If you’ve been prescribed compounded semaglutide, you might be wondering about its how to store it properly. Whether you have been prescribed commercially produced semaglutide, proper storage is essential for maintaining the drug’s effectiveness and ensuring its safety. The following guide provides information on whether or not compounded semaglutide needs to be refrigerated and other storage tips.
Compounded Semaglutide Must Be Refrigerated
Compounded semaglutide should be refrigerated if dispensed as a liquid solution for injection. This is because liquids are more prone to degradation and bacterial growth at room temperature.
Unused and unopened semaglutide vials should be stored at temperatures from 36-46°F (2-8°C). This means once you receive your semaglutide, you should promptly place it in the refrigerator until use. Doing so ensures that you maintain control over the storage temperature and that your medication doesn’t get exposed to extreme temperatures or sunlight.
Shipping Compounded Semaglutide Vials
Previously, once your compounded semaglutide order was labeled by the pharmacy team, the vials would be placed in temperature-controlled packaging to ensure that they remained within the recommended temperature range during transit. Like most pharmacies, this is how we used to ship our orders here at MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy).
However, shipping compounded semaglutide no longer requires a temperature-controlled shipping service.
MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy) is committed to providing reliable compounded medications, including semaglutide. Our third-party testing has indicated that semaglutide can maintain its stability at elevated temperatures for limited durations. Specifically, testing suggests that semaglutide injections can remain viable after exposure to temperatures up to 104°F (40°C) for up to three days.
While our shipping practices adhere to industry standards, if your vials arrive warm, please ensure they are promptly placed in refrigerated conditions of 36-46°F (2-8°C) upon receipt to maintain their integrity and effectiveness.
We prioritize the safety and well-being of our patients, and we encourage consultation with a qualified healthcare professional for any questions regarding your compounded medications.
Storing Semaglutide At Home
Storing your compounded semaglutide properly is essential for maintaining its effectiveness and safety. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
- Storage Temperature: It is recommended to keep unopened semaglutide in the refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, as this may impact its effectiveness.
- After Opening: Once opened, continue refrigerating your semaglutide and aim to use it within 30 days.
- Safety Precautions: Store your semaglutide out of reach of children and pets.
- Visual Checks: Before using your semaglutide, inspect it for any unusual changes in appearance, such as discoloration or cloudiness. If you notice anything other than clear liquid, consult your healthcare provider before use.
- Disposal: For any unused or expired semaglutide, please consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for proper disposal methods. Do not dispose of it in the trash or flush it down the toilet.
How To Travel With Semaglutide
If you plan to travel and need to take your compounded semaglutide with you, here are some tips to ensure safe storage:
- Keep your unopened vials in a cooler bag or insulated container while traveling. For example, a small, insulated lunch bag with an ice pack or a thermos filled with cold water can help keep your medicine cool.
- If you’re flying, it’s best to pack your medication in your carry-on luggage to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures in the cargo hold.
- If you are unsure about storage during your trip, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.
Pack Extra Medication
Be sure to take more than enough medication when traveling in case of any unexpected delays or changes in your itinerary. Aim to bring at least a few extra days’ worth of medication, just in case. Doing so will ensure you’ll have the medication you need if your travel plans change unexpectedly.
Also, if one of your vials gets damaged or lost, you’ll have extras to use during your trip. Be sure to keep your medication in its original container with the prescription label attached for easy identification.
Store Your Semaglutide Properly
It’s always important to store your semaglutide properly, especially when traveling. This means keeping it in a cool place and away from direct heat sources. Bring along an insulated bag or even a small cooler with an ice pack to keep it at the recommended temperature range. However, even while traveling, you should place your semaglutide in a refrigerator the moment you have access to one.
Carry Your Doctor’s Note With You
To be safe, you should request a letter from your healthcare provider if you plan to travel with semaglutide. This note should explain the nature of your medication and why you need it. It can also serve as proof that it is prescribed by a licensed medical professional and not an illegal substance.
This could come in handy if airport security or customs officials ask for an explanation or documentation during your travels.
Is Compounded Semaglutide’s Potency Affected By Its Temperature?
Yes and no. A lot depends on the ingredients. The thing about compounded medications is that their potency and shelf life can vary depending on the compounding process and ingredients used.
According to recent third-party testing, compounded semaglutide has been shown to remain stable at higher temperatures than originally thought. This means that even if your medication arrives warm, it should not compromise its quality.
However, for optimal results and safety, we still recommend storing your semaglutide at the recommended temperature range of 36-46°F (2-8°C), which means that you should store it in a refrigerator when possible.
How To Get Compounded Semaglutide
If you and your healthcare provider have determined that compounded semaglutide is suitable for your needs, obtaining a prescription is straightforward.
MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy) specializes in compounding medications, including semaglutide, which means we can provide you with a customized version of this medication that meets your specific requirements. We are proud to be PCAB accredited and certified, demonstrating our commitment to rigorous standards in our compounding process.
To get started, request a prescription from your healthcare provider and have them specify MediVera Compounding Pharmacy™ (formerly known as University Compounding Pharmacy) as the preferred pharmacy. Or, you can call our hotline to get support with transferring your prescription. From there, our team will work closely with you and your provider to create a compounded semaglutide that meets your prescriber’s personalized recommendation for your individual needs.
We also offer convenient shipping options to ensure you have access to this medication, no matter your location.
Need to request a prescription for compounded semaglutide? Learn how we can help you on this page.