Insulin Storage and Syringe Safety Information

Insulin Storage

Although manufacturers recommend storing your insulin in the refrigerator, injecting cold insulin can sometimes make the injection more painful. To counter the reaction, many providers suggest storing the bottle of insulin you are using at room temperature. Insulin kept at room temperature will last approximately one (1) month.

Remember though, if you buy more than one bottle at a time -- a possible money saver -- store the extra bottles in the refrigerator. Then, take out the bottle ahead of time so it is ready for your next injection.

Do not store your insulin near extreme heat or extreme cold. Never store insulin in the freezer, direct sunlight, or in the glove compartment of a car.

Make sure that you check the expiration date, especially if you have had the bottle for a while. Don't use any insulin beyond its expiration date and examine the bottle closely to make sure the insulin looks normal before you draw the insulin into the syringe. If you use regular, check for particles or discoloration of the insulin. If you use NPH or lente, check for "frosting" or crystals in the insulin on the inside of the bottle or for small particles or clumps in the insulin.

If you find any of these in your insulin, do not use it, and return the unopened bottle to the pharmacy for an exchange and/or refund.

Syringe Reuse

Many people safely reuse their insulin syringes. However, if you are ill, have open wounds on your hands, or have poor resistance to infection, you should not risk insulin syringe reuse. Syringe makers will not guarantee the sterility of syringes that are reused. Keep the needle clean by keeping it capped when you're not using it. Cleaning it with alcohol removes the coating that helps the needle slide into the skin easily. Never let the needle touch anything but clean skin and the top of the insulin bottle.

Most important, never let anyone use a syringe you've already used, and don't use anyone else's syringe. Reusing syringes may help you cut costs, avoid buying large supplies of syringes, and reduce waste. However, talk with your doctor or nurse before you begin reusing. They can help you decide whether it would be a safe choice for you.

Syringe Disposal

It's time to dispose of an insulin syringe when the needle is dull or bent or if it has come in contact with anything other than clean skin. Your syringe is medical waste. If you can do it safely, clip the needles off the syringes. When you remove the needle, no one can use the syringe. It's best to buy a device that clips, catches, and contains the needle. Do not use scissors to clip off needles - the flying needle could hurt someone or become lost. If you don't destroy your needles, recap them. Place the needle or entire syringe in an opaque (not clear) heavy-duty plastic bottle with a screw cap or a plastic or metal box that closes firmly.

Do not use a container that will allow the needle to break through or recycle your syringe container. Your area may have rules for getting rid of medical waste such as used syringes. Ask your refuse company, city or county waste authority what method meets their rules. When traveling, bring your used syringes home. Pack them in a heavy-duty holder, such as a hard plastic pencil box, for transport.

To learn more about safe needle disposal in your area, click here.