Medtronic plc announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the Simplera Sync sensor for use with the company's MiniMed 780G insulin delivery system. This approval expands the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) options available to users of Medtronic's advanced diabetes management technology in the United States.
The Simplera Sync sensor represents a significant advancement in the company's CGM portfolio, offering users a more streamlined experience. The disposable, all-in-one sensor requires no fingersticks when used with the SmartGuard feature and eliminates the need for overtape. Clinical trial participants reported that the sensor is smaller and lighter than other sensors they have previously used, potentially improving comfort and wearability.
"We're committed to driving innovation that makes life easier for those living with diabetes so they can forget about their diabetes as much as possible throughout the day," said Que Dallara, EVP and president of Medtronic Diabetes. "Our MiniMed 780G system delivers advanced diabetes technology for so many around the world, and we're excited to continue evolving this experience with expanded CGM options—including our Simplera Sync sensor."
Advanced Features of the MiniMed 780G System
The MiniMed 780G system utilizes an adaptive algorithm that automatically anticipates, adjusts, and corrects glucose levels every 5 minutes, 24 hours a day. This continuous monitoring and adjustment allows users to focus less on managing their diabetes and more on daily activities.
A key differentiator of the system is its Meal Detection technology, which can identify rising blood glucose levels and deliver additional insulin as needed. This feature helps users maintain glucose levels within target range even when they occasionally forget to dose insulin for meals or underestimate their carbohydrate intake.
The system employs a "treat to target" approach with flexible glucose targets as low as 100 mg/dL. When combined with its adaptive algorithm, this allows the system to more closely mirror the glucose levels of individuals without diabetes. Real-world data demonstrates that global users consistently achieve time in range above international targets of 70% when using optimal settings (active insulin time of two hours and 100 mg/dL target glucose).
Additionally, the MiniMed 780G is the only system compatible with an infusion set that can be used for up to 7 days, allowing users to change their infusion set just once weekly—resulting in 96% fewer injections compared to multiple daily injection therapy.
Clinical Performance and User Benefits
The Simplera Sync sensor's approval follows clinical evaluation that demonstrated its effectiveness and user-friendly design. The sensor features a simplified two-step insertion process, making it easier for patients to apply and manage their CGM system.
In clinical trials, participants spent an average of more than 93% of their time in SmartGuard mode, indicating high reliability and consistent performance. The study included 243 participants ranging from 2 to 80 years of age, demonstrating the sensor's applicability across a wide age range.
Market Availability and Implementation
Medtronic plans to begin a limited launch of the Simplera Sync sensor in the United States in fall 2025. Currently, the MiniMed 780G system is compatible with the Guardian 4 sensor, which will continue to be available as an option for users.
This approval provides users of the MiniMed 780G system with greater flexibility in choosing the CGM component that best suits their individual needs and preferences. The expansion of sensor options aligns with Medtronic's commitment to personalized diabetes management solutions.
Advancing Diabetes Care Technology
Medtronic Diabetes has been pioneering innovations in diabetes management for over 40 years. The company continues to focus on developing next-generation sensors, intelligent dosing systems, and leveraging data science and artificial intelligence to improve diabetes care.
The approval of the Simplera Sync sensor represents another step in Medtronic's ongoing efforts to reduce the burden of diabetes management through technological advancement. By providing more options and improving the user experience, Medtronic aims to help individuals with diabetes maintain better glycemic control while minimizing the daily challenges of disease management.
With this latest addition to its product portfolio, Medtronic reinforces its position as a leader in diabetes technology, continuing to develop solutions that empower patients and improve clinical outcomes in diabetes care.
