Quick answer: Yes, Saxenda can be left out of the fridge, but only under specific conditions. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature, between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 30 days. However, unopened pens must stay refrigerated to remain safe and effective.
Imagine this: You're going about your day when suddenly you remember you forgot to put your Saxenda pen back in the fridge. Panic sets in. Is it ruined? Do you need a new one? Are you back to square one with your treatment?
Take a deep breath. In many cases, a Saxenda pen that's been left out is still okay to use, but there are still important storage rules you need to follow.
If you're new to using it, Saxenda is a prescription weight-loss medication that comes in a pre-filled injection pen. It works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in regulating appetite, helping you feel fuller longer.
Because Saxenda is a biological medication, proper storage is key to making sure it stays safe and effective.
In this blog, we'll cover exactly what to do if you forgot to refrigerate Saxenda, how long Saxenda can be left unrefrigerated, and when it's safer to replace it.
Can Saxenda be left out of the fridge?
Yes, Saxenda can be left out of the fridge, but only under certain conditions.
Once a Saxenda pen has been opened and you start using it, it can stay at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for up to 30 days.
However, unopened Saxenda pens must be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until you're ready to use them.
Related article: Does Saxenda Need to Be Refrigerated?
How long can Saxenda be left unrefrigerated?
- Unopened pens should not be left out of the refrigerator, but if they are left out at room temperature, they must be used or thrown away within 30 days.
🚨If Saxenda is exposed to high temperatures or left out too long, the medication can lose its effectiveness.
- Opened pens are safe for up to 30 days at room temperature if the temperature stays between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
💡Pro tip: Always mark your calendar when you start using a new pen so you know when the 30 days are up. Keeping track is important to make sure your medication stays effective.
Related article: How to Travel Safely with Saxenda: 10 Expert Tips to Keep Your Weight-Loss Pens Cool and Effective on the Go
How you store Saxenda matters: tips for safe storage
✅ Before first use: Keep Saxenda pens refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
✅ After opening: Store the pen at room temperature (below 86° or F30°C) and away from direct sunlight.
✅ Never freeze Saxenda! Freezing ruins the medication.
Read our full Saxenda storage guide here!
Following these storage tips helps protect the quality of your medication and ensures it works properly.
Related article: How Long Can Refrigerated Medicines Be Left Out?
Forgot to refrigerate Saxenda? Here's what happens
We get it, life happens, and sometimes storing your medication doesn't go exactly as planned.
Even if your Saxenda pens weren't refrigerated, they still might be safe to use. This all depends on where and how long your Saxenda was left out.
Room temperature isn't always safe
Novo Nordisk, Saxenda's manufacturer, defines room temperature as between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
However, in some homes, especially in the summer or in warm climates, temperatures inside can easily climb past 86°F (30°C). If the temperature gets too high, it can cause Saxenda to break down faster and lose potency.
Check the time frame
💡Remember: Once you've started using a Saxenda pen, it can safely be stored at room temperature (below 86°F or 30°C) for up to 30 days.If you're still within this time frame and your pen hasn't been exposed to heat above 86°F, it's very likely still safe to use.
That said, always take a moment to inspect the pen: check that the liquid is clear, colorless, and free of particles.When in doubt, it's always best to play it safe and check with your pharmacist/healthcare provider or use a new pen.
Related article: What Foods Should You Avoid While on Saxenda? Plus a Few Tips for Your Saxenda Diet Plan!
I left my Saxenda out overnight: What now?
If you left your Saxenda out of the fridge overnight, keep in mind the guidelines we just explained and ask yourself:
Was my medication exposed to temperatures higher than 86°F (30°C)?
If the answer is no, you should be good to go. Just be sure to use it within 30 days!
After 30 days, discard the medication even if it isn't empty.
Signs that Saxenda may have gone bad
It's important to double-check your Saxenda pen before using it, especially if it was left out by accident.
A quick visual check of the medication inside the pen can help you catch any signs that it may no longer be safe.
Signs that Saxenda has gone bad include:
⚠️ Cloudiness
⚠️ Discoloration
⚠️ Visible particles
If you notice anything unusual, do not use it. It's safer to get a new pen than risk injecting a damaged medication.
Final tips for what to do if you forgot to put Saxenda in the fridge
Forgetting to refrigerate your Saxenda isn't the end of the world, but it's important to know the rules to keep your medication safe and effective.
As long as you stay within the temperature and time guidelines, you're likely in the clear.
Key Take Aways:
Let's quickly review the key points to remember!
💉 Opened Saxenda pens can stay at room temperature (under 86°F/30°C) for up to 30 days.
❄️ Unopened Saxenda pens must stay refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).
⚠️ Signs of bad Saxenda include cloudiness, discoloration, or visible particles-don't use if you spot them.
📅 Track your 30 days once you start using a pen to make sure your Saxenda stays safe and effective.
We'd Love to Hear From You!
💬 Have you ever forgotten to refrigerate your Saxenda pen? How did you deal with the situation? We'd love to hear your experience, tips, or questions! Share them in the comments down below.
📆 Article Update History:
Originally Published: May 1, 2025
