What to do if a patient's Omnipod (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion device) malfunctions?

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Last updated: May 2, 2025 • View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

If an Onpro device malfunctions, immediately contact the healthcare provider who prescribed it and do not attempt to fix or manipulate the device yourself. Signs of malfunction include the status light turning red, the device detaching prematurely, or failure to deliver the medication (indicated by the fill indicator not showing empty after scheduled delivery) 1. While waiting for medical guidance, monitor the injection site for any unusual reactions. If the device was not able to deliver the medication, the healthcare provider may need to administer a replacement dose in the office.

Key Considerations

  • Document when the malfunction occurred and any symptoms you experienced
  • Onpro devices contain pegfilgrastim, which stimulates white blood cell production after chemotherapy, so a missed dose could impact your immune system recovery
  • The healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan based on your blood counts and risk of infection if the medication was not properly delivered 1

Potential Complications

  • Infection at the injection site
  • Delayed recovery of white blood cell production
  • Increased risk of infection due to compromised immune system It is essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper management of the condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed 1.

From the Research

Omnipod Malfunction

If a patient's Omnipod malfunctions, the following steps can be taken:

  • Contact the manufacturer's customer support for assistance and guidance on troubleshooting and repair or replacement options 2, 3
  • Review the user manual and instructions for the Omnipod system to ensure proper use and maintenance 2, 3
  • Consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional or diabetes educator for guidance on managing the malfunction and adjusting treatment plans as needed 4, 5

Troubleshooting

Some potential causes of Omnipod malfunction include:

  • Incorrect use or maintenance of the device 2, 3
  • Technical issues or software glitches 2, 3
  • Interference from other devices or environmental factors 6
  • Battery or power issues 2, 3

Clinical Considerations

When managing a patient with an Omnipod malfunction, healthcare providers should consider the following:

  • The patient's individual treatment plan and goals 4, 5
  • The potential impact of the malfunction on the patient's glucose control and overall health 4, 5
  • The need for alternative treatment options or adjustments to the patient's current regimen 4, 5

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

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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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