Quick Answer: Before opening, store insulin pens and vials in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C. Once opened, most insulin can be stored at room temperature, ideally below 25°C, but must be used within a few weeks. Always check the specific storage instructions for your insulin. It may vary across insulin types and brands.

As you know, insulin is very sensitive to storage conditions, and especially temperatures. To keep your insulin working as it should, it's essential to store it at the right temperature.

For most insulin types and brands available in Australia, the ideal temperature falls between 2°C and 8°C before opening. However, once opened, insulin can often be kept at room temperature (ideally below 25°C or 30°C) for a limited time, depending on the brand and specific guidelines.

Proper storage and temperature control matter more than you may think. It's about effectiveness. It's about your blood sugar control and, ultimately your health.

Related article: Does Insulin Really Need to be Refrigerated and How Long is it Good out of the Fridge?

Why Temperature Matters…

Storing insulin at the correct temperature isn't just a suggestion - it's vital for your diabetes management.

Insulin is a protein, and exposing it to heat, cold, or temperature fluctuations can cause it to break down and lose its effectiveness.

For example, freezing insulin can render it unusable, while leaving it in direct sunlight or near a heat source can have the same effect. Using insulin that hasn't been stored at the right temperature could lead to poor blood sugar management, which can be dangerous, potentially causing prolonged hyperglycaemia o even diabetic ketoacidosis in the worst cases.

Taking a little extra care with storage temperature and light exposure ensures that your insulin will work exactly as it should when you need it. Insulin temperature management is a big part of insulin therapy.

Basically, most insulin types and brands available in Australia have the same general storage guidelines:

• Keep refrigerated before opening.
• Store at room temperature once opened, but only for a limited time - usually a few days or weeks, depending on the brand.

Related article: What Happens If Insulin Gets Too Warm? How to Protect Your Insulin from Heat Exposure?

Insulin Storage Temperature in the Fridge: 2°C and 8°C

When it comes to storing insulin in the refrigerator, the golden rule is to keep it between 2°C and 8°C. This applies to all types and brands of insulin sold Australia and, actually, anywhere in the world.

Where and how to store insulin in your domestic fridge

To ensure the quality and effectiveness of your insulin, it's crucial that your refrigerator temperature is set between 2°C and 8°C and that the temperature remains as stable as possible. Here are some tips and best practices to help maintain optimal storage conditions for your insulin in your fridge at home:

• Avoid overloading your fridge. Overpacking your fridge can block airflow and cause uneven cooling, which may affect the temperature stability. Keep it organised and avoid cramming too many items inside.
• Minimise the time the fridge door is open. Every time the door is opened, the internal temperature can rise, especially if left open for too long. Grab what you need quickly to maintain a stable environment for your insulin.
• Keep insulin away from the freezer compartment. The areas closest to the freezer may drop below 0°C, which can accidentally freeze your insulin and render it useless. Always store your medication well away from the freezer section.
• Store insulin in the middle of the fridge. The middle shelves are generally the most temperature-stable zones. Avoid storing insulin at the bottom, along the sides, or in the door shelves, as these areas are more prone to temperature fluctuations.
• Separate insulin from food. To prevent contamination and ensure cleanliness, store your insulin in a dedicated container or compartment. Avoid placing it near raw foods or strong-smelling items that could affect its condition.
• Use a thermometer to monitor the fridge temperature. Regularly check your fridge with a standalone thermometer to ensure it maintains the correct range. Fridge thermostats can sometimes be inaccurate, so this is a good way to double-check.
• Consider a fridge thermometer alarm. If possible, invest in a fridge thermometer with an alarm to alert you to any unexpected temperature changes, such as during power cuts or if the door is accidentally left ajar.
• Keep insulin in its original packaging. Insulin vials or pens are often sensitive to light as well as temperature. Storing them in their packaging adds an extra layer of protection.

How long does insulin last in the fridge?

When stored correctly in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C, insulin pens and vials are good until their expiry date, as indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging and label.

Always check the expiration date before using a new pen or vial from the fridge. Never use out-of-date insulin!

To ensure your insulin supply is well-managed, consider using the First In, First Out (FIFO) storage method. Place newer pens or vials at the back of the fridge and move older ones to the front. This way, you'll naturally use the oldest insulin first, reducing the risk of accidentally letting any expire.

Related article: Insulin Storage: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Your Insulin Pens and Vials.

Insulin Storage at Room Temperature: Below 25°C

Most types of insulin can be stored at room temperature once opened - but it's important to check the instructions for your specific brand.

Generally, opened insulin vials and pens can be stored at room temperatures up to 25°C to 30°C for a limited time, typically 28 days.

Here are some common insulin brands available in Australia and their room temperature storage guidelines:

• NovoRapid (insulin aspart): Can be kept up to 30°C for 28 days.
• Humalog (insulin lispro): Safe at room temperature up to 30°C for 28 days.
• Optisulin (insulin glargine): Can be stored up to 30°C for 28 days.
• Toujeo (insulin glargine): Can be kept at room temperature up to 30°C for 42 days.
• Tresiba (insulin degludec): Can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for 8 weeks once opened.
• Apidra (insulin glulisine): Safe at room temperature up to 25°C for 28 days.
• Fiasp (faster-acting insulin aspart): Can be stored at room temperature up to 30°C for 28 days after opening.

Important Notes for Room Temperature Storage:

Always read the leaflet provided with your insulin to check specific storage guidelines for your brand.

Avoid exposing insulin to extreme heat or direct sunlight. Even when brief, exposure to high temperatures can degrade the insulin and make it less effective.

If your insulin has been stored at room temperature for longer than the recommended period, or if it's been exposed to temperatures above 30°C, it should not be used.

If you're ever unsure about your insulin's storage, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for advice.

Insulin Storage During Travels

Planning a trip across Australia, visiting bustling Sydney, or heading overseas for a sunny getaway? Here are essential tips to keep your insulin safely stored while travelling or on the go.

• Use a portable insulin cooler: Insulin needs to stay cool, especially during long journeys. A portable cooler can help maintain the recommended temperature, especially if travelling with insulin that needs to stay refrigerated or if the outside temperature gets above 25-30°C.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Don't leave your insulin in a hot car or exposed to direct sunlight - it can quickly overheat.
• Plan for flights: Insulin should always go in your hand luggage, as the cargo hold can get too cold. Let airport security know you're carrying insulin and keep a doctor's note handy if needed.
• Check your destination's climate: If you're travelling somewhere particularly warm, make extra arrangements to keep your insulin at the right temperature.

Related article: 10 Tips for Travelling with Insulin!

We'd Love to Hear Your Thoughts!

Have you got any questions, tips, or experience about insulin storage & temperature control you'd like to share with us? Leave a comment below!