I have no experience with Control-IQ as it’s not available, but I have been using Basal-IQ and so far the experience has been very good. In a nutshell the algorithm uses G6 data to make a linear projection of blood sugar 30 minutes ahead. If the output predicts BGL will go below 80, basal is suspended. Once the signal reaches an inflection point where the BGL starts to increase, basal is resumed.
It works very well for me, especially overnight when it’s unlikely I have much IOB or BGL is dropping slowly. The drop below 80 is almost always arrested, bringing me back into range. Ditto for any other situation where blood sugar is not dropping precipitously.
But when BGL is dropping very quickly, it won’t be able to fully stop the fall before your BGL has dropped below 80. Suspending basal can only do so much. You have to be just as vigilant watching your CGM and paying attention of alarms as you would without it. Otherwise you may get caught by surprise.
With those limitations in mind, it works extremely well for me. That’s why I’m hesitant to give it up until I understand how Control-IQ will work under similar circumstances. Almost all my “out of range” happens at the low end. I generally don’t have issues at the high end. I don’t want to lose the low-end effectiveness in deference to a closed loop system.
I’m not sure why the rep balked at the idea of a loaner pump. At least she didn’t shut me down outright and asked that I approach her when Control-IQ has been launched.
The other downside of not upgrading is what I might miss in future upgrades. Tandem’s CEO has said they plan on releasing new improvements at least once a year. I’m sure any future upgrades will require implementing all the prior versions.
Here are some references
https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/providers/basal-iq
