Insulin not stored in fridge

[Rosiecarmel]

I left a cartridge of insulin at my friends and she said she would look after it til I saw her again. Now she didn't know insulin needs to be kept in the fridge and I forgot to tell her, assuming she already knew. She brought it round today but it's been at hers for 2 weeks in her bathroom cabinet. Should I use it or discard it?

 

[Mini-Vicki]

Assuming her bathroom hasn't got too hot, you should be able to use the insulin for another 14 days, because insulin can be kept at room temp for 28 days.
But if you're unsure, just discard it for your peace of mind 🙂

 

[Copepod]

I'd ask about bathroom temperature. I'd discard if it's been left on a sunny windowsill, near radiator / heated towel rail etc, but if nothing above normal room temp (up to 28oC in most patient information leaflets, sometimes up to 30oC), otherwise I'd put it in fridge and use it when your current cartridge runs out.

 

[Steff]

For peace of mind I would just chuck it away if in any doubt

 

[Kaylz]

I agree with Steff heat from the shower, baths etc I wouldnt chance it myself x

 

[SB2015]

I would just discard it. It is not worth the hassle of dealing with problems if it is no longer okay.

 

[Lucy Honeychurch]

I'd probably ditch it, just in case.

 

[mikeyB]

I'm rather with mini-vicki and Copepod on this, a bathroom cabinet is not likely to reach a temperature that would denature insulin, so I would be confident about using it as long as it's within the 28 day limit. Just my opinion, of course. Maybe it's not worth the risk. Your call, Rosie.🙂