Those of you using omnipod 5, what do you do when intermittently using steroids since the system is always “learning.” I don’t take steroids frequently, just when having an RA flare, so I’m a little worried I’ll have to start a new basal program that the pod will be too conservative with while it’s learning. Would you just recommend taking it out of auto mode and using normal higher basal rates?
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I have not tried any adjustments for steroid use but I’ve had success making adjustments for varying levels of insulin resistance with Omnipod 5. I’ve done this by tweaking basal rates and temp basals and spending time in manual mode. Generally what works for me is getting aggressive with temp basals before and after the 3 meals and staying in manual with my high basal until I’m cruising along in range, then switching back to Auto. Its not perfect, definitely a lot of trial and error involved.
Even when doing that I still spend 60-70% of each day in Auto mode with decent BG numbers. The only thing Om5 actually learns from pod to pod is TDD.
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Yes, that’s gonna be a tough situation for it to account for. Wouldn’t hurt to do some troubleshooting w/ John58 if you have further concerns. Little tricky.
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Thanks, guys! I just made a new basal setting with my increased basals like I normally would and threw it in auto with the expectation that I’ll likely have to throw it back into manual at some point since I still haven’t nailed down auto in my regular settings (a whole separate story about a possibly bad controller)…we’ll see. Thanks for the advice!
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Hey there! It’s awesome to hear that you’ve been rocking the Omnipod 5 and figuring out how to manage your insulin resistance like a pro! You’re doing great by being aggressive with those temp basals around mealtime and hanging out in manual mode to keep those BG numbers in check. Trial and error is just part of the game, so don’t sweat it.
It’s cool that Om5 takes your total daily insulin dose into account for automated decisions. So, even though it might not remember your basal rates from pod to pod, it’s still learning from your TDD to help you out.
You’re nailing it with spending a good chunk of your day in Auto mode with decent BG numbers. That’s the sweet spot right there!
Just remember, keep communicating with your diabetes team, like your endo or diabetes educator. They’ll have your back, give you support, and help fine-tune your insulin therapy. Keep checking your blood sugar regularly!
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