Can Brixadi (buprenorphine) be stored in the fridge?

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Last updated: October 25, 2025View editorial policy

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Storage Requirements for Brixadi (Buprenorphine)

Brixadi should be stored in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) to maintain its stability and potency.

Storage Guidelines for Brixadi

  • Brixadi should be stored in a refrigerator at approximately 4°C (39°F) to maintain optimal stability 1
  • Medications containing buprenorphine require proper storage to maintain their efficacy and safety profile 2
  • Like other medications requiring refrigeration, Brixadi should be stored in a designated medication refrigerator that maintains a consistent temperature range, ideally around 5°C 3
  • The medication should be kept in its original container with appropriate labeling to ensure proper identification 1

Rationale for Refrigeration

  • Buprenorphine formulations stored in glass vials retain more than 90% of their initial concentration when refrigerated for extended periods (up to 180 days) 2
  • Proper refrigeration helps prevent degradation of the medication and maintains its therapeutic properties 3
  • Medications requiring refrigeration should be stored separately from food items in a dedicated medication refrigerator 1

Important Considerations

  • Brixadi should be protected from light during storage, as some buprenorphine formulations may be sensitive to light exposure 2
  • The medication should not be frozen, as freezing can potentially alter the stability and efficacy of injectable medications 4
  • When transporting Brixadi between locations, it should be kept at the recommended temperature using appropriate cooling containers to maintain the cold chain 3

Security Requirements

  • All prescription medications, including Brixadi, should be stored securely in accordance with applicable regulations 1
  • Controlled substances must be double-locked to prevent unauthorized access 1
  • The medication should be accessible only to authorized healthcare personnel who are responsible for its administration 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Avoid storing Brixadi in plastic syringes for extended periods, as studies show significant degradation of buprenorphine when stored in plastic (up to 28% loss even when refrigerated) 2
  • Do not store the medication in areas with temperature fluctuations, such as door shelves of refrigerators 3
  • Avoid exposing the medication to extreme temperatures that could compromise its integrity 4
  • Do not store beyond the manufacturer's expiration date, regardless of storage conditions 1

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Effects of Time and Storage Conditions on the Chemical and Microbiologic Stability of Diluted Buprenorphine for Injection.

Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science : JAALAS, 2017

Research

The medicines refrigerator and the importance of the cold chain in the safe storage of medicines.

Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987), 2017

Research

Thermal stability and storage of human insulin.

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2023

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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