I Left My Ozempic Out Overnight - Is it Still Safe to Inject?

I Left My Ozempic Out Overnight - Now What Should I Do?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable medication used for treating type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. It requires proper storage to maintain its effectiveness and safety. But mistakes happen, and you may find yourself realizing you left your Ozempic out overnight or for some period of time unrefrigerated. What should you do if this happens with your Ozempic? Let's go over the stability, risks, and recommendations if Ozempic is left out.

How Stable is Ozempic When Left Out?

Ozempic should be stored in the refrigerator between 36F to 46F (2C to 8C) before first use. After initial use, Ozempic can be left out unrefrigerated for up to 4 weeks when stored below 86F (30C).

Specifically, Ozempic left at room temperature up to 86F for:

• Up to 4 weeks - can be used
• 4 weeks to 6 weeks - talk to pharmacist or doctor
• Over 6 weeks - discard and do not use

So a single night, day, or up to a few days left out on the counter will likely not make Ozempic unsafe or less effective. But exceeding 4 weeks may start to degrade the drug. Heat over 86F degrades it faster.

Should You Still Take Ozempic After Leaving it Out?

If you left your Ozempic pen or syringe out of the fridge for just one night, it should still be fine to take your normal dose. But consider these factors to determine if you should use Ozempic left out:

• How long was it left out? Overnight is ok, a few days maximum.
• What temperatures was it exposed to? Above 86F risks faster breakdown.
• Has it been initially used? Once opened, it's good for up to 4 weeks.
• Any change in color or particles? Signs of contamination or degradation.

When in doubt, contact your pharmacist or doctor for their recommendation. But generally short periods of time out of refrigeration will not make Ozempic unsafe or ineffective.

What Are the Risks of Using Ozempic Left Out?

Using Ozempic not properly stored does come with some potential risks or issues to be aware of:

• May not control blood sugar or weight as well
• Could potentially increase side effects
• Higher risk of bacterial contamination
• More painful or difficult injections
• Will expire and degrade faster once opened

But the manufacturer states Ozempic can tolerate short periods out of refrigeration. One night should not cause serious risks, but monitor for increased side effects or poorer response.

Tips to Prevent Leaving Ozempic Out Again

Accidents happen, but you can take steps to avoid leaving your Ozempic out unrefrigerated again:

• Store Ozempic pens in the refrigerator immediately after picking up from pharmacy.
• Set a daily reminder to take your Ozempic dose and store pen properly after.
• Designate one spot in the fridge to always store your Ozempic.
• Put a visual reminder note on the fridge so it's seen before bed.
• Use a insulated storage bag when traveling or commuting.
• Don't remove the pen until right before you inject your dose.

Establishing consistent habits in how you store your Ozempic can prevent accidentally leaving it out.

How Does Ozempic Work in the Body?

To better understand Ozempic's stability when left unrefrigerated, it helps to know how this medication works after you inject it:

1. Absorption

After injecting under your skin, Ozempic is absorbed into your bloodstream over several days. Maximum concentration is reached in 1-3 days.

2. Action

Ozempic activates receptors in the brain, stomach, liver, and pancreas. This increases insulin production, suppresses appetite, and slows digestion.

3. Breakdown

The body breaks down Ozempic over time through metabolism and excretion. Half of the concentration dissipates every 5-7 days.

4. Elimination

Any inactive remnants of Ozempic get eliminated through urine and feces. It takes up to 2 weeks to fully clear the body.

Since absorption is slow and gradual, short lapses in refrigeration are unlikely to prevent Ozempic from working properly once injected. But consistent refrigeration optimizes the drugs stability and shelf life.

Proper Storage and Expiration of Ozempic

To get the most out of your Ozempic and use it safely, follow the manufacturers storage guidelines:

Unopened Ozempic Pens or Syringes

• Store in a refrigerator between 36F to 46F until first use.
• Can be kept until the expiration date printed on the pen or pack. Never use expired Ozempic.
• Avoid freezing Ozempic. Do not store in temperatures below 36F.
• Discard if ever frozen - do not refreeze Ozempic.

Opened Ozempic Pens or Syringes

• Can be kept unrefrigerated up to 4 weeks when below 86F.
• Write date first used on the pen label to track unrefrigerated time.
• Never put Ozempic back in the fridge after leaving out 4 weeks.
• Safely dispose of Ozempic after 4 weeks unrefrigerated.

Remember, refrigeration is still best whenever possible for optimizing Ozempic's effectiveness and reducing degradation.

What If Ozempic Freezes?

You should never use Ozempic if it has been accidentally frozen. Temperatures below 36F can damage the medication. If Ozempic freezes:

• The liquid may become cloudy or discolored.
• Crystallization or clumping can occur.
• Injecting could cause pain, irritation, welts.
• May not control blood sugar or weight as expected.

Contact your pharmacist for proper disposal instructions if your Ozempic ever accidentally froze. They can provide a replacement with insurance approval. Avoid injecting frozen Ozempic.

Talk to Your Doctor If Ozempic is Not Working

If you notice your Ozempic does not seem as effective after leaving it out or improper storage, consult your prescribing doctor. Signs it may not be working optimally include:

• Blood sugar increases and harder to control
• Increase in appetite and hunger
• More cravings and trouble resisting food
• No longer losing weight on same dose
• Gastrointestinal side effects decrease

Your doctor can advise if your dose needs adjusting or if switching medications may be beneficial. Be sure to monitor your blood sugar closely if Ozempic is not working as expected.

The Bottom Line

Leaving Ozempic out overnight or for a few days should not make the medication ineffective or dangerous. But exceeding 4 weeks unrefrigerated, freezing, or exposing it to high temperatures can degrade the drug. Refrigerate Ozempic pens immediately before and after each use. And speak to a pharmacist or doctor if Ozempic does not seem to be working as well after improper storage.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.