Insulin Pump Patches: Taking the Hit Out of Insulin Injections

Taking insulin injections can be a burden, especially if you take multiple injections a day. Thankfully, there are some alternatives available. One option is an insulin pump patch.

What is an insulin pump patch?

An insulin pump patch is a disposable insulin delivery device. Unlike traditional insulin pumps, which are used for 4 to 5 years before they are upgraded, insulin pump patches are changed daily or every few days. You throw away the old pump patch, and then prep and put on the new one.

How do insulin pump patches work?

Insulin pump patches use only rapid-acting insulin, such as lispro (Humalog^®) or aspart (NovLog^®). You fill the pump patch with insulin every 1 to 3 days (depending on the brand). Once filled, you place the patch on your body following the manufacturer's instructions.¹

All pump patches allow you to dose mealtime insulin from the patch. Some patches also replace long-acting insulin needs. Because pump patches are disposable, if you don't like using them, you can easily return to insulin pens or vials.¹

What are the benefits of pump patches?

There are several benefits of pump patches. Pump patches make insulin dosing less obvious, which is nice if you want to keep your diagnosis private. You will have fewer insulin injections and typically need less insulin than before. If you use a patch that replaces long-acting and mealtime insulin doses, you will have fewer insulins to pay for and manage.^1-3

Pump patches add more flexibility to life – you don't have to worry about forgotten insulin pens because your insulin is always with you. If you have a fear of needles or often forget your injections, this tool may help address these issues. Most pump patches are water-resistant.^1-3

Your blood sugars also benefit: Pump patch users typically have over a 1.5 percent decrease in their A1C.^1-3

What are the drawbacks of using pump patches?

Pump patches do take some time to prep and fill with insulin. If you have arthritis or trouble with small hand movements, filling pump patches may be difficult.^1-3

If you use very small or very large amounts of insulin, the patch may not be the right fit. Mealtime doses are given in 2-unit increments, and the patches can only hold so much insulin at the same time. You will need to carry a backup insulin pen or vial and syringe in case your pump patch gets disconnected from your body. Finally, you will need to remove the patch for any medical tests, like X-rays or MRIs.^1-3

Common insulin pump patch brands

The 2 most commonly prescribed pump patches are the V-Go and CeQur Simplicity. Both types of pump patches offer savings cards for people with private insurance.^1-3

V-Go

The V-Go replaces both your long-acting and mealtime insulin doses. It delivers doses through a steel needle into the skin. You change the V-Go every 24 hours.²

CeQur

The CeQur replaces only your mealtime insulin doses. It delivers insulin through a plastic cannula. (A needle helps the plastic cannula go into your skin, and then it is removed, leaving only the cannula). You change the CeQur every 3 days.³

Either pump patch can be changed more often if needed. But you may need prior authorization from your insurance to do so.^2,3