How Long Does Semaglutide Last in the Fridge?

How Long is Semaglutide Good for in the Fridge?

As an injectable medication, semaglutide’s safety and effectiveness depend heavily on correct storage. If it’s too warm, left out too long, or past its expiration date, you may be injecting a dose that doesn’t work as intended—or isn’t safe to use.

So, how long can semaglutide be out of the fridge for? How long does it last in the fridge? Ultimately, a little clarity now can prevent wasted medication and ensure you’re getting the dose you expect.

In the fridge, unopened semaglutide pens are considered usable until the expiration date printed on the packaging—typically several months out—as long as they’re stored between 36℉ and 46℉. Once you start using a pen, it remains stable in the refrigerator for up to 56 days (eight weeks).

Out of the fridge, an in-use pen can be kept at room temperature (under 86℉) for up to 56 days. After that window closes—or if the pen has been exposed to temperatures outside the safe range—it’s a good idea to discard it.

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How to Tell if Semaglutide Has Gone Bad

So how do you know if something’s off? Here’s what to look for.

It’s Cloudy or Discolored.

Semaglutide should be clear and colorless. If the liquid looks cloudy, yellowish, or murky in any way, don’t use it. Discoloration may mean that the medication has degraded and may no longer be effective—or safe.

Particles Are Floating Inside.

Hold the pen up to the light. If you see specks, particles, or anything floating in the solution, it indicates the medication has broken down. 

It’s Been Frozen.

Semaglutide should never be frozen. If your pen accidentally ended up in the back of a too-cold fridge or was left in a freezing car, toss it. Freezing damages the medication’s structure, and there’s no way to reverse it.

It’s Been Exposed to Heat or Direct Sunlight.

Left your pen in a hot car or on a sunny windowsill? Unfortunately, high temperatures and UV exposure can degrade the active ingredient quickly. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and replace it.

It’s Past the 56-Day Window.

Even if the pen looks fine, an open pen that’s been in use for more than 56 days should be discarded. Manufacturers do not guarantee the medication’s potency or safety beyond this window, even if there is still medication remaining in the pen. 

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How Long Does Compounded Semaglutide Last in the Fridge?

Because compounded medications are prepared by specialty pharmacies and not manufactured by large pharmaceutical companies, there’s no single universal guideline. Storage timelines depend on the medication’s formulation, route of administration (injectable vial, pen, or sublingual), and the specific compounding pharmacy’s protocols.

Overall, most compounded semaglutide formulations carry pharmacy-assigned BUDs (Beyond-Use Dates) that commonly range from 28 to 90 days, depending on the formulation and stability data available to that pharmacy.

Many compounded semaglutide formulations must remain refrigerated at all times and should not be kept at room temperature unless your prescription label indicates otherwise.

When in doubt, ask your provider. Since compounding pharmacies set their own beyond-use dates based on their formulations, your prescribing provider or pharmacist is the best source for exact storage guidance. If your medication didn’t come with clear instructions—or you’ve misplaced them—reach out to a licensed healthcare professional before assuming it’s still safe to use.

Keep in mind that compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved and has not undergone FDA review for safety or efficacy.

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Final Thoughts

When it comes down to it, proper storage ensures your medication is effective and safe. Refrigerate unopened pens, stick to the 56-day window once in use, and avoid heat, freezing, and direct sunlight. And always follow any directions on the label. If something looks off, don’t use it. 

For any other questions or concerns regarding your specific semaglutide medication, reach out to a licensed healthcare professional; they can help determine what’s appropriate for you and your specific situation.

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