Health authorities stress the temperature sensitivity of human insulin, advising protection from heat and freezing, with manufacturers suggesting low‐temperature storage for intact vials, and once opened, storage at room temperature for four to six weeks, though usage time and maximum temperature recommendations vary. For human insulin, the recommendations of current shelf life in use may range from 10 to 45 days, and the maximum temperature of 25 °C. Optimal cold‐chain management of human insulin from manufacturing until the point of delivery to people with diabetes should always be maintained, and people with diabetes and access to reliable refrigeration should follow manufacturers' recommendations ^(1).

Insulin Storage

• Do’sDont’s

No direct exposure to extremes of temperature such as

• direct sunlight,

• kitchen,

• Closed cars,

• Green houses,

• Top of the refrigerator, and television

Insulin Pens and vials, which are not in active use,

• Do’s Dont’s

Should not frozen
Never be stored with needles

Reference

1.       Richter B, Bongaerts B, Metzendorf MI. Thermal stability and storage of human insulin - Richter, B - 2023 | Cochrane Library. [cited 2025 May 29]; Available from: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD015385.pub2/full

2. Jacob JJ. Insulin Storage Guidance for Patients with Diabetes Using Insulin. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2023 Mar-Apr;27(2):93-95. doi: 10.4103/2230-8210.374161