Proper insulin storage is essential to retain its potency and efficacy. Improper storage may compromise its activity and can be life threatening .To maintain its potency, insulin should be stored within temperatures of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius.
What happens if insulin temperature is not maintained?
Denaturation: High temperatures can cause the protein structure of insulin to unfold and lose its functional shape, rendering it ineffective. Similarly, exposure to sunlight, especially UV radiation, can lead to denaturation.
Freezing: Insulin can also lose effectiveness if it undergoes freezing. When frozen, the protein structure can be altered, leading to its degradation. Even if thawed, the insulin does not retain its potency or activity.
Basal doses tend to return to their original clear solution when thawed, but they should not be used.
Bolus doses become hazy when thawed and should be discarded.
Optimizing Insulin Storage in Domestic Refrigerators with "Real-Time Temperature Monitoring"
The household refrigerator is not always suitable for storing insulin. The temperature inside the fridge is always not consistent in all areas.
- Storing insulin in the side doors of the fridge may cause temperature fluctuations during opening, potentially harming the insulin.
- Additionally, the upper freezer compartment may expose the insulin to freezing temperatures.
- The temperature in the crisper under the freezer chamber occasionally drops below 2 degrees Celsius.
- while the last chamber for storing fruits and vegetables may reach high temperatures.
- Therefore, the most adequate temperature for insulin storage is typically found in the middle tray, where we usually keep milk.
- Do not store insulin in mini fridges as it may reach much low temperature causing insulin to fridge.
Various "cost-effective devices" are available on Amazon to monitor the temperature of the fridge compartment where insulin is stored.
- LCD Electronic Fish Tank Water Detector Thermometer: This device is suitable for placement inside the fridge to record its temperature accurately. With its LCD display, it provides precise readings, ensuring that the fridge maintains consistent temperatures for optimal storage of items such as insulin.
HTC Instrument-103-CTH Digital Indoor Hygrometer Thermometer: Powered by electricity, this digital hygrometer thermometer is ideal for measuring temperatures when placed outside the fridge. Its reliability and accuracy make it a dependable tool for monitoring ambient temperatures, helping users maintain consistent conditions for storing sensitive items.
Ensuring the "Cold Chain": Transporting Insulin from Retail to Home and During Travel
There is a pressing need to maintain the cold chain when transporting insulin from a retail shop to one’s home or when traveling with it.
- Avoid storing insulin in car dashboards or near windows as they can expose it to extreme temperatures to avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Ice packs may not provide substantial temperature control and can prove ineffective even when secured to both sides of insulin.
- Their inability to maintain uniform temperatures may result in one side freezing, potentially causing thermal shock to the insulin.
- A thermocol box is
needed, provide insulation from external environment, surrounded by ice packs helps maintain constant temperature for few hours inside the box. - Insulin should be covered with cotton when placed in thermacol box with ice packs to prevent the contact side from freezing or getting wet, which may erode the label.
Type of deteriorations
Physical deterioration: This can include changes in the insulin’s appearance, such as clumping, precipitation, or discoloration. Insulin that has undergone physical deterioration may not be safe or effective to use.
Chemical deterioration: Insulin can chemically degrade when exposed to improper storage conditions, such as extremes of temperature or light. This degradation can lead to a loss of potency, meaning the insulin may not effectively lower blood sugar levels as intended.
When to discard insulin
- Once opened, insulin cartridges /pens can be stored in the refrigerator for 28 days. It’s important to discard them after this period.
- However, if the cartridges /pens remain unopened, they can be stored until the expiry date at proper temperature.
- Some insulin manufacturers recommend storing unopened insulin at room temperature for up to 28 days.
- An insulin product that has been diluted or removed from the manufacturer’s original vial should be discarded within two weeks.
- Uncleared, frozen, viscous should be discarded.
- Insulin in infusion sets of insulin pumps, reservoirs, catheters should be discarded after 48 hours of use.
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This article provides crucial information for individuals managing diabetes, ensuring the efficacy and safety of their insulin supply. This article serves as a valuable resource, emphasizing the importance of proper storage practices to maintain the potency and effectiveness of insulin medications, ultimately promoting better health outcomes for patients.
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