How To Store Semaglutide
These days, we are fortunate enough to have options in regards to the form of semaglutide we find most convenient. The medication is available packaged as a name-brand injector pen, a compounded version dispensed in a sealed vial, or in tablet form for those who prefer an oral option. Make sure you read the instructions for your exact formulation of semaglutide to ensure you understand how to maintain it properly for both your safety and to ensure the effectiveness of the medication.
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| Type | Temperature range for storage | Unopened storage timeline | Opened storage timeline | Additional notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prefilled Injectable Pens | In the fridge 36°F to 46°F (do not freeze) | Until expiration | 28 days | Can also be stored at room temp up to 28 days out of direct sunlight |
| Compounded Vials | Follow storage instructions from the pharmacy | Varies and depends on the date it was compounded | Usually expires after about 28 days | Refrigeration may be necessary or optional so refer to included directions |
| Oral Tablets | 68°F to 77°F | Until expiration | Until expiration | Store in the original bottle to protect it from moisture and avoid direct light |
It is important to store your semaglutide prescription properly to ensure it remains safe and effective. Always follow the specific guidelines for your medication type, and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Injectable Semaglutide Pens (Ozempic, Wegovy)
- Unopened pens can be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F until the expiration date or they can be kept at room temperature up to 86°F for up to 56 days. They must never be frozen and need to be kept out of direct sunlight.
- Opened pens of Wegovy are used only once and then discarded but Ozempic pens are used multiple times with a new needle needed for every use. Ozempic pens can be stored in the fridge between 36°F and 46°F until the expiration date. Once they are opened they can be stored either in the refrigerator or at room temperature (59°F to 86°F) for up to 28 days. If you live in a very hot climate, it is recommended that you store your pens in the refrigerator. Always keep the pen cap on when not in use and protect it from direct sunlight.
Compounded Semaglutide
Compounded semaglutide is made by a specially licensed compounding pharmacy using ingredients that are sourced from registered FDA suppliers. They can contain additional ingredients that may require specific handling, so make sure to read the directions for storage provided by the pharmacy.
- Unopened compounded semaglutide vials can be kept in the refrigerator until the expiration date or at room temperature for about 60 days. Since compounded versions of semaglutide usually contain other ingredients, you need to refer to the storage directions for your specific semaglutide formulation.
- Open vials of compounded semaglutide have been exposed to air and can be refrigerated or stored at room temperatures of around 77°F for 28 days and then discarded. Avoid exposure to temperatures above 104°F and sunlight.
Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus)
Oral semaglutide tablets should be stored at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F in their original bottle with the blue cap to ensure they are protected from excess moisture (the cap contains a drying agent). These tablets should not be stored in a pill organizer or removed from their original packaging until you are ready to take them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Semaglutide Storage
What Signs Indicate That Compounded Semaglutide Has Been Improperly Stored?
Signs of improper storage may include changes in the medication’s appearance, such as discoloration, cloudiness, or the presence of particles. If you notice any of these changes, do not use the medication and consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Proper storage of compounded semaglutide is crucial to ensure its efficacy and safety. Always follow the storage guidelines provided by your compounding pharmacy and consult healthcare professionals if you have any questions or concerns.
Does Semaglutide Need To Be Refrigerated?
Your semaglutide prescription may require refrigeration, so it is important to check the storage instructions for your exact formulation. Name-brand semaglutide injections normally require refrigeration before opening up to the expiration date, but can be stored at room temperature for almost four weeks if needed. Compounded semaglutide formulations may have varying storage directions depending on the ingredients they contain.
How Long Can Semaglutide Stay Unrefrigerated?
Some formulations of semaglutide can be left unopened at room temperature for up to 60 days, and others need to be used within 28 days if not kept in the refrigerator. Semaglutide pens and vials should never be allowed to freeze. Oral semaglutide tablets should only be kept at room temperature and should not be put in the fridge. To ensure you are using the correct storage method for your semaglutide prescription, make sure to read the directions enclosed with your medication.
Where Can I Find Online Access To Semaglutide Injections?
If you are tired of working hard to lose weight on your own and seeing no results, medical intervention with semaglutide injections may be just what you need. The medication works together with your body’s naturally manufactured hormones to streamline your metabolism and make it easier for your efforts to result in weight loss.
Set up a virtual or in-person consultation with Dr. Angelina Postoev at MySlimMed so she can help you determine if semaglutide would be a good option for you. Contact us now to see if you qualify and get started with semaglutide injections to help you reach sustainable weight loss.
