Yes, Ozempic needs to be refrigerated before its first use. According to the manufacturer, unused Ozempic pens should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
Once you’ve used the pen for the first time, you can either keep it in the refrigerator or store it at room temperature — between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C) — for up to 56 days.
An Ozempic pen can stay out of the refrigerator for up to 56 days, as long as it’s kept at room temperature and away from direct heat or light. If you accidentally leave Ozempic out overnight, it’s generally still safe to use as long as the room temperature did not exceed 86°F (30°C).
However, you must discard any pen that has been left out for more than 56 days, even if there’s still medicine inside. Always check the liquid in the pen before injecting; it should be clear and colorless. If the liquid looks cloudy, discolored, or contains particles, do not use it.
You should also never freeze Ozempic. If a pen accidentally freezes, it’s no longer safe to use and should be thrown away.
You can travel with Ozempic without a portable cooler if your trip is shorter than 56 days and you can keep the pen at room temperature. If you’re traveling to a very hot climate where temperatures might exceed 86°F (30°C), use a travel cooling case to protect the medication.
When flying, always keep your Ozempic pens in your carry-on luggage rather than checked bags. The cargo hold of an airplane can experience extreme temperature fluctuations that may freeze or overheat the medication, causing it to become ineffective.
While you can inject Ozempic while it’s still cold from the refrigerator, some people find that cold injections are more uncomfortable or cause a slight stinging sensation. To make the process more comfortable, you can take the pen out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes before your scheduled dose.
Taking the chill off the medication does not affect how the drug works. Just ensure you do not try to warm the pen quickly using a microwave, hot water, or direct sunlight, as high heat will damage the drug’s active ingredient (semaglutide).
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