If you’re using semaglutide, it is important to understand how to store it properly. Proper storage of your semaglutide is key to maintaining the efficacy and the safety of the medication. This information will differ slightly depending on what type of semaglutide you are using.
Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain the active ingredient semaglutide, but they serve different medical purposes. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes management, while Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight. Throughout this article, any reference to semaglutide for weight loss refers to Wegovy. Mentions of semaglutide for blood sugar control refer to Ozempic.
How to Store Wegovy and Ozempic Pens
Wegovy comes in single dose prefilled pens, so you will only need to understand how to store these prior to use. Ozempic, on the other hand, comes in multiple dose prefilled pens and there are different storage requirements for before and after use.
How to Store Semaglutide Pens Before Use
Semaglutide pens should be stored in the refrigerator prior to first use. This helps keep the medication stable and safe for use.
Your Ozempic pens must be stored between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 8 degrees Celsius). Wegovy can be stored outside of the refrigerator with the pen cap still on for up to 28 days (46°F to 86°F), but it is recommended that you refrigerate.
How to Store Semaglutide Pens After One Use
Your Ozempic pens will come with multiple doses, so they will need to be stored between first use and last use.
Once you’ve used your Ozempic pen, store it:
- At room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C), OR
- In the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
For best results, it is recommended that the medication be kept refrigerated.
How Long Can You Store Semaglutide?
If you have not yet used your semaglutide, you can store it in the refrigerator until the expiration date (“EXP”) printed on the label. As mentioned above, Wegovy can be stored outside of the refrigerator with the pen cap still on for up to 28 days (46°F to 86°F)—though refrigeration is recommended.
Once you have used your Ozempic pen, it can be kept for 56 days or until the expiration date, whichever comes first.
Remember to mark the disposal date after first use. It is important that you dispose of the pen/vial after the viability period ends, even if there’s still medication left in it.
Where to Store Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is typically stored in the refrigerator, though there are circumstances where it could be stored at room temperature (which are outlined above). The important things to note:
- Keep Away from Heat and Light: Store your semaglutide away from heat sources and out of direct light to maintain their potency. It is actually recommended that you keep them in their original box while storing to prevent excess light exposure.
- Refrigerator Storage: Do not store your semaglutide medication directly next to the cooling element in your refrigerator. The fridge can be colder in this area and it can make the medication too cold.
Do You Know What Temperature to Store Semaglutide?
Below is a chart to show the recommended storage temperatures for semaglutide:
| Before First Use | After First Use |
| Between 36°F and 46°F | Refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F or Room temperature between 59°F to 86°F |
| until expiration date | 56 days or until expiration |
Do You Store Semaglutide In The Fridge?
Yes. Semaglutide should be stored in the fridge until its first use. Remember to keep the medication away from the cooling element and protect it from light exposure.
Can You Store Semaglutide At Room Temperature?
If you are using Wegovy (a single-use pen), you have the option to store the pens outside of the refrigerator with the pen cap still on for up to 28 days (46°F to 86°F)
Do You Store Semaglutide In The Freezer?
You should never freeze semaglutide. This will negatively impact the efficacy and can make the medication unsafe to use. If your medication has frozen, do not use it.
Contact Doctor to Get Your Semaglutide Prescription Online
If you’re ready to get started with semaglutide for weight loss, Heally can help. We make it easy to get your semaglutide prescription online.
Register with Heally today and connect with a semaglutide doctor!
Sources
- Novo Nordisk Ozempic: Using your Ozempic® pen
- Novo Nordisk Ozempic: Ozempic Guide
- Novo Nordisk Wegovy: Wegovy Quickstart Guide
- Healthline: Wegovy Refrigeration and Storage Tips
Important Medical Information and Disclaimers
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Semaglutide is the active ingredient in two FDA-approved prescription medications: Ozempic, approved for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related medical condition. Although both medications contain semaglutide, they are approved for different uses and have different dosing schedules. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment plan.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS VARY
Outcomes with semaglutide treatment vary from person to person. Clinical trial data may not reflect typical real-world experiences. A variety of factors can affect your results, including medication adherence, lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise, metabolic differences, other health conditions, and concurrent medications. No specific result is guaranteed.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Common side effects of semaglutide may include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Stomach pain, Decreased appetite, Indigestion, Belching or gas, Injection site reactions
These side effects are often mild and may lessen over time. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are currently taking before starting semaglutide. Ongoing monitoring is recommended during treatment.
WARNING: Semaglutide has a boxed warning about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Do not use this medication if you or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
FDA ADVERSE EVENT REPORTING
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Adverse events may also be reported directly to the manufacturer.
