How does V-Go compare to Omnipod 5?

Both V-Go and [Omnipod 5](https://www.goodrx.com/omnipod-5/what-is) are tubeless insulin delivery devices. One difference is that V-Go can't monitor your blood glucose levels — you need to monitor them yourself. This is compared to the Omnipod 5, which can work together with the [Dexcom G6](https://www.goodrx.com/dexcom-g6/what-is) (a [continuous glucose monitoring device](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/diabetes/cgm-a1c)) to monitor your blood glucose levels and automatically adjust your insulin dose. The Omnipod 5 contains up to 3 days of insulin, whereas the V-Go must be replaced every 24 hours.

V-Go

Used for Diabetes Type 2

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V-Go is wearable insulin device that helps control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Each V-Go kit comes with 30 disposable devices (sometimes referred to as "patches") that you fill with insulin using the EZ fill device that's also included in the kit. Each V-Go patch can be worn once daily, so you need a new patch every day. You can place the V-Go patch where you typically inject your insulin on the skin. You'll need to get separate prescription for U-100 fast-acting insulin from your provider since insulin isn't included in the kit.

Reviewed by:

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Allison Gourley, PharmD

Last reviewed on December 8, 2022

Basics Pharmacist tips FAQs Dosage Cost Alternatives Prices Medicare

What is V-Go?

What is V-Go used for?

Continuous insulin infusion in adults requiring insulin

Drug facts

Common BrandsV-Go

Drug ClassInsulin delivery system

Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication

Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available

AvailabilityPrescription only

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Avg retail price

$641.94(Save 8.89%)

GoodRx discount

$584.84

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Pharmacist tips for V-Go

How to set up your V-Go:

Each one-month supply of V-Go comes with one EZ Fill device (where you'll load your insulin vials) and 30 once-daily wearable patches.
Always wash your hands before filling the EZ fill and applying the V-Go patch to prevent infection.
To start, fill the EZ Fill with insulin by removing the protective cap on the insulin vial and wiping it with an alcohol swab. Pull the cap out of the insulin vial holder on the EZ Fill and place your insulin vial upside down inside. Push firmly until you can't push anymore, and check the insulin supply window.
When you're ready to fill a V-Go patch, remove the EZ Fill from the refrigerator and allow the insulin to reach room temperature (about 20 minutes).
Slide the V-Go patch up into the EZ Fill drawer and push the drawer all the way closed. Keep the EZ Fill upright when filling.
Make sure the plunger is in the down position before starting. Slowly pull the plunger up as far as it can go and wait 5 seconds. Then, push the plunger down all the way down over at least 25 seconds to fill the V-Go patch.
Remove the V-Go patch [atcj by holding the EZ Fill in a sideways position and lift the V-Go up with your thumb and forefinger.
Place the plug back into the EZ Fill and store it in the refrigerator until your next V-Go fill.

How to start using your V-Go:

Choose a site on your body where you normally inject insulin (e.g., stomach or back of the arm) and wipe it with an alcohol swab. Let the area dry.
Remove the button cover and the protective liner on your V-Go patch. Then, press V-Go patch against the skin and hold it in place for 5-10 seconds.
Press down on the Start Button until you hear a click. Your V-Go will start releasing insulin and will continue to do so for the next 24 hours.
In addition to the basal insulin, each V-Go patch can deliver up to another 36 units of insulin. This extra insulin is meant to be used as bolus insulin, or insulin that you need for meal or snack times. You can manually give yourself insulin boluses by pressing the Bolus Delivery Button. Each press of the button delivers 2 units of insulin, and you might need to press the button more than once. Your provider will instruct you on how and when to use your bolus doses of insulin.
After 24 hours, remove your V-Go and replace it with a new, filled V-Go at a different location to prevent skin irritation.
If you have questions about how often to use bolus doses and monitor your blood glucose levels, speak with your provider.

Common questions about V-Go

V-Go is available in three different options (V-Go 20, V-Go 30, and V-Go 40). Each option comes with 30 disposable patches that you'll need to change out daily. They differ in terms of how much background (basal) insulin each patch can provide. For example, the V-Go 20 patch can infuse 20 units of basal insulin daily, whereas the V-Go 40 patch can infuse 40 units of basal insulin daily. All 3 V-Go patches can give up to an additional 36 units on-demand, if you need more insulin for meal or snack times. Another difference is how many insulin vials are needed to fill the V-Go systems. For example, the V-Go 20 require two vials of insulin, whereas the V-Go 30 and V-Go 40 both require three vials. Your provider can help you select the best option to meet your insulin needs.

You can wear the V-Go in any place that insulin can be injected. Some examples include your stomach (must be 1-inch away from the belly button or scars, and try to avoid areas where clothing might rub or press on it) and on the backside of the arm (not on the muscle or elbow bone). If you place V-Go on the backside of the arm, make sure you can see the viewing window when you rotate your arm, either directly or using a mirror. Never place the V-Go on skin that's tender, bruised, red, or hard, since this could affect the way it works and cause more damage to the area.

Yes, you can shower while wearing V-Go. V-Go can work in water up to about 3 feet for up to 24 hours. This means that you can bathe or swim close to the water's surface while wearing it. But it's not known if it works in depths below 3 feet, or in very hot temperatures (e.g., hot tubs).

No. After 24 hours of wearing V-Go, it might not provide your continuous dose of insulin properly. Make sure to change V-Go at the same time each day, every 24 hours.

It's possible that the adhesive (sticky) pad on V-Go can cause red and sore skin. Your provider can help you find products like adhesive removers that can help with skin sensitivity. If you experience redness, irritation, or swelling around the V-Go, remove it and place a new V-Go on a new body site. Contact your provider and let them know so they can make sure you don't have an infection and help you treat the irritation.

Both V-Go and Omnipod 5 are tubeless insulin delivery devices. One difference is that V-Go can't monitor your blood glucose levels — you need to monitor them yourself. This is compared to the Omnipod 5, which can work together with the Dexcom G6 (a continuous glucose monitoring device) to monitor your blood glucose levels and automatically adjust your insulin dose. The Omnipod 5 contains up to 3 days of insulin, whereas the V-Go must be replaced every 24 hours.