Medical technology3 min read
Artificial pancreas (automated insulin delivery)
An artificial pancreas is a three-part system that mimics how a healthy pancreas controls blood glucose: a continuous glucose monitor, a program that calculates insulin needs, and an insulin pump. It is mainly used for type 1 diabetes; the FDA approved a hybrid system in 2016.
According to NIDDK, the FDA approved a system in September 2016 for people aged 14 and over, and today some models are approved for children from age 2 and others from age 6.
These systems are not completely "hands-off"; most require you to count and enter the carbohydrates in meals. Researchers are developing systems that use two hormones instead of one. Any adjustment to the system or to insulin amounts is made with the treating team.
- In widespread clinical use
- Approved for specific uses
- In clinical trials
- Preclinical
- Concept
Systems approved by the FDA since 2016, used mainly by people with type 1 diabetes and some for children from age 2.
- Type 1 diabetesApproved for specific uses
Main use; some models are approved for children from age 2.1
- Dual-hormone systemsIn clinical trials
Being developed and tested by researchers.1
Status last checked: · What the maturity levels mean
What is it?
An artificial pancreas is a three-part system that works together to mimic how a healthy pancreas controls blood sugar.
How does it work?
The software calculates the amount of insulin needed based on readings from continuous glucose monitoring and sends a signal to the insulin pump.
Where is it used today?
It is used mainly to help people with type 1 diabetes.
The FDA approved a system in September 2016 for people aged 14 and over, and some models today are approved for children from age 2.
Limits and risks
It is not completely "hands-off"; most systems require you to count and enter the carbohydrates in meals.
Any adjustment of system settings or insulin amounts is made with the treating team.
Common questions
Does an artificial pancreas mean I will no longer need to manage my diabetes?
No. Most systems require carbohydrates to be counted and entered, and follow-up with the treating team continues.1
Questions for your doctor
- Am I or my child eligible for an automated insulin delivery system?
- What training is needed before using it?
References
- 1NIDDK (NIH). Artificial Pancreas. www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes/artificial-pancreasHealth agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-08
- 2NIDDK (NIH). Story of Discovery — Artificial Pancreas for Managing Type 1 Diabetes. www.niddk.nih.gov/news/archive/2017/story-discovery-artificial-pancreas-managing-type1-diabetesHealth agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-08
Review status: Edited content · Last updated:
Change log
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Educational content only — no diagnosis, and no substitute for a clinician.