Essential tips and advice on how to store your insulin

As you may know, insulin is a highly temperature and light sensitive medication. In order for insulin to be as effective in lowering your blood glucose levels it must be stored correctly to avoid in lack of effectiveness which could lead to increased risk of a hypoglycemic attack.

Here are a few tips on storing your insulin to help maintain the safe use of your medication:

*Unopened vials can be used until the expiration date on the label and carton, as long as they have been stored in refrigeration.

*Unopened vials should be disposed of after 28 days, if they are stored at room temperature outside of refrigeration.

*If your insulin is frozen, DO NOT USE. Even if it thaws out, do not use your insulin as the freezing temperature will break down the insulin and it will not work to lower your blood sugar levels. Dispose immediately.

Additional tips and safety concerns:

1.Always inspect your insulin before use: Look for changes in color or clarity. Insulin that is clear should remain clear at all times, prior to use. Examine your insulin for any clumps, solid white particles, or crystals in your vial or pen. If there are any abnormalities do not use.

2.Never use expired insulin: Like all medications, you should never use insulin past its expiration date which should be written or stamped on the vial, pen or carton. Please remember the expiration date does not apply if insulin is not stored properly. (If unopened and stored outside of refrigeration you will have 28 days to use prior to medication perishing) Remember to store your unopened insulin in refrigeration to maintain it’s life expectancy until expiration date while its not being used.

3.Never use your insulin past 28 days after opened. According to The Committee for Proprietary Medicinal Products, insulin is like other sterile products and has a maximum of a 28 day in-use period and must retain at least 95% of its labeled potency to maintain its effectiveness.

4.Contact someone: If you have any questions or problems concerning your insulin please contact your insulin manufacturer.