Refrigeration of Adequan (Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan) and Its Efficacy
Refrigerating Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) does not negatively affect its efficacy, and proper storage may help maintain product stability.
Storage Recommendations for Injectable Medications
- Injectable medications like Adequan should be stored according to manufacturer guidelines to maintain efficacy and prevent degradation 1
- For most medications, unopened vials should be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C (36-46°F) without freezing or contamination by food 1
- Once opened, medications should be stored at ambient temperatures (15-30°C or 59-86°F) away from direct sunlight until the manufacturer's expiration date (often 28 days) 1
Specific Considerations for Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG)
- PSGAG has demonstrated stability under standard refrigeration conditions, which helps maintain its therapeutic properties 2, 3
- Refrigeration (not freezing) of PSGAG products helps preserve their molecular integrity and biological activity 4
- Proper temperature control is essential for maintaining the efficacy of glycosaminoglycan-based medications 5
Practical Storage Guidelines
- Check the temperature of the refrigerator where medications are stored since household refrigerators commonly operate outside the ideal range 1
- Use cooler packs/insulated bags if transporting Adequan outside in hot or cold/freezing conditions 1
- Before injection, check that the medication is not expired and appears visually normal 1
Efficacy Considerations
- Studies on PSGAG have shown beneficial disease-modifying effects in treating osteoarthritis in animals, with efficacy maintained when properly stored 2
- PSGAG has demonstrated ability to inhibit proteoglycan degradation and maintain chondrocyte viability when stored and administered properly 5
- The therapeutic effects of PSGAG include reducing inflammation and protecting cartilage, which are preserved with proper storage 3
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Avoid freezing Adequan as this can alter its molecular structure and potentially reduce efficacy 1
- Do not store in frost-free freezers where temperature might cycle above recommended storage temperatures 1
- Avoid exposing the medication to direct heat, light, or excessive agitation 1
- Do not use if there are visible changes in appearance (clumping, frosting, precipitation, or change in clarity or color) 1
Maintaining proper storage conditions for Adequan is important for preserving its therapeutic properties. While specific studies on refrigeration of Adequan are limited, general principles of medication storage indicate that refrigeration is appropriate for maintaining stability of injectable medications like PSGAG when following manufacturer guidelines.