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Wegovy can be kept outside the refrigerator with the pen cap still on for up to 28 days, provided the temperature remains between 46°F and 86°F (8°C and 30°C).
Optimal storage conditions for Wegovy
Wegovy should ideally be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) to maintain its efficacy and extend its shelf life. When refrigerated, keep the pens in their original carton to protect them from light.
For room temperature storage, ensure the temperature stays below 86°F (30°C) and keep the medication away from direct light sources. Avoid storing Wegovy near cooling elements in the refrigerator to prevent freezing, and do not place it in crisper drawers or refrigerator doors where temperature and humidity may fluctuate. When traveling, keep Wegovy in its original packaging and avoid exposing it to extreme heat or direct sunlight.
Impact of temperature on Wegovy’s stability
Temperature plays a crucial role in maintaining Wegovy’s stability and effectiveness. Exposure to temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can cause the medication to degrade prematurely, potentially reducing its efficacy or rendering it unsafe for use. Freezing temperatures should also be avoided, as they can damage the drug’s molecular structure.
If Wegovy is accidentally left unrefrigerated for a short period, it may still be safe to use as long as it hasn’t exceeded the 28-day room temperature limit and wasn’t exposed to extreme heat. However, it’s important to note that returning Wegovy to the refrigerator after room temperature storage will not extend its shelf life beyond the initial 28-day period.
Guidelines for returning Wegovy to the fridge
Once Wegovy has been removed from the refrigerator, it should not be returned to cold storage. The medication can be kept at room temperature (between 46°F to 86°F or 8°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days, but placing it back in the fridge will not extend this period. After being out of refrigeration,
Wegovy must be used within 28 days or discarded, even if it is put back in the fridge. To keep track, it’s advisable to write down the date when the pen was first removed from refrigeration. This practice helps ensure the medication’s efficacy and safety throughout its use.
What happens if Wegovy is not refrigerated?
If Wegovy is not refrigerated, its stability and effectiveness can be compromised depending on how long it remains unrefrigerated and the temperature conditions it is exposed to. Here are the key points to understand:
- Short-term unrefrigerated storage: Wegovy can remain stable at room temperature (46°F to 86°F or 8°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days without significant loss of potency. This allows for some flexibility in storage and use.
- Extended unrefrigerated periods: If Wegovy is left unrefrigerated for more than 28 days, it begins to lose its effectiveness. Laboratory tests by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, confirm that the medication’s potency decreases after this period.
- Safety concerns: Using Wegovy that has been unrefrigerated for more than 28 days is not recommended, as it may pose risks to health due to potential degradation of the medication. Even if there is still medicine left in the pen, it should be disposed of after 28 days at room temperature.
- Temperature extremes: Exposure to temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can cause the medication to degrade more rapidly, potentially reducing its efficacy or making it unsafe for use. Similarly, freezing temperatures can damage the drug’s molecular structure and should be avoided.
- Visible changes: If Wegovy has been improperly stored, there may be visible changes in the liquid, such as cloudiness or particles. In such cases, the medication should not be used and should be discarded.
- No refrigeration recovery: Once Wegovy has been kept at room temperature, returning it to the refrigerator will not restore its potency or extend its usability beyond the 28-day period.
It’s crucial to follow proper storage guidelines to maintain the medication’s effectiveness and safety. If there’s any doubt about whether Wegovy has been stored correctly, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist before using it
How long should Wegovy be out of the fridge before injecting?
Wegovy (semaglutide) can be injected immediately after removing it from the refrigerator, as there is no specific waiting period required before administration. However, some patients may prefer to let the pen warm up slightly before injection for comfort reasons.
If you choose to let Wegovy warm up before injecting, it’s generally recommended that you remove the pen from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before use. This allows the medication to reach room temperature, which can make the injection more comfortable and potentially reduce injection site reactions.
It’s important to note that Wegovy should never be heated artificially (e.g., using hot water, microwave, or other heating methods) to speed up the warming process. Such actions could damage the medication and render it ineffective or unsafe.
When preparing for injection, always check that the Wegovy liquid in the pen is clear and colorless. If it appears cloudy, discolored, or contains particles, do not use the pen and contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Remember that once Wegovy is removed from the refrigerator, it can be stored at room temperature (between 46°F to 86°F or 8°C to 30°C) for up to 28 days. However, it’s crucial to keep track of when the pen was first removed from refrigeration, as it must be used within this 28-day period or discarded, even if medication remains.
For patients who find the cold injection uncomfortable, consistently removing the pen 30-60 minutes before injection can be incorporated into their weekly routine. This practice can help ensure a more comfortable administration while still maintaining the medication’s efficacy and safety.
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the handling and administration of Wegovy. If you have any concerns or questions about proper medication use, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional.