Does Wegovy need to be refrigerated?

Updated on Aug 19, 2024 • 3 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Wegovy 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, Wegovy can be stored at room temperature (59°F to 86°F or 15°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days. It should be stored with the pen cap on and in a cool, dark place.
  • If you're carrying your Wegovy pens while travelling, be sure to store them in a temperature-controlled container. For air travel, bring your Wegovy pens with you through security, instead of packing them in your checked luggage.

Storing your Wegovy correctly helps ensure you get the most value out of each dose. Most of the time, you should keep your Wegovy in the fridge, but there are times when you can keep it at room temperature. Correctly storing your Wegovy is easy once you know what to look for - here are our best tips:

1. Proper care and storage for your Wegovy

Refrigeration guidelines

To keep Wegovy 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, Wegovy can be stored at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Avoiding freezing and overheating

Never freeze Wegovy. 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 Wegovy, it's crucial to store it safely and keep it away from temperature extremes. If you're travelling by air, always keep your Wegovy 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 Wegovy is not refrigerated?

Impact on medication efficacy

If Wegovy 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 Wegovy within the recommended temperature range to maintain its effectiveness.

Signs of compromised Wegovy

Properly stored Wegovy should be clear and odorless. There are a few signs that your Wegovy 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 Wegovy 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, Wegovy pens are good for up to 28 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 Wegovy next to cooling elements inside your fridge's walls. This can cause the medication to freeze, which can make it ineffective. Always store Wegovy away from the walls in your fridge to avoid this issue.

Exposure to direct sunlight

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

Forgetting to cap the pen

Forgetting to cap the Wegovy 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, Wegovy 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 28 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 Wegovy

Can you freeze Wegovy?

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

How long can Wegovy be left out?

Wegovy can be left out at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days after first use. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Can you put Wegovy back in the fridge?

If Wegovy 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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