MiniMed Adds Abbott’s Dual Glucose-Ketone Sensor to Portfolio

MiniMed revealed an expanded agreement with Abbott to partner on commercializing dual glucose-ketone sensors designed to integrate exclusively with MiniMed smart dosing systems.

The dual monitoring sensors were engineered for early, real-time detection of rising ketones to help prevent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The agreement adds to the duo’s existing partnership for Abbott’s Instinct sensor and will provide MiniMed users more choice across its automated insulin delivery and Smart MDI systems.

DKA causes hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations yearly in the U.S. and is the leading cause of death in children and adults under age 58 with type 1 diabetes. The complication happens when the bodt doesn’t have enough insulin to use glucose as energy and instead begins breaking down fat for fuel, leading to a buildup of acid-like ketones.

Ketones can rise independently of glucose levels and in some cases, even when blood sugar appears to be in range, delaying detection of DKA risk. Today, ketone monitoring needs separate fingerstick blood tests or urine strips that are often performed only after symptoms have appeared.

The sensors will be the same size as the Instinct sensor, which is hailed as the world’s smallest and thinnest sensor. The companies aim to offer more updates on regulatory and commercialization milestones in the upcoming months.

“By integrating dual glucose-ketone monitoring sensors with our MiniMed smart dosing systems, we’re adding an additional layer of intelligence and protection,” said Que Dallara, CEO of MiniMed. “Our system is designed to keep people in tight glucose control and minimize DKA risk through smarter, more consistent automation—intervening before it ever becomes an emergency. This partnership with Abbott takes that commitment even further. At MiniMed, our mission is to make every day a better day for people with diabetes, and that means relentlessly pursuing innovations that not only improve outcomes but also deliver genuine peace of mind.”

In March, the company obtained U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for MiniMed Flex, a next-gen discreet, smartphone-controlled insulin pump.