This article was reviewed by Craig Primack, MD, FACP, FAAP, FOMA.
Once opened, compounded semaglutide typically lasts 28 days in the fridge. Compounded semaglutide, which contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy, is available from many telehealth companies and compounding pharmacies. It not FDA-approved or subject to the same regulations.
But check the specific instructions on the compounded semaglutide you’re taking, as timings may vary. And speak to your prescribing healthcare provider or the pharmacy that dispensed your medication if you’re unsure.
Why does semaglutide need to be refrigerated? How long does it last once opened, and can you travel with it? We’ll answer all these common questions and more below.
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How Long Does Compounded Semaglutide Last in the Fridge?
Unopened compounded semaglutide lasts in the fridge until the expiration date shown on the vial.
But after it’s opened, compounded semaglutide only lasts in the fridge for 28 days. If you haven’t used up all the medication after 28 days, throw it away and start a new vial.
Be sure to check any guidelines on the compounded medication you’re taking and follow the medical advice given by your prescribing healthcare provider or pharmacy. Timings may vary depending on the formulation and preservatives used by the compounding pharmacy that made your medication.
For example, timings and storage conditions vary based on which type of semaglutide drug you’re taking.
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Does Compounded Semaglutide Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, compounded semaglutide needs to be refrigerated. If compounded semaglutide is not refrigerated, it may not be safe or effective.
Generally, you should store this injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist medication at 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Although, once again, check the compounded semaglutide you’re taking for specific instructions.
You wanna keep it cool, but be sure not to freeze your compounded semaglutide. Keep it away from the cooling element in your fridge to minimize this risk.
Compounded semaglutide left out of the fridge? Check with your healthcare provider or the pharmacy that dispensed your medication for exact instructions on what to do. You may have to toss it and open a new vial.
Check out our guide to how to inject semaglutide if you’re ready to go.
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How to Travel With Compounded Semaglutide
Compounded semaglutide injections need proper storage to be safe and effective, which can make travel a little tricky — but not impossible.
Here are our top tips:
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Use an insulated cooler bag with ice packs to transport your weight loss medication.
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When flying, keep compounded semaglutide in your carry-on bag so you can better control the temperature.
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Stay in hotels with a fridge in the room or accommodation with access to a private fridge.
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Pack extra medication in case a vial gets damaged in transit.
If your compounded semaglutide is exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures, or it’s frozen, you may have to throw it away. Consult a healthcare professional or your pharmacy to find out what to do.
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How Long Is Compounded Semaglutide Good For? Final Thoughts
You want to make sure compounded semaglutide is okay to use, but unlike a week-old carton of milk, you can’t exactly give it a sniff.
So, how long does compounded semaglutide last in the fridge? Here’s the TL;DR:
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Generally, compounded semaglutide is good for 28 days in the fridge once opened.
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If you haven’t opened your medication yet, you can keep it in the fridge until the compounded semaglutide expiration date.
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Ideally, this medication should be stored at 36 to 46 degrees and never frozen.
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These are guidelines for Hers compounded semaglutide. If you’re getting your weight loss treatment elsewhere, ask about specific storage instructions, recommended temperatures, and shelf life.
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And always ask your prescribing healthcare provider or pharmacy if you’re unsure.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.
This article originally appeared on ForHers.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
Image Credit: Carolina Rudah/Istockphoto.
