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Gestational diabetes: Storing insulin

  • You can keep bottles of insulin at room temperature if you use them up in 30 days.
  • Keep extra insulin in the refrigerator. Remember to let refrigerated insulin warm up for about 15 minutes before using it. Throw away all open bottles of insulin after 30 days.
  • If you use insulin pens, be aware that room temperature storage guidelines can vary from 7 to 30 days, depending on the insulin type. Check with your diabetes educator or pharmacist.
  • Look at the expiration date on each insulin bottle/ pen before you use it. Throw out insulin if the expiration date has passed.
  • Avoid exposing insulin to direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.
  • Do not use insulin that is lumpy, sticks to the edges of the bottle/pen or looks discolored.

Traveling with insulin

  • When you travel, keep your insulin with you. Do not leave it in a car or other vehicle.
  • It is a good idea to travel with extra supplies (insulin, syringes and test strips).
  • Regulations for airline travel may apply. Check with the airline before you fly.
  • Keep all medications in their original containers with the pharmacy labels on.
  • Talk with your diabetes educator for more travel suggestions.


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Source: Allina Patient Education, Gestational Diabetes: When You Have Diabetes During Pregnancy, second edition, ISBN 1-931876-21-6

First published: 11/27/2006
Last updated: 11/27/2006

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts

 


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