Storing Insulin

Once you open a bottle of insulin, you don't have to refrigerate it. If you buy extra bottles to have just in case, keep those in the refrigerator, but before using it, let it warm up. Cold insulin can sting a little. You can warm it up by holding it in your hands or letting it sit out at room temperature for awhile. Never warm it up in the microwave!

Always check the expiration date before you use it. Also, if anything is floating in it, that's not a good sign – throw it out!

Follow the storage and usage guidelines for each type of insulin you use. Insulin pens have different guidelines.

Extreme Temperataures
Insulin shouldn't ever get really hot or really cold. Letting it sit in the sun or in the car on a hot summer day is a bad idea. So is storing it in the freezer.

For trips to a hot beach, bring a cold pack for storing your insulin – just don't let it freeze. If you're traveling to a cold area, try to find a place to store your insulin where it can stay warm. If you're on the pump, being out in the heat or cold should be ok for your insulin. Definitely talk with your D-team before going on your trip and see what they say about storing insulin in hot and cold temperatures.