Latest News & Views in Diabetes Technology

The Accu-Chek Solo micropump system from Roche has gained FDA approval, providing a new insulin delivery solution for individuals aged 2 years and older with type 1 diabetes. The system comprises a tubeless insulin pump and a wireless handheld controller featuring Bluetooth connectivity. Similar to the Omnipod, the Accu-Chek Solo is worn as a patch directly on the body and is controlled wirelessly from a touchscreen handheld device.

The system consists of five total components:

1. a disposable adhesive pump holder
2. infusion cannula 
3. a reservoir
4. a reusable pump base (lasts up to four months)
5. and a reusable handheld diabetes manager equipped with an integrated Accu-Chek guide glucose meter and bolus calculator 

Notable features of the Accu-Chek Solo include a transparent reservoir for air bubble detection, varying cannula lengths, and a "pen-therapy mode" allowing temporary transitions to an insulin pen with no data loss.

There is no smartphone app for controlling the pump or remote monitoring. Also, the system doesn't currently connect with continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), but Roche is exploring CGM integration capabilities in future iterations of the micropump system.

The Accu-Chek Solo enters the US market as the second tubeless insulin pump after Omnipod. No date for US availability has been provided. More to come.