From the FDA Drug Label
Store your new, unused OZEMPIC pens in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Store your pen in use for 56 days at room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) or in a refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) The OZEMPIC pen you are using should be disposed of (thrown away) after 56 days, even if it still has OZEMPIC left in it. Do not freeze OZEMPIC. Do not use OZEMPIC if it has been frozen. Unused OZEMPIC pens may be used until the expiration date (“EXP”) printed on the label, if kept in the refrigerator When stored in the refrigerator, do not store OZEMPIC pens directly next to the cooling element. Keep OZEMPIC away from heat and out of the light. Keep the pen cap on when not in use.
The storage considerations for Ozempic (semaglutide) are:
- Refrigeration: Store new, unused pens in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- Room temperature: Store pens in use for 56 days at room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) or in a refrigerator.
- Freezing: Do not freeze Ozempic.
- Disposal: Dispose of the pen after 56 days, even if it still has Ozempic left in it.
- Protection from heat and light: Keep Ozempic away from heat and out of the light.
- Pen cap: Keep the pen cap on when not in use. 1
From the Research
Ozempic (semaglutide) should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until first use, as recommended by the manufacturer and supported by general guidelines for protein-based medications 2. The storage considerations for Ozempic are crucial to maintain its effectiveness and prevent degradation.
Key Storage Considerations
- Never freeze Ozempic and do not use it if it has been frozen.
- After first use, Ozempic pens can be stored either in the refrigerator or at room temperature not exceeding 86°F (30°C) for up to 56 days (8 weeks) 3.
- Always keep the pen cap on when not in use to protect from light.
- Refrigeration is important before first use because semaglutide is a protein-based medication that can degrade when exposed to higher temperatures for extended periods, reducing its effectiveness.
- The 56-day limit after first use applies regardless of storage method (refrigerated or room temperature) because the preservative system in the pen has limited effectiveness over time.
Travel and Handling
- When traveling, use a cooler with ice packs but prevent direct contact between the pen and ice to avoid freezing.
- Never store Ozempic with the needle attached as this can lead to contamination, medication leakage, and air bubbles in the cartridge. It is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure the quality and efficacy of Ozempic, as supported by studies on the pharmacokinetics and clinical implications of semaglutide 3.