Storing your cholesterol injections correctly is crucial for ensuring they work as they should. Whether you're using Praluent (alirocumab), Repatha (evolocumab), or Leqvio (inclisiran), knowing the right way to store them helps maintain their effectiveness, especially when you're living in Australia, where the summers can be really hot.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the best ways to store these medications—at home or while travelling—how long they can be kept out of the fridge, and what to do if they've been left at room temperature too long.
What is the storage form of cholesterol?
Medications like Praluent, Repatha and Leqvio are highly sensitive to temperature changes. If they're not stored properly, they may lose their effectiveness—meaning they won't help manage your cholesterol as they should, potentially increasing the risk of heart-related conditions.
Keeping them under the right conditions ensures they remain potent and continue lowering LDL cholesterol levels effectively.
How Temperature Affects Cholesterol Injections
These injections contain delicate proteins that can break down if exposed to extreme temperatures. Storing them correctly helps prevent this from happening. Some common mistakes people make include:
- Keeping them in a fridge that is too cold, risking freezing the medication.
- Leaving them out at room temperature for too long without realising.
- Storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, which can damage their composition.
- Refrigerating them again after they’ve been left out, which can cause instability.
- Travelling with them without proper temperature control.
- Forgetting to check expiry dates before use.
To avoid these issues, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure. Below, we break down the storage recommendations for Praluent, Repatha, and Leqvio—the most commonly prescribed cholesterol injections in Australia.
Related article: How to Safely Transport Refrigerated Medication
Storing Praluent
Praluent (alirocumab) is a PCSK9 inhibitor designed to help lower LDL cholesterol levels in people who don’t get enough benefit from statins alone. It’s administered via a pre-filled pen or syringe just under the skin.
It’s typically prescribed to those at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
The injection is usually given every two weeks, but some patients may have a monthly dose instead.
Before injecting, always check the solution. If it’s cloudy or contains particles, don’t use it.
Repatha is currently listed on the PBS, so if your doctor has prescribed it, it’s worth looking into this government program to significantly reduce your costs.
Does Praluent Need Refrigeration?
Yes, Praluent should be stored in a fridge at 2°C to 8°C. Keeping it within this range ensures it stays effective. Also, always check the expiry date before use.
How Long Can Praluent Be Kept at Room Temperature?
If necessary, Praluent can be stored at room temperature (below 25°C) for up to 30 days. Once it’s been out of the fridge for that long, it should be discarded.
Never put Praluent back in the fridge after it has been stored at room temperature, as this can affect its stability. If unsure whether it's safe, ask your pharmacist.
Related article: What’s the Best Fridge Temperature for Refrigerated Medications?
Storing Repatha
Repatha (evolocumab) is another PCSK9 inhibitor that helps lower cholesterol levels, especially for people who can’t reach their targets with statins alone.
It is given via a pre-filled autoinjector or syringe and is prescribed for those at increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Typically, it’s administered every two weeks or monthly, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
Repatha is currently listed on the PBS, so if your doctor has prescribed it, it’s worth looking into this government program to significantly reduce your costs.
Does Repatha Need Refrigeration?
Yes, Repatha should be kept in a fridge at 2°C to 8°C. When stored correctly, it has a shelf life of about two years. Always check the expiry date before use.
How Long Can Repatha Be Left Out?
Repatha can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C) for 30 days. If left out for longer, it should be discarded.
Never put it back in the fridge after it’s been left out. If you’re travelling, plan ahead to ensure proper storage.
Storing Leqvio
Leqvio (inclisiran) works differently from Praluent and Repatha. It’s a small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy that reduces PCSK9 protein production in the liver.
As of now, Leqvio is currently not listed on the PBS, that means it must be paid for privately.
Leqvio is unique because it’s only administered twice a year after the initial doses.
Unlike Praluent and Repatha, Leqvio is given by a healthcare professional, so you don’t need to store it at home.
Does Leqvio Need Refrigeration?
No, Leqvio can be stored at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C, with short periods allowed at up to 30°C.
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
The PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) is an Australian government program that subsidises the cost of essential medicines to make them more affordable for patients. It helps Australians access prescription medications at a lower price, reducing the financial burden of long-term treatments.
How does the PBS work?
If you're depending on a medication that is on the PBS, you will only pay a set co-payment rather than the full price.
The standard Co-payment as of 2024 is:
- $31,60 AUD: for general patiens
- $7,70 AUD: for concession or card holders
Every Australian Resident with a Medicare card is eligible for the program!
Travelling with Cholesterol Injections
Are you planning to travel with Praluent or Repatha? Here are some tips for you, depending if you travel on the road or by plane:
Travelling by Plane with Cholesterol Injections
🧊 Use a Medical Travel Cooler: For long-haul flights, use a temperature-controlled medical cooler to maintain the correct storage conditions for your cholesterol injections.
🌡️ Monitor Temperature Ranges: Some cooling cases have built in thermometers, but if not you can always place a small digital thermometer inside your cooler bag to keep track of temperature fluctuations during your journey.
🚫 Avoid Extreme Conditions: Never leave your injections in a hot car, direct sunlight, or in freezing conditions, as this can compromise their effectiveness.
🛄 Carry Medication in Hand Luggage: Always keep your cholesterol injections in your carry-on bag. Checked baggage is exposed to extreme temperature changes and can be a risk to the medication's safety.
📜 Have a Doctor's Note: It’s helpful to carry a letter from your healthcare provider that explains your need for the medication, especially if you're flying internationally.
✈️ Check Airline Regulations: Some airlines may have specific requirements for transporting liquid medications. Be sure to check their policies in advance.
🧳 Use an Insulated Travel Case: A well-insulated travel case can help protect your injections from temperature fluctuations during the flight. Ensure that your cooler case is air travel-approved.
Related article: All You Need to Know for Flying with Needles, Syringes, and Medical Injections from Australia and Abroad!
Travelling by Road with Cholesterol Injections
🚗 Keep Your Medication in a Cooler Bag: If you’re driving, store your injections in an insulated cooler bag to maintain the correct temperature.
❄️ Use Ice Packs with Caution: While ice packs can help keep your medication cool, make sure they don’t come into direct contact with the injections to avoid freezing them.
🏨 Plan Storage at Your Destination: When staying at a hotel, request a refrigerator to store your injections. However, avoid hotel minibars as they may be too cold and not ideal for medication storage.
Related article: Tips for Travelling with Refrigerated Medication: Packing, Cold Storage, Air Travel Compliance, and More!
What to Do If Your Medication is Exposed to Incorrect Temperatures
📖 Check the Manufacturer Guidelines: Review the guidelines provided with your medication to understand the acceptable temperature ranges.
👨⚕️ Consult Your Pharmacist or Doctor: If you’re unsure whether your medication is still safe to use after exposure to incorrect temperatures, consult your healthcare provider.
🚮 Do Not Attempt to Re-Refrigerate Medication: If your cholesterol injection has been exposed to temperatures beyond the recommended range, discard it and consult your healthcare professional.
Final Thoughts
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of your cholesterol injections. Whether you're using Repatha, Praluent, or Leqvio, always adhere to the recommended storage instructions and keep an eye on expiry dates.
When it comes to travelling, planning ahead is crucial. Invest in a reliable, medical-grade travel cooler to ensure your medication stays within the required temperature range. If you ever have concerns or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for advice. By looking after your medication, you’re looking after your health!
We'd Love to Hear from You!
💬 Have you had any experience with storing or travelling with cholesterol injections? Do you have any tips or questions? Feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Your experiences can help others who are managing similar challenges.
