Many in the Diabetes Community are anxiously awaiting the release of the smaller and sleeker 2nd generation OmniPod, but already we know what a third generation won’t have:

A Pod that’s integrated with a Dexcom CGM sensor.

Yep, it’s true: the two companies say they have abandoned the integration deal they had in place since 2008.

Two executives at Massachusetts-based Insulet Corp., makers of the OmniPod, say they’re no longer working with California-based Dexcom on integration, and Dexcom’s CEO Terry Gregg confirms this.

They’ve essentially broken up after dating for five years, deciding marriage wasn’t in the cards. Yes, the relationship’s been rocky for at least a couple years, and so this parting isn’t completely surprising. But both are finally admitting they can’t keep going on the same path together.

“The official agreement isn’t actually terminated, we’re just not moving forward at this time and we don’t expect to in the future,” Gregg said. “I believe Insulet is making a mistake, but it is their mistake to make.”

Rather than stay with Dexcom, Insulet’s already courting a new CGM partner. In the past two weeks, Insulet has signed a development agreement with an unnamed private company to develop an OmniPod that would incorporate the insulin-infusing Pod with a CGM sensor in one single unit — eliminating the need for a second site on the skin.

Insulet’s CEO Duane DeSisto says, “Our goal is pretty simple: Have a product that keeps the patient out of trouble, doesn’t interfere with their life, and is just one thing on the body. That is where we are going to go. We think we can put one thing on the body that has a sensor and delivers insulin all in one space.”

Continue Reading