SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/diab-insulin-frozen

Your insulin accidentally froze. What does the FDA say?

Don't use insulin that has been frozen.

  1. Don't use it ✔
  2. Thaw it and use it
  3. Use it, but only at night

Why: Extreme cold and heat make insulin less effective. FDA says not to use insulin that has been frozen, and to keep it from freezing when packing it with ice.

Huh, didn't know that: The longer insulin is exposed to extreme heat or cold, the less effective it becomes.

The dad joke
What kind of water can't freeze? Hot water.
Like this card?
Play the game

Sources

  1. FDA, Information Regarding Insulin Storage https://www.fda.gov/drugs/emergency-preparedness-drugs/information-regarding-insulin-storage-and-switching-between-products-emergency
  2. FDA, Information Regarding Insulin Storage https://www.fda.gov/drugs/emergency-preparedness-drugs/information-regarding-insulin-storage-and-switching-between-products-emergency

Test yourself in the game

Health BasicsWhere should unopened insulin normally be stored?Health BasicsPer FDA general guidance, insulin in a maker's vial or cartridge can stay unrefrigerated up to about how long?Health BasicsWhich is a bad place to leave insulin?

That's stuff everyone should know.