What is the NovoPen Echo Plus smart pen?
NovoPen¹ Echo Plus is an advanced, reusable insulin pen that allows dosing from 0.5 to 30 units. This new generation comes with an integrated NFC chip that enables direct connection to the LibreLink app for continuous glucose monitoring.
Additional features of the smart pen
On the pen’s screen, it is now displayed in a slightly different/better way to see the exact time and the last insulin dose taken:
The number of units taken is shown above, and the time of dosing below
In addition to displaying the amount of insulin and the exact time of the last dose on the screen, the pen has internal memory that stores insulin-use data for the past three months. These data can be viewed through the LibreLink app. This means you no longer need to manually record every dose — you can simply check the history in the app.
Using the pen in the LibreLink app
The Abbott LibreLink app supports the use of smart pens, including of course the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensors. Connecting the pen to the app is simple, and the app guides you through the entire registration process.
The app itself is intuitive and easy to navigate, as is the display of data from the smart pen. It is also important to mention that there is an option to mark the insulin flow check before priming. Simply release 0.5 units into the air to make sure insulin is coming out correctly, and then mark this dose in LibreLink as a test dose.
LibreLink and the LibreView online platform
It is important to highlight that glucose data and injections taken with NovoPen Echo+ can automatically be shown to the doctor to whom we have granted access on LibreView. There is no longer any need to keep a self-monitoring diary or write down insulin units. Everything is automatically available to the (interested) doctor.
Conclusion
As someone who loves technology and gadgets, I was impressed by the smart pen as soon as I heard about it. I am very satisfied with the additional features of the smart pen and now I keep my insulin records much more precisely and in greater detail.
It speeds up the process when I’m in a hurry, at work, or during important events in life 😊
I would especially highlight the possibility of dosing in 0.5-unit increments, which is useful for people who need small doses. Also, the reduced insulin flow force means less tissue damage and less pain when injecting.
Although one can live without a smart pen, the benefits it brings are significant. Reduced insulin flow force, memory that records all doses, and the possibility of precise dosing make the NovoPen Echo Plus an extremely useful tool in everyday life with diabetes.
Author: Tea Morena
