Storing insulin correctly, controlling temperatures, and keeping track of opening dates can feel like an overwhelming full-time job on top of everything else you manage daily.
You might think that insulin storage is just about keeping your pens and vials in the fridge or out of direct sunlight, but there's a bit more to it.
Unfortunately, hundreds of vials and pens of insulin go bad daily due to improper storage. That translates to thousands of dollars' worth of medicine wasted and significant health risks associated with using bad insulin.
In this article, I'll share 10 common mistakes people make when storing insulin, and trust me, avoiding these can make a world of difference!
How to Store Insulin: Reminder!
Before we dive into the mistakes, let's get some basics straight. Insulin storage isn't one-size-fits-all; it depends on the specific brand and type of insulin you're using. So, first things first: always check the manufacturer's instructions for detailed storage guidelines.
All types of insulin need to be refrigerated before use. When stored correctly in the fridge, insulin is good until the expiration date marked on each pen or vial.
Once opened or removed from the refrigerator, insulin can be stored at room temperature for a duration ranging from a few days to 6 weeks, depending on the specific brand. For instance, brands like Lantus, Novolog, Humalog or Fiasp can stay 28 days at room temperature, while Novolin N, Levemir, or Toujeo can last up to 42 days out of the fridge.
In all cases, during this time out of the fridge, all insulins must be protected from heat and should never be exposed to temperatures above 77 °F (25 °C) or 86°F (30 °C) for some.
Insulin Storage in the Refrigerator
So, when you get your new insulin pens and vials from the pharmacy, the first thing you want to do is store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them. While it seems straightforward, there are some common mistakes to watch out for when storing your insulin in the fridge!
Mistake #1: Storing Insulin in the Refrigerator Door
We all love the convenience of the refrigerator door, right? But hold on! Storing insulin there might seem tempting, but it's a no-no.
The door is the warmest part of the fridge due to frequent opening and closing, leading to fluctuating temperatures. The same goes for the bottom shelves and the sides of the refrigerator.
Instead, store your insulin in the main compartment where the temperature remains more stable.
Additionally, avoid overcrowding your fridge. Too many items can hinder proper air circulation, which is essential for maintaining reliable fridge temperatures for medication storage.
Related article: Can You Use Insulin That's Been Left Out for 1 Hour or Overnight?
Mistake #2: Not Checking Expiration Dates
Even when properly stored in the refrigerator, insulin expires. Each pen and vial comes with a clear expiration date labeled on it.
Using expired insulin can lead to ineffective diabetes management and cause persistent high blood sugars. Let's be honest-you don't want to put your health at risk over something so easily avoidable.
So, here's the simple lesson: make it a habit to check the expiration date every time you open a new vial or pen. It's a quick step that can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Use the "first in, first out" or FIFO storage method when managing your insulin supplies. This means you should always use the oldest vial or pen first before reaching for the newer ones. By doing this, you'll minimize the chances of having expired insulin lying around your refrigerator.
Mistake #3: Setting Fridge Temperatures Too Low
Now, let's talk about your refrigerator temperature settings.
Ideally, insulin must be stored in the fridge between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). But a common mistake is to have too low fridge temperatures.
If it's too cold, you risk freezing your insulin, which can damage it and render it ineffective. Consider using a thermometer to monitor the fridge temperature accurately. It's a small investment for peace of mind!
Additionally, avoid storing your insulin near the freezer compartment or in direct contact with ice.
Mistake #4: Not Keeping Insulin in Its Original Packaging
One often-overlooked mistake about insulin storage is not keeping your vials and pens in their original carton boxes. You might think that the packaging is no longer necessary once you are back home, but these boxes serve an essential purpose!
Insulin is sensitive to light and the carton boxes help protect the vials and pens from light exposure.
Additionally, if you store your insulin without the carton, you might inadvertently confuse different types of insulin or miss important labeling information.
Make it a habit to store your insulin vials and pens in their original cartons until you're ready to use them. Yes, it may take up a bit more space in the fridge, but this small sacrifice is well worth it, as it keeps your insulin protected and your supplies well organised.
Mistake #5: Not Using Refrigerated Insulin Storage for Travel
If you're traveling with unopened insulin pens or vials that need refrigerated travel storage, insulated lunch bags and ice packs just won't cut it.
I've tried that, and let me tell you, it's stressful! These DIY cooler bags aren't reliable enough for medical use. The ice melts, causing drips and mess inside, and the temperature fluctuates way too much. Plus, these home-made travel storage solutions are often not approved for air travel so you risk having them confiscated by the TSA at the airport.
When traveling with insulin that needs to be refrigerated, invest in a medical-grade travel refrigerator like the ones from 4AllFamily. They're specifically designed for medications and maintain consistent fridge temperatures between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C), ensuring that your insulin refrigerated and safe while you're on the go. Plus, they help you focus on enjoying your travels rather than worrying about your insulin storage!
Insulin Storage at Room Temperature
Now, let's shift gears and discuss common mistakes when you store insulin at room temperature.
Mistake #6: Storing Insulin Above 77°F
This one seems simple but can easily slip through the cracks. While insulin can generally be kept out of the fridge for up to a month, it should never be stored at temperatures above 77°F (25°C) -or 30°C (86°F) for some brands.
If you live in or are traveling to a warm climate, this is especially important. Always keep your insulin in a cool place, away from heat sources like stoves, chimney, or windows. Even brief exposure to high temperature can make your insulin go bad and be ineffective.
If the ambient temperature is above 25°C (77°F), keep your in-use insulin pens or vials in the refrigerator or in an insulin cooler.
Related article: What Happens If Insulin Gets Warm? Essential Safety Tips!
Mistake #7: Leaving Insulin in Direct Sunlight
Sunshine may be lovely for a day at the beach, but it's not for your insulin. Storing insulin in direct sunlight can degrade the medication quickly.
So, always store your insulin in a shaded area, whether you're at home or out and about. When traveling, find a shaded spot to place your cooler and avoid leaving your insulin out in the open for long periods.
Mistake #8: Not Keeping Track of Opening Dates
This is another common insulin storage mistake I've personally struggled with. While it's perfectly fine to store your insulin out of the fridge once opened, its shelf life at room temperature is limited to about a month! After that time, you should dispose of your pen or vial, even if there's still insulin inside.
So, here's a tip: as soon as you open it or first remove it from the refrigerator, immediately mark the opening date right on the insulin vial or pen with a permanent marker. Alternatively, you could keep a small notebook dedicated to tracking your insulin expiration dates. This way, you'll always know when it's time to replace your insulin, helping you avoid using expired insulin and putting your health at risk.
Mistake #9: Not Using an Insulin Cooler When Traveling or During Summer
When you're out and about, always keep your insulin cool, especially during hot weather. I learned this the hard way on a summer road trip when my insulin warmed up too much and became ineffective.
To avoid this mishap, always carry your insulin in insulated bags or coolers specifically designed for medications. They help maintain the right temperature and provide great peace of mind while you're on the move.
Personally, I never leave for a summer day out without my insulin cooler; it keeps my insulin safe and sound while I'm out exploring, allowing me to focus on enjoying my adventures without worrying about my medication storage.
Related article: How to Pack Insulin for Travel: Keep it Cool, Safe, and Legal!
Mistake #10: Not Educating Others About Insulin Storage
Finally, don't forget to educate your friends, family, or household members about proper insulin storage.
When they understand how critical it is for your health, they can help keep your medication safe and effective. I always remind my partner to check my insulin if I'm ever away-teamwork makes the dream work!
So, take the time to explain the key storage practices to those around you. Having a support team that knows how to handle your diabetes medication can provide you with peace of mind, knowing you're covered no matter what.
There you have it! By avoiding these common storage mistakes, you can ensure that your insulin remains cool, safe, and effective. Remember, your health is worth the extra effort!
If you want to learn more about our products for insulin storage while traveling, check out our range of coolers at 4AllFamily.com or get in touch with our team!
We'd Love to Hear From You!
Share your experiences, any mistakes you've learned from, or feel free to ask questions about insulin storage in the comments below.
