Does Ozempic need to be refrigerated?

Updated on Aug 18, 2024 • 3 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Ozempic should be stored in your refrigerator until its first use to maintain its effectiveness. Keep it away from the coldest parts of your fridge to prevent the medication from freezing.
  • After the first use, Ozempic can be stored at room temperature (59°F to 86°F or 15°C to 30°C) for up to 56 days. It should be stored with the pen cap on and in a cool, dark place.
  • If you're carrying your Ozempic pens while travelling, be sure to store them in a temperature-controlled container. For air travel, bring your Ozempic pens with you through security, instead of packing them in your checked luggage.

Ozempic is a medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and sometimes prescribed for weight loss. To make sure it works correctly, it's important to store it the right way. This article will guide you through the dos and don'ts of Ozempic storage, including whether it needs to be kept in the fridge.

1. Proper care and storage for your Ozempic

Refrigeration guidelines

To keep Ozempic effective, store it in the refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). This is crucial before its first use. Once you start using the pen, you can continue to store it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Room temperature storage

After the first use, Ozempic can be stored at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 56 days. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Avoiding freezing and overheating

Never freeze Ozempic. If it gets frozen, it should be discarded immediately. Also, avoid exposing it to high temperatures above 86°F (30°C). High temperatures can degrade the medication, making it less effective for you.

Packing tips for travel

When traveling with Ozempic, it's crucial to store it safely and keep it away from temperature extremes. If you're travelling by air, always keep your Ozempic pen in your carry-on bag to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures in the cargo hold. Use a small cooler with an ice pack to maintain the correct temperature.

2. What happens if Ozempic is not refrigerated?

Impact on medication efficacy

If Ozempic is not properly refrigerated before its first use, the active ingredient, semaglutide, can degrade. This means the medication may not work as well. It's crucial to store Ozempic within the recommended temperature range to maintain its effectiveness.

Signs of compromised Ozempic

Properly stored Ozempic should be clear and odorless. There are a few signs that your Ozempic may have been compromised due to improper storage:

  • Change in color or clarity of the liquid.
  • Unusual odor
  • Visible particles in the solution

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the pen and consult your healthcare provider.

Steps to take if left unrefrigerated

If you accidentally leave your Ozempic pen out of the refrigerator before its first use, follow these steps:

  1. Check the temperature range it was exposed to.
  2. Inspect the pen for any signs of compromise.
  3. If in doubt, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Remember, Ozempic pens are good for up to 56 days after being removed from the fridge. Always keep track of the date you first used the pen to ensure its efficacy.

3. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Storing next to cooling elements in your fridge

One common mistake is storing Ozempic next to cooling elements inside your fridge's walls. This can cause the medication to freeze, which can make it ineffective. Always store Ozempic away from the walls in your fridge to avoid this issue.

Exposure to direct sunlight

Another mistake is leaving Ozempic in direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the medication to overheat, which can also reduce its effectiveness. Keep Ozempic in a cool, shaded place to maintain its efficacy.

Forgetting to cap the pen

Forgetting to cap the Ozempic pen after use is another frequent error. This can expose the medication to air and contaminants, potentially compromising its quality. Always remember to cap the pen immediately after use.

The bottom line

In summary, Ozempic needs to be refrigerated before its first use to ensure it works properly. After you start using it, you can keep it either in the fridge or at room temperature for up to 56 days. Just make sure to avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Proper storage is key to making sure your medication stays safe and effective. Always follow the guidelines and check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions.

Frequently asked questions about storing Ozempic

Can you freeze Ozempic?

No, you should not freeze Ozempic. Freezing can damage the medication and make it ineffective. Always store your Ozempic pens in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) before first use.

How long can Ozempic be left out?

Ozempic can be left out at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 56 days after first use. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Can you put Ozempic back in the fridge?

If Ozempic has been left out at temperatures above 86°F (30°C) or has been frozen, it is not recommended to use it anymore. Contact your healthcare provider for specific advice based on how long and at what temperature the medication was left out.

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