MEDTRONIC TOUTS NEW INSULIN PUMP.

Byline: Evan Pondel Staff Writer

NORTHRIDGE - Medtronic MiniMed introduced its first water-resistant insulin pump Monday, a device the company hopes will enable diabetics to lead a more active lifestyle.

``Diabetes is a very difficult disease to cope with, but insulin therapy doesn't have to be, especially with this new pump,'' said Deanne McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Minnesota-based company that operates a facility in Northridge.

The Paradigm pump delivers a steady stream of insulin to diabetes patients without requiring manual injections. Worn on a belt like a pager, the pump differs from its predecessor in its ability to withstand water depths up to eight feet.

It is covered by most insurance plans, costs about $5,000 and is powered by an AAA battery.

``This a far more superior alternative to other products,'' said Dr. Charles Raine of South Carolina, a diabetic and a specialist in treating the disease.

Raine has worn an insulin pump around his waist for several years. He said that while there are a few insulin pumps on the market, he prefers the Paradigm because of its simplified design.

``For this reason, it will be a big benefit for kids,'' Raine said. ``I mean I wouldn't recommend going swimming with one of these things on, but the pump is still perfect for going to the beach where it might get a splash here and a splash there.''

The Paradigm has a screen, similar to the menu on an automated teller, which allows patients to manage their insulin levels. It also comes equipped with a remote control, allowing the wearer to discreetly deliver the insulin.

``This a nice characteristic for women who would like to wear a dress, but don't like the bulging properties of a pump,'' Raine said.

Medtronic hasn't projected sales of the new pump but McLaughlin said the company anticipates strong demand.

``The pump is meant to appeal to more people and brings us closer to creating an artificial pancreas,'' she said.

Though the company has products that measure the blood's insulin levels, Medtronic has yet to introduce an all-inclusive device, similar to a pancreas, that monitors and dispenses insulin.

``We're getting closer, though, to that reality,'' McLaughlin said.

That's positive news for about 16 million Americans who suffer from the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Raine said even though there is no cure for diabetes, products like Paradigm ease the burden of receiving insulin shots.