Quick Answer: Yes, Wegovy does expire. Like all medications, it has a clearly marked expiration date printed on the packaging. Using Wegovy after its expiration date is not recommended, as the medication may lose potency, effectiveness, and safety.
If you're using Wegovy (semaglutide) injections for weight loss or long-term weight management, you know how important it is to store and handle it properly. One of the most common concerns people have is: "Does Wegovy expire?" And if so, what happens if you accidentally use an expired dose?
This article breaks down everything you need to know about Wegovy's expiration date, how to store it properly (both in and out of the fridge), and what to do if your medication is past its prime.
Related article: Wegovy Storage Guide: How to Refrigerate and Handle Temperatures for Your Wegovy Pens at Home.
Does Wegovy Have an Expiration Date?
Yes, each Wegovy pen comes with a clearly printed expiration date on both the pen and the packaging. This date is determined by the manufacturer based on how long the medication remains stable and effective under recommended storage conditions.
If your Wegovy pen is past its printed expiration date, it may not deliver the same therapeutic effect. It's not just a recommendation-it's a safety guideline. Always check the box and the pen before injecting Wegovy to make sure it's still good and safe for use.
How Long Does Wegovy Last in the Fridge?
When stored properly in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C), Wegovy remains effective until its printed expiration date. This date usually occurs about one year after the purchase date. Unopened pens should always be kept refrigerated to maintain maximum potency.
Once the pen is removed from the fridge and stored at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C), it can be used for up to 28 days. After that, even if the expiration date hasn't passed, it should no longer be used.
Related article: Can You Inject Wegovy Cold Straight From the Fridge or Should it Warm Up Before?
How Long Is Wegovy Good For Out of the Fridge?
Once Wegovy has been removed from the refrigerator, the clock starts ticking. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, recommends that Wegovy be used within 28 days if stored at room temperature not exceeding 86°F (30°C).
Here's a simple rule:
- If it's been more than 28 days out of the fridge, even if the expiration date is in the future, do not use it.
- If it's been less than 28 days and kept at the right temperature (below 86°F (30°C), it's still safe to use.
Related article: What To Do If Wegovy Gets Warm & How to Manage Its Heat Intolerance.
Can You Use Expired Wegovy?
Technically, you might be tempted to use a Wegovy pen that's just a few days past its expiration date-but it's not recommended. The drug's stability and effectiveness can't be guaranteed beyond that date. You could risk:
- Reduced effectiveness in managing weight.
- Possible degradation of semaglutide, the active ingredient.
- Increased risk of side effects or complications.
Always check the label expiration date and never use medication that's expired. If you're unsure whether your pen is still good, consult your pharmacist or your doctor for advice.
What Happens If You Take Expired Wegovy?
The good news is that taking an expired dose of Wegovy (semaglutide) is unlikely to be dangerous-but it might not help you, either. The main risk is reduced efficacy. Over time, the drug's active ingredients can break down and lose strength, which means your weight loss efforts could be impacted.
Some people worry about side effects or toxicity, but while this is possible, it is not the main concern with expired Wegovy. Instead, it's about wasting a dose that may no longer be effective and negatively impacting your treatment.
Tips for Keeping Wegovy Fresh and Safe
Want to make sure your Wegovy lasts as long as possible? Here are some simple tips:
- ✅ Keep it in the original box in your fridge to protect it from light.
- ✅ Store it in the middle of the fridge, not in the door, where temperature fluctuates.
- ✅ Use a medication tracker or app to monitor when pens were removed from the fridge.
- ✅ Label pens with the date you took them out of the fridge.
- ✅ Always use a medication travel cooler when taking your Wegovy pen out on a sunny day where temperature can get higher than 86°F (30°C).
- ✅ Don't freeze Wegovy or expose it to temperatures above 86°F (30°C).
Related article: How to Travel Safely with Wegovy: TSA Tips, Cooling Cases, and Medication Storage for Flights and Long Trips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Wegovy expire if kept refrigerated?
Yes, Wegovy still expires even when stored in the refrigerator. The expiration date printed on the packaging reflects the maximum shelf life of the medication under proper refrigerated conditions. Keeping it in the fridge ensures the medication remains stable until that date, but it won't extend its life beyond the printed expiration. Always double-check the date before injecting.
2. How long can Wegovy stay at room temperature?
Wegovy can safely stay at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 28 days after being removed from the fridge. After this period, the medication may begin to degrade, reducing its effectiveness. Even if the expiration date hasn't passed, it should be discarded if kept at room temperature for more than 28 days. Always keep track of when you take it out.
3. Can I put Wegovy back in the fridge after taking it out?
Yes, you can place Wegovy back in the fridge after taking it out, but the 28-day countdown continues regardless. Returning it to cold storage doesn't reset its room-temperature shelf life. If you're unsure how long it's been out, it's better to err on the side of caution and not use it beyond 28 days.
4. Is it dangerous to use expired Wegovy?
Generally, using expired Wegovy is not considered dangerous, but it may not be effective. The active ingredients may have degraded, which can reduce the medication's ability to support weight management. If you've taken an expired dose, monitor how you feel and contact your healthcare provider for advice. It's always best to use fresh, in-date pens.
5. What should I do if I accidentally used expired Wegovy?
Don't panic. Using a recently expired Wegovy pen is unlikely to cause serious harm, but you should speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may recommend monitoring your blood sugar levels or scheduling your next dose sooner. Try to replace expired pens quickly to maintain consistency in your treatment plan.
Related article: Wegovy Injection Pain: Why Does it Hurt Sometimes and How to Make it More Comfortable?
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Wegovy has a printed expiration date you should always follow.
- ✅ Unopened pens stored in the fridge are good until that date.
- ✅ Once removed from the fridge, pens must be used within 28 days.
- ❌ Using expired Wegovy is not recommended due to reduced effectiveness.
- ✅ Proper storage ensures your medication stays safe and effective.
We'd Love to Hear From You
💬 Have you ever had questions about Wegovy expiration? Or maybe you accidentally used a pen past its date? Share your story, questions, or tips in the comments below to help others in the Wegovy community!
