How to Store Insulin Products

Manufacturers recommend storing insulin in the refrigerator between 35 and 48 degrees Fahrenheit. However, for most patients, injecting cold insulin is more painful than injecting room temperature insulin. Because of this, providers and manufacturers recommend storing the vial or pen of insulin that you are using at room temperature. Most insulin lasts 10-42 days when it is stored at room temperature (for specific expiration dates, please see Table 1 below). Do not use insulin that has been out of the refrigerator longer than the days listed in the table.  It loses its effectiveness.  This may cause your blood sugars to be higher and lead to inappropriate dosing increases.

If you are buying multiple insulin vials or pens at one time, only keep the vial or pen that you are currently using at room temperature. Keep the other insulin vials or pens in the refrigerator. When stored in the refrigerator they will not expire until the date on the product packaging (not on the prescription label). When you are ready to use the next insulin vial or pen, take it out of the refrigerator one or two hours early. This will allow the insulin to warm up before it’s time to inject.  It will not be harmful to you to inject cold insulin, it just may not be as comfortable.

Insulin should not be stored in extreme heat or cold. Avoid keeping insulin in your car, in the freezer, or near a window in direct sunlight where it may be subject to extreme temperatures.

It is important that you check the expiration date listed on the vial or on the pen before injecting your insulin. Do not use any insulin that is beyond its expiration date because this insulin may not work properly which may cause complications.

After confirming that the insulin is not expired and is at room temperature, visually check the insulin itself before you inject. Some insulins should look clear and some are supposed to be gently mixed by rolling it in your hands and will look cloudy. Do not shake the insulin to mix as shaking will damage the insulin. No insulin should have solid particles, clumps, or be discolored. If the insulin contains solid particles, clumps, or is discolored, do not use the insulin and follow proper disposal protocols of unused medications. The table below lists which insulins are clear and which are cloudy. If you are unsure ask your pharmacist, diabetes educator or health care provider.

Table 1: Expiration Dates of Various Insulin Products

This Article is Brought to you By Our Guest Staff Writers:
Jacqueline Garner, PharmD Candidate 2017, MCPHS University
Jacob Oleck, Pharm.D. Fellow, MCPHS University
Jennifer Goldman, Pharm.D., CDE, BC-ADM, FCCP‎‎
Professor of Pharmacy, MCPHS University Clinical Pharmacist, Well Life Medical.