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Efficacy and Safety of Stage 5 Connected Insulin Pens in Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes: Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol (SMART-5 Study)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGRUOUND: Stage 2 or 3 connected insulin pens (CIPs) refer to tracking insulin pens that are capable of transmitting insulin dose data via cloud connectivity. Stage 4 CIPs feature a bolus calculator that determines appropriate insulin doses based on real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data, carbohydrate intake, previous dosing history, and preset parameters. Stage 5 CIPs additionally offer advanced decision-support features, such as education modules and coaching. However, the efficacy and safety of stage 5 CIPs have not yet been established. METHODS: In this prospective, open-label, parallel-group, multicenter, randomized controlled trial, we will include adults aged ≥19 and <75 years with type 1 or type 2 diabetes receiving multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) and having glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of 7.5% to 12.0%. In total, 152 participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either stage 5 CIPs with CGM or tracking insulin pens with CGM. Stage 5 CIPs include a Setup Wizard that recommends individualized initial settings and an algorithm that provides advanced insulin dosing guidance based on analyses of each participant's CGM and insulin injection data. The primary outcome will be the change in HbA1c levels from baseline to week 12 (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT07004153). CONCLUSION: This trial (Stage 5 connected insulin pen for MDI with Advanced decision support in a Randomized Trial [SMART-5 Study]) will determine whether stage 5 CIPs are superior to tracking insulin pens in improving glycemic control among adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes treated with MDI. Overall, this study may offer a promising strategy for enhancing the management and outcomes of patients with diabetes.

Source: Endocrinology and Metabolism

DOI: 10.3803/enm.2025.2579