Debiotech Showcases New Insulin “JewelPUMP” at ADA

One of the most interesting exhibits at this year's ADA Scientific Sessions was the booth showcasing the "JewelPUMP,” a new patch pump based on MEMS micro-pump technology, which allows for a large insulin reservoir. The patch pump consists of three parts: a disposable cradle containing a needle that is placed on the skin (with an automated insertion device available), a disposable insulin reservoir (which also contains a battery and the micro-pump), and an electronic control module (available with colorful covers). The overall dimensions are smaller in all directions than the current Insulet OmniPod. The JewelPUMP reservoir can hold up to 450 units of insulin (for up to six days’ use), although the cradle officially needs replacing every three days. The pump technology allows a minimum dose of 0.02 units (compared to 0.05 units on leading competitors), and has sensors that can easily detect occlusion.

Notably, this is also one of the first pumps showcasing software that directly interfaces with a popular cell phone platform – Google’s Android – which may make pumping less intrusive and obvious for daily life with diabetes. Though we have heard some concerns over achieving FDA approval using a consumer interface, the software operates independently from the telephone and automatically locks to prevent an accidental bolus when trying to use other features on the phone. The pump software appears to have all of our favorite features, and the sleek interface made it easy to graphically display and edit basal profiles and review other pump settings. The JewelPUMP is currently under review at FDA, and the company hopes to have the pump on the market in the US next year. However, pump manufacturing has shown the devil is in the details; in particular, it will be important to see how Debiotech builds customer service and manufacturing versus the US pump players today that have made major commitments in these areas, including Medtronic, J&J/Animas, and Insulet.--DL