Author Topic: Insulin pump  (Read 1838 times)

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Offline rising_creek

Insulin pump
« on: March 25, 2021, 03:03:31 pm »
Planning a tour from Seattle to Atlanta. Mostly camp. How do I keep insulin at safe temp in warm weather? How can i ship pump / cgm supplies to myself on the tour (warm showers or general delivery thru post office or...)? Can I claim less than my full script of humalog insulin so not to hav too much on tour? Thanks

Offline HikeBikeCook

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Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #1 on: March 25, 2021, 05:05:07 pm »
Could you transfer your prescription to a national chain of drug stores and pick it up in small batches? What is the suggested storage temp? I have a rear rack bag I use for tools, tubes, etc., that is actually a cooler bag designed to hold a six pack. I got it from LL Bean 20 years ago. I would think you could add extra insulation and add ice along the way. Ice melts and causes a mess, but if is in a separate bag and behind you maybe it will be less of a problem. 
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Offline ray b

Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #2 on: March 25, 2021, 09:10:24 pm »
Planning a tour from Seattle to Atlanta. Mostly camp. How do I keep insulin at safe temp in warm weather? How can i ship pump / cgm supplies to myself on the tour (warm showers or general delivery thru post office or...)? Can I claim less than my full script of humalog insulin so not to hav too much on tour? Thanks

These are all good questions, and I don't mean to punt, but as an academic endocrinologist, I usually ask my team of diabetes educators (which includes a PharmD) what they think.

I'll note that outside the body, insulin can last a long time at 90 degrees. The bigger risk for potency is freezing. I've camped in the winter with patients with type 1 diabetes who literally keep their insulin on their body at all times.

The current recommendations from the manufacturers, as you know, is that insulin can be stored in unopened or opened vials at up to 86 deg F for 28 days. A simple insulated pouch should do the trick, but as you know, if you are on the mailing lists, there are a lot of companies who would be happy to sell you cooling gel packs, temperature controlled caps, and other things to keep the worry level down. One of my favorites is the small Frio wallet that will hold three vials of insulin and is activated by water. https://www.frioinsulincoolingcase.com/product/extra-small-wallet/

If you're going to hit Atlanta in the summer, you might want to ask your educators what they recommend. As you know, Atlanta is also the original home of Team Type 1 which is now Team Novo Nordisk. If you're making this kind of a ride, you have every right to reach out to them to ask for advice.

I usually recommend getting prescriptions into a national chain of pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS to allow you to refresh your supply of insulin (and catheters, CGMs, etc.) as often as you want.

Yes, any pharmacist will allow partial fill on any prescription.
“A good man always knows his limitations.”

Offline Westinghouse

Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #3 on: March 25, 2021, 11:56:26 pm »
There are thermal bags. You should be able to get ice along the way, but with what degree of sureness and regularity is anyone's guess.

Offline rising_creek

Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #4 on: March 28, 2021, 01:17:09 am »
Thanks for the info. All the input is most appreciated & needed =)

Offline canalligators

Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #5 on: March 28, 2021, 04:03:04 pm »
Adventure Cyclist April 2019 had its lead story about touring with Type 1.  It had a number of hints and tips, including dealing with insulin.  Members can access previous issues.  I remember the article being factual and having practical advice.

I paid attention for possible future reference, as I’m a controlled T2. 

Have you thought out power for your pump?  I’d think today’s power packs would have enough reserve power.
« Last Edit: March 28, 2021, 04:04:52 pm by canalligators »

Offline David W Pratt

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Re: Insulin pump
« Reply #6 on: April 03, 2021, 04:14:25 pm »
What Canalagators said. Also, ask the pump manufacturer. They may have had similar requests, or know of other users who have done similar.  They could be terrified that something will go wrong, or delighted that their pump enables such independence.  good luck.