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Found Insulin in a cupboard

MissMJ73

Well-Known Member
Messages
50
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
Agh I just found some insulin in my cupboard. I hadn’t realised it was in my sharps bin and had forgotten I had ordered as it was a large order. It’s been in there about 3-4 weeks I would think. Certainly no longer and maybe a bit shorter. Will it still be OK. I know once you start using it it’s left out anyway but should be kept refrigerated in between. I’ve ordered some more today anyway just in case. TYIA.
 
Did a quick Google and copied this from here
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/emergency...rage-and-switching-between-products-emergency

Insulin products contained in vials or cartridges supplied by the manufacturers (opened or unopened) may be left unrefrigerated at a temperature between 59°F and 86°F for up to 28 days and continue to work. However, an insulin product that has been altered for the purpose of dilution or by removal from the manufacturer’s original vial should be discarded within two weeks.

Note: Insulin loses some effectiveness when exposed to extreme temperatures. The longer the exposure to extreme temperatures, the less effective the insulin becomes. This can result in loss of blood glucose control over time. Under emergency conditions, you might still need to use insulin that has been stored above 86°F.
 
I really should be ignored due to my generally reckless behaviour, which on thinking about it, makes you wonder what the point of me posting is but then you could say that about all my posts lol

I would use it for sure, any guidelines will have a healthy buffer, so as long as you are testing and you don’t notice rising numbers from normal, go ahead and don’t waste it.
 

Thanks that’s good to know.
 
I've used insulin that's been out much longer and it's been OK... if you use it just keep an eye on your bg if you are going higher than expected then you insulin is losing its effectiveness and should be discarded
 
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