Insulin was discovered 80 years ago and was administered by injection. 80 years later, insulin is still delivered by injection. Insulin pens have made injections easier. Insulin pumps can administer complex insulin delivery schedules. One option missing in the injection world is the convenience of a pump with the simplicity of a pen.
A company new to the diabetes market, Valeritas, has come up with a device that meets this need. The V-Go simplifies insulin delivery for people with type 2 diabetes who need meal time insulin as well as night time long acting insulin. The device is used for 1 day then replaced. It delivers background (basal) insulin with a constant slow delivery of short acting insulin. This replaces the Lantus or Levemir. This delivery is automatic and pre-set. Meal time doses are delivered by pushing a button. There are no batteries, no programming, no tubes. You will never see the needle.
I wore one for a day (without insulin) to see how it 'feels'. I felt a pinprick when the needle went in and the sensation was gone in a few seconds. Within the hour I forgot it was there. When I woke up in the morning I forgot it was there until I saw it. After a 20 mile bike ride there was no discomfort or any annoyance at all.
If you are interested in taking your insulin with this delivery system then first read the web site. Second, watch the how-to video on the web site. Third, please contact me. Most commercial insurance plans will cover this prescription and with a copay reduction card should cost about $25. It is NOT covered by Medicare part D plans yet.
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