Does Semaglutide Need to be Refrigerated? How to store Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.

Key Points

• Injectable semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) requires refrigeration before first use
• Ozempic can be stored at room temperature after opening for up to 56 days
• Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) does not need refrigeration and should be stored at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F in a dry place
• Improper storage reduces medication effectiveness by breaking down the molecular structure, leading to poor blood sugar control and diminished weight loss benefits

Your semaglutide may sit in your fridge, but you're heading out for a weekend trip. Do you pack it in your suitcase, or does it need special handling? What if you’re using oral semaglutide and not the injectable version?

The answer isn't the same for every semaglutide medication.

Storage requirements vary between injectable and oral forms of semaglutide. Learn more.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a prescription medication that mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a natural hormone your body releases after eating.

It works by targeting brain receptors that control hunger and satiety signals, slowing digestion and stomach emptying to help you feel full longer, and helping your body release insulin when blood sugar levels rise.

Semaglutide comes in two main forms:

Injectable semaglutide is administered once weekly through a pre-filled pen and is available as:

• Ozempic for type 2 diabetes management
• Wegovy for weight loss and obesity treatment

Oral semaglutide is taken as a daily tablet and is available as Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes.

All three brands contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but serve different purposes.

As Dr. Gia Eapen, MD, explains: "Proper storage of semaglutide medications is essential to maintain their effectiveness. It’s important to understand that different brands have distinct storage requirements that directly impact how the drugs work.”

Does semaglutide need to be refrigerated?

The refrigeration requirements for semaglutide depend on whether you're using the injectable or oral form.

• Injectable semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) requires refrigeration before first use
• Ozempic can be stored at room temperature after opening for 56 days
• Wegovy can be stored in the original carton at 46 °F to 86 °F for 28 days if needed
• Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) does not need refrigeration and should be stored at room temperature in a dry place

Ozempic storage guidelines

Below are the storage guidelines for Ozempic:

• Store unopened pens in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)
• After first use, you can keep Ozempic at room temperature (59°F to 86°F) for up to 56 days
• You can also continue refrigerating after opening for the same 56-day period
• Always keep the pen cap on when not in use
• Never freeze the medication

Wegovy storage guidelines

Below are the storage guidelines for Wegovy:

• Refrigerate unopened pens at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)
• Wegovy can be stored in the original carton at 46 °F to 86 °F (8 °C to 30 °C) for up to 28 days before removing the pen cap
• Store in the original carton and packaging to protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat
• Do not freeze the medication

Both injectable forms should be stored away from the cooling element in your refrigerator and kept upright whenever possible.

Rybelsus storage requirements

Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) is more convenient for travel and daily storage since it does not require special temperature control.

Rybelsus storage guidelines:

• Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
• No refrigeration required or recommended
• Keep tablets in their original bottle to protect them from moisture
• Store in a cool, dry place away from bathroom humidity

What happens when semaglutide is not refrigerated?

Improper storage can significantly impact the medication's effectiveness and safety.

Reduced effectiveness

When injectable semaglutide is exposed to incorrect temperatures, the medication's molecular structure begins to break down. This degradation can reduce its strength (potency). Blood sugar control may become less effective, and the benefits of weight loss may be reduced.

Safety concerns

Using improperly stored semaglutide can create safety risks:

• The medication may cause unexpected side effects
• Bacterial growth could occur in compromised solutions
• Chemical changes might produce harmful byproducts

How can you tell if semaglutide has gone bad?

For injectable semaglutide, look for visual changes, like cloudiness, discoloration, or floating particles. The solution should always be clear and colorless.

For oral semaglutide, check for changes in tablet appearance, unusual odors, or crumbling. When in doubt, contact your pharmacist before using the medication.

How to handle semaglutide during travel?

Traveling with semaglutide is manageable with simple planning. Injectable semaglutide needs to be kept cool during travel, whereas pills are more travel-friendly. Both should stay in carry-on bags and in their original containers for easy identification.

For injectable forms (Ozempic, Wegovy), the pens can be packed in an insulated travel case or a small cooler to keep them chilled and maintain the recommended (36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C). Don't let the pens touch the ice directly, or they might freeze and get ruined. It’s best to keep the meds in the boxes they came in so airport security can easily identify them.

For oral semaglutide (Rybelsus), the pill bottle can be kept at room temperature.

When going through security, inform the TSA agents that you have prescription medicine and present them with the labeled packaging. Carry the original prescription from your healthcare provider with you.

If you have questions, please contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Final thoughts

Storing your semaglutide correctly is essential to ensure the medication works effectively. Injectable semaglutide needs careful temperature control, but oral semaglutide is simpler to store and can be kept at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can semaglutide go bad?

Yes, semaglutide can lose its effectiveness over time, especially when stored improperly. Injectable forms are more sensitive to temperature changes, while oral forms are generally more stable. Always check expiration dates and follow storage guidelines to ensure your medication remains effective.

How long does semaglutide take to work?

Semaglutide effects take time. You'll likely notice a decrease in hunger within the first couple of weeks, and your appetite should stabilize after about four to five weeks of treatment.

Weight loss results also happen over time. Studies show people lose about 15% of their starting weight after 68 weeks of consistent use. Blood sugar control may take longer to fully kick in, with significant improvements typically showing up between 26 and 40 weeks of treatment.

Do both Ozempic and Wegovy need refrigeration?

Yes, both Ozempic and Wegovy require refrigeration before first use. However, Ozempic can stay at room temperature (59°F to 86°F) for up to 56 days after first use.

If needed, Wegovy can be stored in the original carton at 46 °F to 86 °F (8 °C to 30 °C)  for up to 28 days before removing the pen cap.

Can you use semaglutide after expiration?

No, never use expired semaglutide. The FDA warns against using any medications past their expiration date. Effectiveness and safety cannot be guaranteed. Expired semaglutide may not control blood sugar effectively or provide weight loss benefits, and could potentially cause adverse reactions.

How can semaglutide be put in checked luggage?

It is recommended to pack semaglutide in carry-on bags and not in checked luggage. This is because room temperatures can vary in the cargo hold.

How long can Ozempic stay out of the fridge?

Ozempic should be refrigerated before first use. After the first use, Ozempic can be stored at room temperature for up to 56 days.

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The views expressed by authors and contributors of such content are not endorsed or approved by Fay and are intended for informational purposes only. The content is reviewed by Fay only to confirm educational value and audience interest. You are encouraged to discuss any questions that you may have about your health with a healthcare provider.