Why Insulin Injection Should Be Stored in the Refrigerator?

Contents:

Medical Video: A Guide to Using Your Insulin Pen

Not everyone can fulfill their body's insulin needs. In many cases, injecting insulin can be the best solution. Same with other types of drugs, injectable insulin must also be stored properly and correctly. Experts often recommend storing injectable insulin in a refrigerator or refrigerator. Why does it have to be in the fridge? See the explanation in this article.

Overview of injectable insulin

Insulin is a natural hormone in the body that is made in the pancreas. This hormone functions to convert blood sugar (glucose) into energy and helps regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Not everyone can produce enough insulin. Those who do not have enough insulin levels in their bodies or insulin cannot work effectively generally need treatment with artificial insulin to control their blood sugar levels. Artificial insulin is a synthesis of hormones whose composition is similar to natural insulin in the body.

Artificial insulin cannot be drunk or eaten because the stomach enzyme will be damaged during the digestive process. Therefore, insulin must be injected into the tissue under the skin to get into the blood.

Why should injected insulin be stored in the refrigerator?

People with type 1 diabetes may be familiar with the recommended insulin storage that should be placed in the refrigerator. This is not without purpose. Injection insulin storage in the refrigerator aims to help prevent damage to the composition of substances contained in injectable insulin. Because, to prevent this damage insulin must remain in a cold temperature.

Conversely, if you store insulin in an inappropriate place, it can affect the potential of substances in it so that it can ultimately affect the results of treatment of your blood sugar. Even though you have given an injection in the right dosage and at the right time, if you do not store insulin properly, the effect will still not be felt. That is why, it is important for you to always read the storage instructions for each drug you are taking.

How to store injectable insulin correctly

In general, the following is a guide to how to store insulin properly:

  • Although most manufacturers recommend storing insulin in the refrigerator, unfortunately injecting cold insulin sometimes more painful. Now, to get around this, many experts suggest storing the bottle of insulin that you use at room temperature. However, insulin stored at room temperature can only last around 28 days.
  • Although it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator, you are not advised to store insulin that has not been used at all inside freezer or too close to the compartment freezer. Because this will actually make insulin freeze. Freezing insulin can no longer be used even though it is later thawed.
  • If you buy more than one bottle at a time, keep the unused bottles in the refrigerator. Then when you want to use it, leave the bottle first at room temperature for a few seconds.
  • Store insulin in the refrigerator with temperatures between 2-8 degrees Celsius. As long as the bottle has not been opened, the insulin can last until the expiration date ends.
  • Always check the expiration date before using insulin, and never use any type of insulin beyond the expiration date.
  • Do not put insulin near the radiator, in direct sunlight, or on electrical equipment such as a TV or computer. Also, don't put it in the car when the car is off or near the stove.
  • Insulin can be injected in any fatty body part, which is usually chosen upper arm, stomach, or buttocks.
  • Some types of insulin have different storage requirements. That is why, make sure you always read the usage and storage instructions listed on the packaging.
Why Insulin Injection Should Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Rated 5/5 based on 2181 reviews
💖 show ads