Semaglutide is a prescription drug that has been used since 2017 to help control blood sugar levels of individuals who suffer from type 2 diabetes. It was then approved by the FDA in mid-2021 to be used to help with weight management, and it is available under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy.
If you are considering using semaglutide to help you lose weight, you may want to know, “Can you use expired semaglutide?” or “Does semaglutide expire?” Today, we will answer these questions and give you information about using expired semaglutide and the typical semaglutide shelf life (unopened), and how to store semaglutide.
Does Semaglutide Expire, And What Happens If You Use It?
There are a few concerns that you should be aware of if you use expired semaglutide, including:
It May Not Be Effective
Prescription drugs are labeled with expiration dates and show a “use by date” to make sure they remain fully effective and are still safe for use. These dates are marked on the medications because the active ingredients can break down with time and cause them to be less effective.
If the medication is not working to its full extent, you will not benefit from its significant appetite control or its effectiveness in curbing food cravings or keeping you feeling full for a longer amount of time. This can make it much harder for you to stick to a low-calorie diet and smaller portions, and it will not be as effective in controlling your blood sugar levels.
The Medication May No Longer Be Safe for Use
Sometimes, when medication gets stored for too long, chemical changes can occur, causing the medication to become unstable. This can cause adverse side effects, and in addition to the medication losing its effectiveness, it may end up affecting your physical health, so it is not worth taking any chances. It is important to pay attention to the expiration dates and appropriately discard the medication if it is out of date.
The Medication Could Become Contaminated
Semaglutide that is administered in prefilled pens is less likely to become contaminated; however, the administration directions that come with your Ozempic or Wegovy prescription clearly state to check the liquid to ensure it is colorless and not cloudy before using.
It is critical that prescription injections for weight loss like semaglutide be kept sterile, and using medication that is past its expiration date can increase the risk of contamination. Once the medication is opened, vials can become more susceptible to growing bacteria, and injecting semaglutide that has been contaminated can cause an infection and lead to other serious health conditions. Storing medication properly and using it before it expires can ensure it is both safe and effective.
Semaglutide’s Shelf Life (Unopened)
Semaglutide ideally should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F. It is safe to use right up to the expiration date as long as it has not been opened and has been stored properly. If the medication has been opened and is properly stored in the fridge, it is safe to use for six weeks. It can be safely stored unopened at room temperature for 28 days. The medication should not ever be frozen or exposed to temperatures over 86 degrees and should be discarded if this occurs.
If your medication is exposed to direct sunlight, it can accelerate the speed at which it breaks down and becomes unstable for use. Always check the medication before administering your injection, and if the liquid is cloudy or you see particles floating around inside, or the consistency is off, do not use it and contact the doctor.
Does Semaglutide Need To Be Refrigerated?
Semaglutide can be stored in or out of the refrigerator depending on how long you need it to stay viable for use. When stored in the refrigerator, Ozempic and Wegovy pens are safe to use up to the premarked expiration date. When stored outside of the refrigerator, as long as they have not been frozen or exposed to temperatures over 86°, they are good for about 28 days.
If your medication comes in vials, you may wonder, “What if my semaglutide vial was left out of the fridge?” If you are using semaglutide that comes in a vial, it should be okay to use for about 28 days if left out of the fridge, as long as it has not been frozen or gotten overheated. Make sure to read the recommended storage directions on your exact medication, and if you have any concerns or questions, contact Dr. Simmons or the support team.
How to Dispose of Expired Semaglutide
If your semaglutide is past its expiration date, do not use it, even if it looks like it is okay to you, because it is not worth the risk. You should discard it using the proper protocol for where you are. Check your state’s rules for throwing away medicine, or ask your pharmacist the best way to do it safely. Some drugs are on the FDA flush list and can be flushed down the toilet, but others require different handling. Disposing of medication the right way helps keep people safe and also protects the environment.
What if I Have Questions About Semaglutide Medication?
If you are interested in learning more about prescription weight loss injections, or you are a current patient of Dr. Simmons and have questions about your semaglutide medication, contact Simmons MD Advanced Weight Loss Solutions today. Dr. Simmons, or one of his knowledgeable weight loss professionals, can answer questions about the viability or safety of your semaglutide and discuss the risks of using semaglutide that is expired. They can give you guidance on how best to dispose of any expired semaglutide and can help you obtain a new prescription if you need one to ensure your weight loss journey is not interrupted and continues to be safe and effective.
Simmons MD Weight & Healthcare Solutions offers doctor-supervised weight loss programs using FDA-approved prescription medications, including semaglutide. They offer convenient virtual or in-person consultations so you can quickly and easily get the help you need to make your weight loss journey a success.
Set up your personal consultation today to find out if semaglutide weight loss injections are right for you and get started on the road to better health today.
