Insulin Storage & Safety

Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. It helps glucose get inside your body's cells so that the glucose can be used for energy.

Q What happens in people with type 2 diabetes?
right

In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas still makes insulin. But it doesn't make enough, or insulin doesn't work well, or both. In type 1 diabetes, pancreas no longer makes insulin, or makes only a small amount.

Wrong

In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas still makes insulin. But it doesn't make enough, or insulin doesn't work well, or both. In type 1 diabetes, pancreas no longer makes insulin, or makes only a small amount.

Insulin Storage

  • Insulin makers advise storing your insulin in the refrigerator before opening.

  • Insulin can be safely stored in the refrigerator until the expiration date on the vial.

  • Do not put insulin in the freezer or allow it to warm in the sun. Extreme temperatures and sunlight can damage insulin.

  • Insulin can be safely stored at room temperature for up to a month.

  • If one vial lasts longer than 30 days (for example if you use only 15 units a day, the vial will last for about 2 months), then store the vial in the refrigerator during the time that you are using it.

  • Do not use insulin if the vial has been stored outside of the refrigerator for more than 28 days.

Insulin Safety

  • Check the expiration date before opening your insulin. If the date has passed, don't use it.

  • If the expiration date is in future, look closely at the insulin in the bottle. Insulin aspart, insulin lispro, insulin glargine or regular insulin should be clear with no particles or color. If you are looking at NPH insulin, it should be cloudy but should not have particles or crystals.

  • If insulin does not look as it should, return the unopened bottle of insulin to the place you bought it for an exchange or refund.

This information is a summary from "Diabetes A to Z" and is provided with the permission of the American Diabetes Association.

It is a comprehensive book and recommended by the American Diabetes Association with the most up-to-date recommendations presented in a simple, yet informative format.

Click on the image to go to the American Diabetes Association bookstore.

Note:Care4life has no commercial interest in any of the books or resources it recommends.