Is Tandem's Control IQ (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) the same as Medtronic's AutoMode (Automated Insulin Dosage) on their insulin pumps?

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Last updated: May 1, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

No, Tandem's Control-IQ and Medtronic's Auto Mode are not the same system, though they serve similar purposes as automated insulin delivery systems. Control-IQ, found on Tandem's t:slim X2 pump, uses predictive algorithms to adjust insulin delivery based on CGM readings and can automatically deliver correction boluses for high blood glucose, as described in the context of automated insulin delivery systems 1. It also has different activity settings and can reduce insulin when predicting low glucose. Medtronic's Auto Mode, available on their 670G and 780G pumps, also automatically adjusts basal insulin but works differently - the 670G can only increase or decrease basal rates (without automatic correction boluses), while the newer 780G can deliver auto-corrections. The systems use different CGM technologies (Tandem pairs with Dexcom, Medtronic uses its own Guardian sensor) and have different target glucose settings and adjustment algorithms, which are crucial for effective diabetes management as outlined in standards of care 1.

Some key differences and considerations include:

  • The ability of Control-IQ to automatically deliver correction boluses, which may offer more precise control over blood glucose levels.
  • The variation in CGM technologies used by each system, which could impact accuracy and user experience.
  • The importance of patient and caregiver capability in safely and effectively using these devices, as they require manual entry of certain data and adjustments for physical activity 1.
  • The potential benefits of AID systems, including reduced A1C levels, improved time in range (TIR), and lowered risk of exercise-related hypoglycemia, as supported by multiple studies 1.

Patients considering either system should discuss with their healthcare provider which might better suit their specific diabetes management needs, taking into account factors such as lifestyle, glucose control goals, and personal preference.

From the Research

Comparison of Tandem's Control IQ and Medtronic's AutoMode

  • Tandem's Control IQ and Medtronic's AutoMode are both automated insulin delivery systems, but there is limited direct comparison between the two in the provided studies.
  • A study comparing the Tandem Control IQ and the Medtronic MiniMed 780G found that the MiniMed 780G had a higher time in range (TIR) and time in tight range (TITR) than the Control IQ 2.
  • However, the study did not directly compare the Control IQ to Medtronic's AutoMode, which is a different system.
  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that Tandem's Control IQ is the same as Medtronic's AutoMode.

Automated Insulin Delivery Systems

  • Automated insulin delivery systems, such as the Tandem Control IQ and Medtronic MiniMed 780G, use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data to adjust insulin delivery 2.
  • These systems have been shown to improve glycemic control and reduce hypoglycemic events in patients with type 1 diabetes 2.
  • However, the specific features and algorithms used by each system may differ, and more research is needed to directly compare the performance of different automated insulin delivery systems.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

  • Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a valuable tool for assessing glycemic control and detecting hypoglycemic events in patients with diabetes 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • CGM data can be used to inform insulin dosing decisions and improve glycemic control in patients with diabetes 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • However, the accuracy and reliability of CGM data can vary depending on the specific system used and other factors 3.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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