I have a question about the CGM. I was on the omni pod, and then taken off of it and put on syringes. I would really like to get a CGM and then go back on a pump, but I haven't decided if I want to go back on the omnipod. I there a pump that works best with the CGM?
If you want a pump that integrates a CGM, you are currently limited to the Animas Vibe and Medtronic pumps. The pump body itself displays the CGM data and you'll have two sites on your skin, one for the pump cannula and one for the CGM sensor.
Some people like the simplicity of only carrying one device for both the pump and CGM. I personally prefer a separate receiver for the CGM since I can place it nearby at night to increase my odds of hearing it while I'm sleeping, but not under the covers. One research and clinical doc from Stanford told a group of T1Ds at a diabetes conference last weekend that we sleep through 70% of night time alarms.
I've never used the Medtronic CGM but I do know that users prefer the Dexcom CGM and also that the Dexcom is more accurate than the Medtronic unit.
So, if your don't require a combined pump/CGM then you can select the pump you prefer. The Medtronic CGM requires pairing with a Medtronic pump so that only leaves you with the Dexcom G4 system, a great option in my opinion.
You can use a separate CGM with any pump. They do not talk with one another. The Dexcom G4 is a separate CGM that can be used separately from the pump. It is a separate receiver and transmitter. Another CGM that is pretty much sold out in Europe - but not yet approved in the US is the Freestyle Libre. It is getting good reviews - but who knows when we will be able to get it.
There are two brands of pumps available now with integrated CGMs. One company is Medtronic. They have their own CGM technology. The other company is Animas and their VIBE pump has integrated Dexcom G4 technology built in. The TSlim is hoping the FDA will approve their pump with the Dexcom G4 technology in the June time frame.
I believe the Omnipod is getting integrated with something as well.
So - I guess you need to decide - built in CGM or separate receiver.
I am using a Dexcom G4 and Animas Ping pump. Some people like the units separate - and some like them integrated with the pump. I am still undecided on whether I want the integrated pump.
Since you are on shots, you might try a Dexcom because it would allow you to use it with any pump you choose.