Tandem Diabetes Care Expands Partnerships and Product Pipeline in Diabetes Tech Sector

Tandem Diabetes Care, a leading player in the diabetes technology market, has announced significant developments in its product lineup and strategic partnerships. The company's recent moves aim to broaden its reach and provide more options for people with diabetes, particularly those who have not yet adopted insulin pump therapy.

Integration with Abbott's Glucose Sensors

Tandem has revealed plans to integrate its t:slim X2 insulin pump with Abbott's newest glucose sensor, the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus. This integration is currently in an early access launch phase, with plans to expand availability to more patients in the latter half of the year. Elizabeth Gasser, Tandem's chief strategy and product officer, emphasized the potential of this collaboration to attract both Type 1 and insulin-intensive Type 2 diabetes patients who have not yet transitioned to pump therapy.

In addition to the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus integration, Tandem will also connect its insulin pumps with Abbott's planned glucose-ketone sensor, which is expected to launch next year. This partnership underscores Tandem's commitment to expanding its ecosystem and providing patients with more comprehensive monitoring options.

Expansion into Type 2 Diabetes Market

Tandem recently received an expanded indication for its automated insulin delivery (AID) system to be used by people with Type 2 diabetes. The company has initiated a pilot launch for this expanded market. Gasser noted that while Tandem's AID system has been prescribed off-label for Type 2 diabetes patients for years, the official expansion of access necessitates careful consideration of how to adapt the technology for this user group.

Development of Patch Pump Options

Tandem is actively developing two patch pump options to diversify its product portfolio:

1. A tubeless option for its Mobi pump
2. A separate patch pump called Sigi

While specific timelines were not disclosed, Gasser confirmed that design verification testing has begun on the Mobi patch feature. The Sigi pump, designed specifically for tubeless wear, is slated to follow the Mobi's release.

Gasser highlighted Tandem's goal to challenge conventional notions of tubeless pumps, emphasizing potential advantages such as the ability to detach the device without losing insulin, flexible wear time, increased processing power for AID algorithms, and reduced electronic waste through rechargeable batteries.

As competition in the diabetes tech sector intensifies, Tandem remains focused on innovation and patient-centric solutions. "There's not one size fits all here," Gasser stated, acknowledging the challenges of integrating diverse ecosystems while affirming the company's commitment to providing tailored options for patients with diabetes.