How Long Does Progesterone Oil Last After Opening? Safe Use and Storage

Understanding Progesterone In Oil

Progesterone in oil (PIO) injections contain the hormone progesterone suspended in an oil base. It is given intramuscularly to help support pregnancy in fertility treatments or hormone therapy regimens. The oil allows slow release of progesterone into the bloodstream over time.

Uses of Progesterone In Oil

Some reasons PIO may be prescribed include:

• Luteal phase support after embryo transfer in IVF
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Treatment for infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss
• Helping trigger ovulation

The goal is to supplement progesterone levels to help achieve and sustain a healthy pregnancy by regulating the uterine lining.

Administering PIO Injections

Progesterone oil injections are thick and administered intramuscularly using a 18-22 gauge needle. Common injection sites include the upper outer quadrants of the buttocks or thighs. Potential side effects include soreness, bruising, knots under skin or infection.

How Long Does Progesterone Oil Last After Opening?

So how long is PIO still effective once opened? Progesterone oil lasts approximately 30 days after the initial use provided it has been stored properly.

Sterility is Critical

Because PIO injections bypass the skin and deliver medication directly into underlying tissue, maintaining sterility of the vial is imperative.

An open progesterone in oil vial lasts about 30 days at room temperature only if sterile conditions are upheld each time it is accessed. This prevents inadvertent contamination of the remaining medication.

Storage and Expiration

An unopened vial stored correctly can be used until its manufacturer printed expiration date. Once opened, PIO must be discarded 30 days after initial use, even if the expiration date exceeds 30 days.

Storing progesterone oil improperly, for example at excessively high or low temperatures, can quickly render it ineffective or compromise sterility well before its expiration or 30 day opened date.

Maintaining Sterile Technique

Strict sterile procedures must be used when accessing open progesterone oil vials to prevent inadvertent contamination:

• Wash hands thoroughly before handling
• Swab vial stopper with alcohol before each use
• Use a sterile syringe and needle every injection
• Do not touch needle tip or inside of cap
• Discard any leftover contents immediately after dose is drawn

Signs of Contamination

If non-sterile technique is used, the progesterone oil can become contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms. Signs may include:

• Cloudiness
• Change in color
• Particulate matter floating inside vial

If contamination is suspected, discard the vial immediately. Using contaminated PIO puts you at risk for infection or abscess at the injection site and likely will not provide effective progesterone absorption.

Safe Use and Disposal Tips

Exposure Precautions

To prevent accidental exposure during use:

• Employ proper hand hygiene when handling vials and needles
• Do not recap, bend or otherwise manipulate needles
• Engage sharps container to safely contain needles before disposal
• Use safety engineered syringes designed to prevent needlestick injuries if able

Proper Discard and Disposal

Open progesterone oil must be discarded after 30 days since initial accessing, or if:

• Suspected contamination based on appearance
• Visible floating particulate matter
• Stored incorrectly such as temperature extremes
• Reaching manufacturer printed expiration date

Dispose of used progesterone vials and needles in appropriate sharps containers. Do not throw in regular trash. Check guidelines for safe medical hazardous waste handling and disposal methods in your municipality.

Talk To Your Healthcare Provider

Always refer to the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist regarding specifics on storing, handling, and injecting your prescribed progesterone in oil medication. Ask questions if you have concerns about proper administration, duration of use once opened, or disposal protocols.

Adhering to sterile procedures, proper storage and discarding outdated PIO is crucial to safely realize the benefits while minimizing infection risks that can come from contaminated progesterone injections.

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.