Wegovy (semaglutide) has gained attention as an effective weight loss medication, offering promising results for those struggling with obesity. However, to ensure its safety and effectiveness, proper storage is essential.
If you’ve ever wondered about the correct way to store your Wegovy or the potential consequences of improper storage, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the key storage requirements for Wegovy and what happens if you don’t follow them. We will also provide you with actionable guidelines to ensure your medication remains safe and effective.
Why Wegovy Needs to Be Refrigerated
Like other medications based on semaglutide, Wegovy is temperature sensitive. Its stability can be compromised if it’s stored improperly, leading to a loss in potency and effectiveness. Both the manufacturer and the FDA provide strict guidelines for storing Wegovy, specifying that it should always be refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
Maintaining the correct temperature ensures that the drug remains stable and effective, which is crucial for your weight loss treatment to succeed. Without proper refrigeration, the active ingredients in Wegovy may degrade, potentially making the medication less effective or even unsafe.
How to Store Wegovy Correctly in the Fridge
The ideal storage conditions for Wegovy are simple but critical:
- Temperature range: Ensure that the medication stays between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- Keep in original packaging: This will help protect Wegovy from exposure to light, which could affect its stability.
- Avoid freezer coils: Make sure the medication is stored in a part of the fridge that doesn’t get too cold, as freezing can damage the medication.
- Never use frozen Wegovy: If Wegovy has been frozen, it should not be used under any circumstances.
- Minimize temperature fluctuations: Frequent changes in temperature can also reduce the medication’s effectiveness.
What Happens If Wegovy Isn’t Refrigerated
Improper storage, particularly failing to refrigerate Wegovy, can result in significant consequences. The active ingredient, semaglutide, is highly sensitive to temperature changes, and when stored incorrectly, it can undergo chemical breakdown.
This degradation can lead to a loss of potency, meaning the medication might also not work. In some cases, using Wegovy that hasn’t been stored properly could result in reduced weight loss and may even increase the risk of side effects, reducing potential therapeutic benefits.
It’s also important to note that if you’re traveling or transporting Wegovy, you should keep detailed records of its storage conditions. If you’re unable to refrigerate the medication during your journey, it’s essential to be mindful of the 28-day room temperature usage window (which we’ll discuss below).
Can Wegovy Be Used at Room Temperature?
Wegovy can safely be used at room temperature for up to 28 days, but this must be done with care. If you take your medication out of the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature, you mustn’t return it to the refrigerator afterward. Once Wegovy has been removed from refrigeration, the clock starts ticking, and it should be used within those 28 days to ensure its efficacy.
Room-temperature pens are generally safe for use during this window, but always check the medication for signs of degradation (we’ll cover this in more detail later) before using it.
How Long Should Wegovy Sit Out Before Injecting?
Before administering your Wegovy injection, it’s recommended that you let the medication sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the medication to warm up slightly, making the injection more comfortable. Warming Wegovy to room temperature also helps preserve its potency, as injections of cold liquid can be uncomfortable and possibly less effective.
However, it’s important to note that you should not attempt to warm Wegovy artificially. Do not place the pen near a heat source or hot water, as this can damage the medication and compromise effectiveness.
What Happens If You Don’t Refrigerate Semaglutide (Including Ozempic)?
Both Wegovy and Ozempic, another semaglutide-based medication, require refrigeration before use. Failing to properly refrigerate these medications can degrade the active ingredient, leading to reduced effectiveness or even potential side effects.
Suppose your Wegovy or Ozempic has been stored improperly. In that case, it’s crucial to check it carefully for any signs of spoilage and consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect the medication has been compromised. It’s always better to err on the side of caution regarding your health and the effectiveness of your treatment.
The SELECT Trial: Long-Term Efficacy of Wegovy
The SELECT trial, a significant study reported in BMJ, evaluated the long-term effects of Wegovy (semaglutide) from 2018 to 2023. This trial involved over 17,600 adults across 41 countries who had cardiovascular disease and a BMI of 27 or higher (excluding diabetes) [1].
The study demonstrated that Wegovy provided sustained weight loss over a four-year period across diverse demographics. Additionally, it showed that individuals taking Wegovy experienced fewer serious adverse events compared to those on the placebo, further confirming Wegovy’s safety and efficacy in weight management.
This trial not only supports the medication’s role in weight loss but also highlights its potential in reducing cardiovascular risk, adding to its overall therapeutic value.
Signs Wegovy Has Gone Bad
- If the medication has been stored improperly, it may become cloudy, develop particles, or change color.
- Cloudiness or discoloration are clear signs that the medication is no longer safe to use.
- If you notice these changes or if the pen is past its expiration date (especially if storage issues occurred), it’s crucial to discard the medication. Never use a pen that appears damaged, as it could be ineffective or unsafe.
Final Thoughts
Proper storage is critical for ensuring that Wegovy remains both safe and effective. By keeping the medication refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and following all recommended storage guidelines, you can protect both your health and your investment in this weight loss treatment.
In summary:
- Wegovy should be stored in the fridge.
- It can safely be used at room temperature for up to 28 days.
- If it’s been improperly stored or shows signs of spoilage, do not use it.
If you’re ever uncertain about how to store or use Wegovy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. At My Concierge MD, we are always here to help you with any questions about your medications and health journey.
Ready to get the most out of your Wegovy treatment? Schedule a consultation with My Concierge MD today and ensure you’re using your medication correctly for optimal results.
References:
1. Mahase E. Semaglutide may provide sustained weight loss for at least four years, study reports. BMJ. Published online May 16, 2024:q1113. doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.q1113
