Semaglutide is used with a diet and exercise program to help people who have type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood) lose weight.
This medication is usually injected under the skin in your thigh, abdomen, or upper arm, once weekly. Your doctor will start you on a low dose first to decrease your risk of stomach/abdominal side effects, and gradually increase your dose.
What happens if it’s not refrigerated?
Semaglutide is an effective weight loss medication that comes in a reusable multi-dose pen. It should be refrigerated to avoid losing its effectiveness.
The best way to do this is to keep the lid on and place it in a cool, dry place (preferably not your car glove compartment). If you do choose to store it in the fridge, be sure to remove it from time to time to prevent the solution from becoming too cold.
If you’re a newbie to this type of treatment, it may be best to consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which storage options are right for you. They will be able to tell you what temperature your medicine should be stored at and which options are worth the extra space in your fridge. The most important thing to remember is that you should always follow the instructions your doctor or pharmacist has given you. That way, you’re guaranteed the most effective treatment possible.
What happens if it’s not used within 30 days?
If you don’t use the injection within 30 days, it should be refrigerated at a temperature between 36degF and 46degF (2degC to 8degC). Keep it in the original carton to protect from light.
You should also dispose of it properly after 56 days, even if you still have some solution in the pen. This is to avoid exposure to germs and other bacteria that can cause illness.
It is very important to follow these precautions, especially when sharing an Ozempic (semaglutide) pen with other people. This can be very dangerous because it is easy for blood-borne infections or disease to pass from person to person, and it can be harmful to the patient’s health.
What happens if it’s not disposed of properly?
A properly stored vial of semaglutide can last for months or even years, so it’s important to dispose of it correctly. *HINT A coffee can, leak-proof milk jug or similar container works a treat. For those who are more technically minded, a closable lid is also a good idea to ensure that your precious medication isn’t relegated to the bin in front of your kitchen sink.
Using the right tool for the job will save you time and effort. Be sure to read the instruction manual and ask your pharmacist about a suitable syringe. Be sure to also use it with the correct needle. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare syringe on hand for the inevitable refills and other emergencies. This will also help you save money by not buying an additional vial of medication at a time when you are low or running out.
What happens if it’s damaged?
Semaglutide is a drug that needs to be stored at certain temperatures before you use it. This is to keep it safe and effective.
You should store unused semaglutide pens (Ozempic) in the refrigerator at a temperature of 36degF to 46degF (2degC to 8degC). It can also be stored from 8degC to 30degC (46degF to 86degF) for up to 28 days.
If you store your unused semaglutide pen out of the fridge, it should not be placed near any cold or heating elements in your home. If it does, the pen may become spoiled or may not work correctly.
You should also make sure that the lid is on your pen when you store it. This is to protect the solution from heat and light. If the solution becomes cloudy, coloured or looks different from normal, it may be damaged and should be thrown away.