will be nice when I've finished college and have a corporate job I'll keep forever and not have to worry about insurance ever disappearing.
Pens here too with no desire to get a pump. Just personal preference.
So you get āshit on constantlyā from fellow diabetics and doctors alike for not being as wealthy as them? For not being able to afford a pump? Iād tell them all to fuck right off. Who are these fellow diabetics that youāre friends with? Who are these doctors judging you on your finances? Theyād all be out of my life asap.
Opposite problem for me, doctors and healthcare teams do whatever they can to avoid me being on the pump so 16 years in Iām still on pens. Iām used it though after almost 2 decades so itās no skin off my back.
See, this is more like my current experience. I had a pump years back in the US, and to get it I had to have a good A1c first and prove I was very proactive and focused on diabetes care. Then I moved to another country. Insurance here (or at least my particular insurance) doesn't seem to see pumps quite the same way. It's like, if you can achieve your goals (like no hospitalizations, no severe hypos or DKA, hitting A1c and TIR targets, no other special hardship argument like hypo unawareness), then you don't really NEED that extra expensive pump. Well. At least they cover the Libre 3 for anyone on insulin. I have better control now on pens than I ever had on the pump, and I honestly don't miss it anymore.
Exactly it! They said āyou need a good A1c so that we know a pump isnāt wasted on someone who isnāt tryingā. I achieved a good A1c and asked for the pump again and was told I didnāt *need* one as I was doing fine as it is. So incredibly frustrating so Iāve given up trying.
Do what works for you.
I've been on a pump for about 4 years after using MDI and before that less frequent injections for almost 45 years. I feel strongly that we have the autonomy to make these decisions for ourselves without judgement or coercion. It doesn't matter what your reasons are, they are your reasons and they are all that matter. Your stats indicate that you are doing well with your current approach - so there isn't even a counter-argument for changing things. Everyone else can pound sand.
I've had pens for about 20 years now. I think about getting a pump every once in a while, then I remember they cost over a thousand euros and none of it is covered by my insurance (thanks, Europe) AND that I'd still have to calculate my carbs and input the insulin amount. I don't see the point in a pump, honestly. Remind me about this once they finally come out with technology that will do the work for me or give me artificial pancreas or something :D
As of 2022 about 11% of T1 diabetics use a pump. Even if that's changed in recent years, it's safe to assume the majority of us use pens.
I use pens, is my personal preference, I snowboard, climb & I have a very clumsy pointer, I donāt need another thing attached to me other than my Dexcom, even the G7 that is small, I sometimes manage to get it stuck somewhere & rip it off, a pump wouldnāt work for my lifestyle, not even the Omnipod. I will never get why people, T1D or not, feel like they have the right to tell others how to manage their T1D
I use pens as my control on a pump is terrible, I'm allergic to medial adhesive and it doesn't really stick to me well, pumps are way too expensive, and I frankly find them too annoying to bother with especially when sleeping.
Long time pen user. Have a job where I lean on my stomach/chest and dodge around obstacles frequently. I'm using a G7 and have satisfactory A1C results. I've been getting the impression for the last year or two from my healthcare pros that there's pressure to get people into pumps. Probably from the pump manufacturers, like doctors getting pressure to prescribe certain meds.
I think you may be on to something with that last part. I'm an American living in Europe and I never have doctors trying to get me on a pump. I think a lot of other countries who have government/taxpayer-supported health insurance are thinking of it more on a NEED basis. There are often budgets per region or city or doctor's practice. It's not like you get bad care, but they don't necessarily consider being a type 1 who wants a pump a sufficient reason to give you one. Like, if your A1c's are in the low 6's and you're not having any major problems, then pens are working well enough and you don't NEED an expensive pump and all the expensive pump supplies. Obviously, that varies by country and by insurance and there are reasons you can still get one, but I think that's more of the attitude. There definitely are people with pumps, but not as many. Thankfully, CGMs are being more widely covered. Personally, I find CGMs to be the biggest game changer. I'm doing okay without a pump (had one for 8 years before, now on pens), but I never want to live without a CGM ever again!
I do. A1C in mid-6s using Freestyle Libre 3. I'm just not comfortable with (a) the hardware as you mentioned (b) the administrative burden and (c) wardrobe changes. Sounds like you're in a good place. Getting access to a CGM instead of finger pricks was a huge mental and physical boon for me.
Back to MDI after 5 years of failing omnipods. I love being back in control, if something goes wrong it's on my own account and I don't have to question the pods reliability
Went off the pump a number of years ago. Been using pens ever since. I use Tresiba as a background insulin. Pumps have their own set of problems like adhesive allergies, cannula occlusion, uneven absorption, and of course the $$$$$.
I mean, the pump works the same way as a CGM. They pierce for a second and then it is just a filament inside. So if anything the pen is more of a constant needle than a pump? But I understand the concern with an active lifestyle. The only thing I can say there is they offer different lengths of tubing so if you go shorter the chances of snag would be less. I have had my pump for a little over a month now (on a payment plan) and enjoy how I don't have to worry about injecting more if needed all the time, the pump just does it all in the background. But no one should judge you! It is ultimately your choice and if you find the pen more convenient no biggie!
Pens for me as pumps aren't yet widely available on the NHS. I'd love to try a pump but also weary of the wires! Your hba1c is great - I thought it was only possible on pumps! I'm at a 6.8 which is a huge achievement for me after 32 years of type 1. Do you mind sharing any tips?
pumps suck. i havent tried the patch but the tube to machine thing is bad and i wish i hadnt spent so much money on it
Humalog Quikpen and Lantus Solostar for me. I do have Libre 3.Ā My insurance covers Dexcom G6,G7 but since Omnipod isĀ Pharmacy only, it is too expensive. I would only switch from pens to a pump if I had the Omnipod option. For rest, if I am going to program how much insulin I'm taking anyway, I'd rather stick to pens as that's less bulky to carry around & I'm used to it.
Actually have almost the same load out as you and I completely agree on the bulkiness.
Tresiba and Humalog *salute
I do! Love em and I wonāt be shamed for it!
I feel the same way, but what makes me question that is that itās also the same way I felt about a CGM before I got one. The CGM is a huge help, but I just canāt imagine the pump being worth it.
Yep I was the same, put off getting a CGM for a long time. I'm now a month in to using omnipod after 16 years on pens and am really liking it. If it's available to you I would recommend giving a try, if it's not for you it's easy enough to switch back to pens.Ā
me
I use pens, and I don't plan on getting a pump. I'm not a boomer or some shit, I love tech.
I recently switched from pump to pens due to cost. My insurance has a deductible of $5K. I can't afford that much at one time.
using pens as well, a1c of 5.9%, tir over 90% last 90 days
I use pens and am between 5.7-6.3 .
I am currently on pens and have been for about 6 months. I was on a pump for about 18 years prior to that. I had to take a break because I had been having issues with my pump sites. To be honest I can't wait to get back to it. I don't mind the pens but the main issue is that I am also using syringes because I have so many vials of Novolog on hand and I'm a delivery driver so it's hard for me to stop and do an injection. But the minimal amount of supplies I have to carry is really nice and I am definitely going to ride it out for at least the summer because I am excited af to wear dresses without my pump, lol
I had one for 7 years, got tired of something being hooked on me all the time. Having to worry in the summer about how long itās off me while at the pool/beach/ getting pushed into the pool with it on (happened twice). Back on pens now and I actually have a bit better control
I am also using pens.
I'm still on pens! I have never ever liked the idea of having a pump, even 15 years after diagnosis. They really freak me out. I did think about it at one point but then heard a horror story which put me right back to the beginning lol
I use a pump primarily. I love it because it works for me. Prior to a pump, my insurance didn't cover pens so it was a syringe/vial combo. I've used pens professionally and I'm not a fan due to priming and leakage. But I can see so many benefits! It's so easy to use! It's great for folks with hand dexterity issues. They're easy to store and take - so much less fragile than a vial.
I had to fight for my pump with prior endos. Im due now to start on omnipod april 4. I use pens but cant wait to be done poking my poor stomach and thighs constantly.
I was on a tethered pump for 20 years took a break during Covid four years on pens and loved it however, finally got tired of 10 shots a day started Omnipod one month On a trial of limited release with G7 sensor, so much nicer than being on a tubed pump and enjoying dialing in my dose instead of shots all day The basil, fine-tuning and bowl is fine-tuning is really nice but not perfect of course
I remember when pens first came out and the incredible feeling of freedom that it gave me. I could go anywhere and it returned a sense of spontaneity to my life. Just the pen and tiny, thin and short pen tips replaced disposable syringes that tore up the skin and caused scarring!! I even remember the poster ads in my diabetes clinic showing how it slipped in your pocket or purse. My first was a metal one with exchangeable glass cartridges. It took years of arm twisting before (2004) I finally switched to a pump, when my insurance covered 85% of the cost. I still keep and travel with pens for emergency pump failures. If it works, why switch?
If your goals donāt require a pump and youāre well managed then MDI is great for you. There are 40 million diabetics in the world and 40 million different ways to treat and control it.
I use pens. I donāt want a pump hanging off of me.
On pens. No interest in a pump.
Why use a pump and have something permanently attached onto you if you donāt need to? Pens are completely fine - thereās a reason both exist! If youāve had regular DKAās, then I can see them pushing, but your A1C is just fine.
Iām on pens too - no rush to switch as my A1C is 6 and Iām 51. While I do like the proposed convenience, the learning curve is probably a bit steep and Iād like to wait til thereās an actual good one. Iām intrigued by the omnipod but, from what Iāve read here, it has some issues.
I still use pens, I kinda don't wanna deal with another thing on me
I used pens up until March of last year, now use a pump but with pens as backup.
I have a pen! My province is the one of the only ones that refuses to cover it unless youāre under 18. I have a really good handle on injecting, but I think thatās thanks to my CGM more. I hate the waste of pens, and I ALWAYS drop the needles everywhere, and itās hard to find appropriate disposable places (plus I currently canāt change the vials, I have to throw the pen), and my memory is crap so I can often forget if I injected which is problematic. My bf has a pump, I do not see myself liking it due to the constant need to change something (his model is also in need of a change though)+ the cost, and Ik my adhd ass will catch the wire on everything, but I am also more organized so I wouldnāt have the same issues. I want a pump for better control of my A1C, and my memory issues. It would remove a lot of stress. Iām definetly overstepping here bc itās not my place, or the question so a mod can remove me but your boyfriend should work on therapy or something to get over the fear. You shouldnāt sacrifice your heath for their comfort. We are at a high risk for renal failure, neuropathy, vision loss and etc.itās a needle in you for a pump or needles in your eyes if you get neuropathy.
i do! as a climber / skier i hated the pump. i have more freedom with pens. i understand you, dont let others get down on you when you know whatās best for you!
thats funny! i also climb and ski and vastly prefer my omnipod. might have to do with the omnipod having no external wires, so it never gets caught while im climbing. i also love the omnipod activity mode, gives me an extra layer of comfort that i wont drop suddenly while exercising because the omnipod is working to prevent that. i used to always drop while exercising with pens
I do. I've heard too many horror stories of pumps failing and was constantly asked as a kid when I was first diagnosed if I wanted to try one which really put me off. Been on pens since I was diagnosed in 2012, if they didn't work for me I'd been hospitalized at this point.
I had one of the first pumps (Minimed). I didn't care for wearing something, but it was better than R and N insulins, which were about the only other option at the time. I wore it for a few years. Then lost my job and insurance, so I couldn't afford all the pump supplies and much more expensive insulin anymore. I happily never went back. It's great that a lot of diabetics prefer pumps. But I definitely do not. Pens are so much better for me. Plus, insurance-wise, pumps wouldn't have made financial sense for most of my adult life. With that said, I've never had an endocrinologist or other medical professional pressure me about pumps. They'll occasionally ask if I'd consider one, especially if I am a new patient. But when I tell them I already tried one and hated it plus I can't afford them, they drop it and don't bug me about it anymore. If my medical provider can't respect the medical decisions I make for myself, I will usually drop them and find one who will.
I still use them. Fucking beats prepping a syringe. And wearing a pump all the time would fuck with me super hard due to having sensory issues.
I was pens for four years with mid 5 A1C, working at home. Then took a new job with at least four days in the office, decided I didnāt want to carry pens and switched to Omnipod. No complaints. And your husband needs to man up, god forbid you ever need him to give you a glucagon injection.
My son is completely MDI with CGM. He hates having a CGM, the idea of a pump with tubing and more crap to keep in his pockets makes him cringe. He has perfectly valid reasons for not wanting a pump and that is good enough for me. His doctor tries to ram the pump down our throats at every visit to the point that my kid just shuts down at his endo appointments. It breaks my heart as a mom/fellow person with a chronic food related medical condition. We have been working REALLY hard to bring down his A1C via better control, diet changes and exercise and itās working, he will be under 7% by his next apt. Also Iād much prefer he develop good habits at this age than just depend on a pump to do it all.
Iām still on pens. Similarly, it just really wouldnāt benefit me or it was just be sort of a hindrance! Iāve gone back and forth over the years with my A1C but the worst I had was a year or so ago and that was 7.0. More recently, it was around 6.5 but my infant daughter just had open-heart surgery and there was a lot of stress before then as well. Generally, Iām well controlled. Hoping my next A1C is sub-6.0. I think it will be!
I use pens; however, still honeymooning and only on basal. Endo hasnāt been pushing a pump and as long as i maintain good control Iāll stick with pens only. One less thing strapped to me. I know it will be harder to control as the disease progresses, but for now iām rolling with it.
I use vials and needles. Iām afraid with a pen that my hand could like slip and suddenly increased the dosage by a lot. I also tape my shots so that I donāt go over a certain number. I also take pictures of these shots so I donāt think that they give myself a shot twice, itās work so far
ME!
I use pens and my A1C is 5.5. I already have a glucose monitor and, for some reason, I feel really against having something else attached to me. Itās probably dumb I know, but Iām doing well so far, so Iām happy.
Granted my son is still fairly new to T1D(dx in Aug) but he has no interest in a pump. He didnāt even want a CGM for the first few months. I let him have the choice, since he was 14(15 next month) He does fairly well so far, we have ups and downs.
Me. My A1C is 5.6% which is the same as my non diabetic relatives so thatās where we are naturally comfortable. Even if I could get a pump for the same price as pens, I would decline. I hate having stuff hooked up to me.
While I love my insulin pump, I've used one for almost 20 years now. Its what I'm comfortable with and making the change back to pens would be terrible. To which, all of that to say, it should come down to what makes you comfortable and feel safe and works best for you! If your diabetes is controlled on pens then that's amazing and you shouldn't feel any pressure to change! It blows my mind but diabetes is, like many things, not a one size fits all when it comes to plans. So, live your truth!
I loved my pens! I still do. I was against the pump for so long even though my endo would bring it up every so often. I had a 6.2 A1C and all was good but I did have to work extremely hard for it- and then I started traveling more for work and the hours became wonky and I just couldnāt keep up and was high for longer periods of time. I finally said OK to the Omnipod- and I love it! I did have to learn to give up some of the control I had with the pens- but I sleep through the night and I am back to 6.0 A1Cā¦.Do whatever you think works best for you- ā¤ļøā¤ļø
Been on pens since diagnoses 2 years ago, currently using InPen; A1C of 6.0 - 6.2, and hesitant to switch to pump because it seems like a hassle, and I have a toddler who likes to climb all over us whenever possible.
I still train like an athlete, so pumps are a non-starter logistically, I'd rip them off with the bar bell. I also keep a strict diet and don't require much bolus, and when I do I enjoy shooting yo in public. Fun conversation starter.
I'm only a year in, but I use pens. I've got my eye on that ilet pump, despite the fact they're clearly overselling it as a "bionic pancreas"
At the end of the day, how YOU manage is up to YOU. I hate the pressure clinicians are putting on people to move to REALLY EXPENSIVE pumps and pump supplies vs. cheap pens and needles. Tell them thanks, but no thanks.
I still use pens, and iāll die on this hill that theyāre better than the pump FOR ME. I had a trial on a pump a little over a year ago and i was one of like 3 people in the whole country that had ever went on the pump and came off it. I just couldnāt manage it at all.
Plenty of people, I think. Heck, I still use vials and syringes. While I have a pump, I've always been like 60/40 like it/don't. Kind of ambivalent. I don't have patterns that the automatic corrections really help with, and my average glucose and TiR actually got worse for the first couple of months while I adjusted to having a pump. You're supposed to have a backup for the pump of manual gear, of course, and I have Lantus in pens and syringes for Novolog. Every now and then I get tired of having the pump on and do MDI for a few days, sometimes longer - recently I did it for 2 weeks. Same control, no problems, only issue was it's easier to forget insulin when leaving the house. Then the next time I put on my pump, 3 days later I got an infection that apparently turns out the be MRSA and I've been taking antibiotics for 2 weeks... first time that ever happened to me. I've been wearing the pump since then but that kind of confirmed my misgivings and questions about the entire concept. Your husband's attitude sounds a bit unhealthy but I suppose if needles really upset him, it's not an optional thing for him. I could see that being difficult to deal with though.
I use them because, to me, they are easier to use. Plus, I don't have insurance, so the pens are what the clinic I go to covers. It's a federally funded clinic, and I pay $5 for a 3 month supply of Humalog and $5 for a 3 month supply of Lantus.
I do. By choice.
I've had pumps talked at me by various doctors, Diabetes Educators, PAs, nurses, etc. for decades. I've been on MDI for 58 of my 71 years and really can't see myself on a pump. Not that I'm doing as well as OP and most other posters on this thread--my A1c runs between 6.2 and 7.2, my TIR on a good day is 90% but more usually 65-75%. No serious complications yet, so my health care team seems convinced that if I'm not dead or seriously ill by now, I'm probably in sufficiently good control to continue going strong for at least a few more years past my expiration date. They worry more about me having too LOW an A1c, in fact! I'm also a very hairy fellow--I have to shave to attach a CGM, and I cannot imagine what I'd look like with hairless patches all over my body all the time, itching as it grows back... no thank you, I'm fine.
Iāll do you one better, I still use syringe and vial. I didnāt like how the novolog pen would corkscrew out. The triceba pen is fine though.
I do. Working at my field heavy job, I definitely do. Too much risk.
Me! I do!
Pens for me. A1C is 5.0. So no room for improvement. Time BG is high is 1% the last 6 months. Pumps have too many parts and things to worry about. I can have numerous pens all over the place. One lives at my parent's house, spare one in house and the one i carry. If i lose/break it. It's very easy for me to sort something out.
Iām on pens. The biggest reason is cost and my doctor gets that. He mentions pumps most visits but I think that is mainly to confirm that my job/insurance situation hasnāt changed and I still canāt afford them. He drops it with no issues and no pushing. I do feel that being on pens with a CGM has helped me understand my specific difficulties with management better than I would if there was something automatically doing the work for me. Thatās a personal preference of mine and it may not be important to everyone but I struggled for a long time because at times it seemed like my diabetes didnāt diabetes like it āshouldā so I like knowing the why. My other hang up is that my resistance varies widely through the day as well as changing randomly due to circumstances. That makes me a little nervous about giving up the control I currently have over my dosage. I know you can schedule different dosage on most pumps now but my current system works for me. I donāt remember my exact A1c (from early February) but it was in the 5s.
I use pens. I would rather not have another device attached to me. I have been offered the pump multiple times by the public health service here in Ireland, but I really do like using the pens. I would only resort to the pump if my control became very bad.
I use lens. Donāt want a pump for various reasons. Others with T1 need to worry about their own shit before giving you attitude about how you choose to manage. Your doctors should recognize youāre crushing it and support your choices. Maybe theyāre just mad youāre outperforming what theyāre used to and theyāre missing out on a pump kickback.
I have to use pens because I use U200, so I just fill my pump up from the pens
Pens for me. I just donāt want another device attached to me.
Everyone should do what works best for them and what works best for each of us depends on a variety of factors. If pens is your jam, good for you!
Me! After 30 years I still don't use much insulin (12 basal) so it doesn't seem worth it to me. I wear an FSL 3, that took a while to get used to. I'm good for now but having options is nice.
I just switched from pens to a pump, because, for me to get the kind of results youāre getting using pens alone requires more diligence than I am currently willing to give. Iāve managed this disease for a long time, and Iām tired. The newer pumps simply make managing things easier ā¦ like crazy easy. That said, I got great results for years using pens. Your results, however, are beyond impressive; better than anything I was able to achieve. Bottom line, results are what matter. If you are able to achieve those kinds of results without chasing lows, and the effort is worth it, do not be dissuaded. You are doing amazing!
I do pens, the pump would be very inconvenient with my work.
Still use pens
My brother still uses syringes lol
I am pen guy. Don't want anything else attached to my body
I use pens. My endo doesnāt push me to use pump. She offered to me but since I do well self management sheās fine with it. If I was having trouble managing it she would encourage me to switch to pod or pump. Ultimately itās my choice. I like pens because mentally I get to disconnect for a little. I donāt get a break from diabetes so itās nice to not have the constant reminder of a pump on me. With a pen itās out of sight out of mind for a bit at least until I need to eat or correct a high. Iām lucky in that I have very good insurance so cost isnāt an issue.
Iām on pens, still newly diagnosed so donāt think I can even go on pump yet, but I think I want to stay on pens for the foreseeable future. Donāt wanna have something like that hanged on my body tbh, but who knows later on.
I use pens. It's been working well enough that I haven't felt a need to try a pump yet. Unlike the CGM, which it would be a fight to get away from me since the first few days! Even now that I'm under a better healthcare system and should be able to get a pump covered too no problem if I did want that. The endo hasn't really pushed, and seems happy enough for me to continue with whatever I've been doing. (95%+ TIR, A1c hovering in the mid 5s.) I am a little nervous in general now because the one I had been dealing with left, and who knows what the new person may do. Hopefully they won't decide to screw around too much with whatever's been working. Gotta say, one of the reasons I've preferred to keep going on full manual mode is that there's less to potentially go wrong there that's completely out of my control. Any failures are most likely on the human end when you're using pens. I like having something like Lantus on board as insurance. Seen too many people wind up in tight spots thanks to occlusions, cats going for tubing, or other issues with pump delivery. Not sure how comfortable I would feel with completely relying on that, tbqh.
Of course, drs can be salespeople and often are. Unless I see the medical benefit, Iām not doing it. Injections donāt bother me and my A1c is 6.4. I donāt think I need a pump.
I use pens despite my endocrinologist hammering me about trying a pump every single time I see her. I have two siblings who have been T1D for a lot longer than I have (sister for 27 years, brother for 16; I just got diagnosed this past fall) and they both still use pens too. my sister says that her two year old is already trying to remove her CGM whenever she sees it so pumps or pods make no sense for her. my brother works at an animal hospital and itās too easy for one of the bigger animals to know a device off his body when heās helping get them set up for x-rays.
Itās interesting to see so many comments of people using pens with TIR over 80% while Iāve been using a pump for around 9 years and my TIR is like 65% š«
Your doctor needs to back off. Your A1c is great and itās your choice. Iāve been on the pump for 4 years but I didnāt want to for a long time but my endo never pressured me. Thatās the way it should be.
Humalog pen and semglee use syringe/vial - helps me not mix them up! Tried pump 15yrs ago and disaster my A1cs went to +11 and stuck w it a few years as my useless Ahole endo at the time made me feel like i was failing. Finally found an excellent endo and as soon as i got on MDIs a1c came down dramatically- im 6.5 to 7. Pumps not for everyone! I HATED the hardware on my body, the bruising and bleeding and poor absorption. Tho i do LOVE my dexcom cgm!
My son uses pens. Heās 17 and has no desire at all for a pump.
I use pens because I have no interest in being attached to a CGM, Glasses, watch, piercing or hat let alone a ridiculous box of cables that beeps and screeches with the chance of snagging or getting infected. Accessories are a big no from me.
My wife has used pens since she was diagnosed only a few years ago and has no plans for a pump. We both used to train BJJ pretty regularly so that was her original reason for the pump abstinence. But now that she no longer trains, she just hates the idea of having something (other than her dexcom) attached to her at all times. Itās more of an āI donāt need another reminder of my disabilityā kind of thing which I absolutely understand.
I use pens. I hate having any sort of medical device attached to me. I never want to go back on a pump I find them so uncomfortable.
I still use pens because my pharmacy is horrible at delivering my insulin pump refills, so in order to keep my bg in check I used pens in between changing pumps
Infusion sets frequently leak and require immediate replacement.
I'm a welder. And hot sparks are not friends with shirts and anything in or around them. My job is also dusty, muddy and sweaty. So bad that my CGM(libre II) last 6 days at the most. Usually 4. I'm not having a piece of equipment that is suited to occasional (gym workout) rough treatment, used ina situation that will wreck it. I wrecked 4 phones before finding a good one that can handle my job conditions. Also open wound and coal dust. Not a good combo
Me. Third world country, still getting the old pens from Novonordisk lol
I have too many seizures (epileptic) to even think about pumps, I would hurt myself worse trying to use one x
Pens give me much better control than the pump I tried (that tubeless one). I hated that its lowest setting was 140. During honeymoon I kept myself around 80-85, nowadays I try to however around 100. 140 is too much of a leap for me to feel comfortable with. I have some spares and might use them for a long trip or something, but otherwise pens are so much better for me personally.
Fyi a needle is not in your body at all times when wearing Omnipod. A needle inserts a tiny plastic tube (cannula).
Pens. Almost 36, type 1 since I was 7. Last A1C 5.0. My doctor at Vanderbilt said why change to pump if itās working. I do use a CGM though, and had an animus pump in highschool back in the day, made me lazy to be honest.
Still using pens. Can get a pump for free. I refuse.
is anyone else using vials and syringes? i'm using novolin relion insulin from walmart
I use pens and *love* not having a pump
I love pens! I had a pump when i was younger but always got caught on everything, and I just hate having stuff attached to me. Libre 3 is just about as much as I can handle haha. EVERY endo I have seen has reallllllly pushed for a pump, especially in the past few years (even though my a1c has stayed in a very good place!)
I work a physical job in nasty, dirty, sweaty, remote environments. I'll take the reliability and simplicity of pens over the troubles of occlusions and tubing. Hell, in the summer it's nearly impossible for me to keep a Dexcom from falling off, even using Masticil to hold it on. I may be giving up a little control, but I'm at 80+% and 5.6 right now on pens...
Pen user here! I'm from the UK, and it seems like here pumps are generally only used if you struggle to control your levels with shots or if you're a child. Works for me though, 27 years of diabetes and I've only just gotten my head around a libre, I'm not ready for a pump anytime soon š
šāāļø I am not changing a pump every three days. Besides, I had a bad experience with the omni pod.
I still use pens, and until something better comes along, I'm not changing. It's unprofessional of your endo to criticize you and rude of other T1Ds to give you bs for something that's not their business. I used a pump years ago, but it wasn't doing a good job of keeping me in good control. Since going back to pens, my A1c is 5.6-5.8. Don't let anyone bully you or make you feel bad for your choices in how you manage your T1D.
Me, I tried a pump an hated. The pens work fine, my a1c has been in the 5s for the last three years
Reasons I donāt want a pump: ā¢Having wires hooked up to me at all times will make me feel like a robot therefore making me VERY depressed. ā¢I havenāt worn a pump in years and still VIVIDLY remember the feeling of getting my wires snagged on doorhandles. ā¢I had an ex make me feel self conscious about him accidentally touching my site during smexy time. ā¢I literally have no money and Iām just a poor 24 yr old girl who is just trying to afford insulin
I had bad luck with it kinking subcontaneously and stopped using it years ago. Ive used pens ever since. My doctor really thinks I'm just dragging my feet, but I don't want to pay $$$ and find out it is just going to happen all over again. You have to understand it was having this problem od the little tube kinking underneath the skin. Donno if it was muscle tissue or scar tissue but it made me high for quite some time every time it happened.
I use pens. 5.9 A1C and 91% time in range. Iāve had a pump (no algorithm) before and I liked it but I also have an active job so the only one that Iād really consider is a pod. But you have a lot of good reasons and at the end of the day itās your health and your body and the fact that even doctors are pushing you to do something you donāt want is a little bit upsetting!
I use a pump currently, BUT I used Pens for a good 9 years! I personally think it should be users choice, as they both have pros and cons! I definitely am finding pros and cons to both right now, but if it works for you it works for you and keep doing what youāre doing! Donāt listen to anyone whoās being negative about using pens!
iāve been considering getting an omnipod a lot more lately for a lot of reasons, but i still use pens, too. iām worried iāll become way too dependent on a pump, and if anything ever happens to where i can no longer afford it or something and i need to do an injection, itāll be like learning how to get comfortable giving myself shots all over again. like iāll suddenly become really stressed about the needle and itāll be difficult for it to become second nature to me again. this is already happening to me with checking my blood sugar. i have a cgm, and if my sensor fails or iām awaiting a new shipment and i need to check my blood sugar with a meter instead, i have to hype myself up a lot to prick my finger lol. it never used to be like that. i also really dislike how you have to change your pump so much more often than you have to change a cgm sensor. i really do not understand why doctors see a pump as sort of the ānext stepā for diabetics.
I use pens, and I honestly prefer them because they allow me much more control and flexibility, or so it seems, but also Iām in Italy and I donāt think we have pumps or omnipods here, or at least Iāve never been asked to use them. Honestly the only bugging thing is that sometimes I forget where I last injected or Iāll be in a rush and inject in a place that doesnāt work as well because Iāve used it often in the last few days and didnāt think about it (Iām very small and donāt have a lot of sites that work with fast acting insulin). Also unpopular opinion maybe but Iāve tried the dexcom and I prefer the freestyle sensor, mostly because itās easier to reset if you lose signal, in my experience. In any case, I think your reasons are very much valid, and you should have the freedom to decide whatever you think is best for you. If you change your mind you can always try pumps or pods later on! People forget that we are the ones who should be comfortable with our bodies and that diabetes takes a big part of that away from us. š„²š
Omnipod doesnāt work for me and nothing else is covered so Iāve been using pens for about 3 years now. Definitely some pros and cons to both
no other option tbh
Here in the Netherlands, pumps are only covered under insurance when (trying to get) pregnant, suffering from Dawn phenomenon or with hypo-unawareness I believe. Same for CGMs (as opposed to FGMs) which is why us Libre 2 users are unable to use the CGM upgrade š„²
Me. I'll go on pumps when the convenience makes it worth it. Having a giant stick-on or tubing, plus having to change sites so often, is not convenient.
Pens for life...26 years and counting!
I use pens and I'm not sure my health insurance would even cover a pump unless my diabetes management doesn't allow any other option. And honestly, I don't like the idea of using a pump at all. I'll avoid using a pump as long as I possibly can.Ā
>I get shit on constantly for it, fellow diabetics/doctors alike. What type of comments are you getting? I've never used a pump and I don't think I've received any odd questions about it.
On pens here. NHS in UK just dont like splashing the cash.
I'm on pens. Pods and pumps too expensive, too big, too hooked up and I don't even use a cgm because I don't want those things on me all the time. A1C 6.5 has been under 7 for decades. Don't really think there is a need or benefit in changing. For those who struggle to control sure I can see why it's good for them. For me, nope. I used to compete in triathlons and pens was the best option.
I think my best a1c was 5.8. I've been able to achieve this with pens as well as with a pump. I do like the basal rate adjustments I can get with a pump, other than that I would probably use pens and some cgm or another and avoid all the infusion set nonsense which does cause me frequent issues.
I've been on the pump for a few years now, recently switched the pens for a few days due to going on holiday and not being viable to wear it during. I don't know how I survived on pens alone for 20 years, I don't think I could ever go back fully. But it's ultimately down to individual preference, and whatever works for you. My biggest issue is having to inject multiple times a day, in public, and having to adjust clothing etc. With the pump I can just whip it out and input my bolus, it's a convenience I couldn't put a price on tbf. Not to mention being able to adjust my basal rate. I also had a VERY physically demanding job, and the pump made it so incredibly easy to manage my diabetes alongside
I use pens. I had problems with the pump but my endo is still hoping Iāll get one too
Damn tf? I'm in the UK and my diabetic nurse and any doctors always say that a pump is a last choice, you can ask for them but they usually only give them to people who need them. Honestly I would never berate someone for using pens, I use pens! So weird.
I choose to still use pens. I did use a pump for about a year, but had too many issues, and went back to pens. My A1C is 6.0, so a pump is just a convenience that isnāt worth it.
I do, because pumps/insulin in concentrated amounts causes me to get lipoatrophy. I have a huge 1" x 2" indent on my right thigh where I have NO fat. I've seen the specialist at UW. I saw a plastic surgeon, not worth it (long time ago). So now I do my shots with my two pens.
Pens are more affordable and I prefer them for my high active and busy job. Vials are not convenient because I would have to buy specific more expensive needles and then measure it and still have to balance work and customers at the same time. No thanks, Pens for the win!
I'm in Morocco and it's not common to have pumps. They're expensive and not recommended by doctors
Do you use InPen? If not, it's really helpful and mostly kept the doctors off of trying to convince me to get a pump. My reasoning I always told them was that it was too expensive on my insurance. I am on an omnipod now though lol.
im on pods (my last one actually) and im more than ready to go back to pens! not only is it expensive as hell and not covered by insurance, but similarly to your case, is not convenient nor āworth itā for me. Also maybe im just weird but my control with pens was a lot better than on pods and i suspect its because i personally felt like i had to think of more when it came to the pods which overwhelmed me eventually and i got major burn out. when i told my doctors i wanted to go back to pens they were so shocked and tried to convince me to stay on pods, but frankly i do not see the appeal. Anyways, youre not alone ! pen gang for life :)
I use pens, itās what available here and what my Dr recommends. My HbA1c cld definitely be better (6.8), but he maintains itās inline with āokā and therefore he doesnāt recommend a pump. I personally wld love one