Does Wegovy Need Refrigeration? 30 Days Room Temp + Forgot Protocol

Yes, unopened Wegovy pens must stay refrigerated (36-46°F), while opened pens are good at room temperature below 86°F for 28 days max.

If you’ve been prescribed Wegovy for your weight loss journey, proper storage is essential to maintain the medication’s effectiveness. This FDA-approved weight loss medication contains semaglutide, an active ingredient that’s sensitive to temperature fluctuations, direct sunlight, and excessive heat.

According to Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, your Wegovy pen can survive up to 28 days outside the fridge if kept below 86°F (30°C). Forgot your pen overnight? It’s usually safe just return it to the refrigerator the next day.

TL;DR

• Yes, Wegovy needs to be refrigerated. 
• Store unopened Wegovy pens in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C-8°C) until the expiration date. 
• If refrigeration isn’t available, Wegovy can be stored at room temperature (46°F-86°F) for up to 28 days with the pen cap on. 
• Never freeze Wegovy discard immediately if frozen. 
• Always keep the pen in its original carton to protect from light. 
• If exposed to temperatures above 86°F, discard the medication.

Wegovy Refrigeration Rules – Official FDA Storage

Understanding how to store Wegovy properly ensures your weight management medication works as intended. The FDA prescribing information provides clear guidelines for Wegovy storage.

1. Unopened pens: Refrigerate Wegovy between 36°F and 46°F (2-8°C) until the expiration date typically 12-18 months from manufacture. The shelf life remains intact when stored at the ideal temperature.
2. Opened/In-use pens: Once you remove a Wegovy pen from the refrigerator, it can be stored at room temperature (below 86°F/30°C) for up to 28 days. You can also keep it refrigerated during this period. Discard after 28 days regardless of remaining medication.
3. Light protection: Always keep Wegovy in its original carton to protect from light exposure, which can degrade the semaglutide molecules.

How Long Can Wegovy Stay Out of Fridge? 28-Day Rule

The 28-day rule is critical for anyone taking Wegovy. Once your pen leaves the fridge, the countdown begins even if you put it back.

Opened pens remain stable for 28 days cumulative from first use track the date on your pen or carton. Short room temperature exposure (under 24 hours) is safe if temperatures stayed below 86°F. Never refreeze thawed pens, and avoid storing Wegovy in areas with extreme temperatures like your car trunk or near windows with direct sunlight.

I Forgot to Refrigerate My Wegovy – Is It Safe?

Don’t panic if you forgot to refrigerate your Wegovy. Here’s what to do based on the situation:

• Overnight out (<24h, <86°F): Safe to use. Return to the refrigerator and continue your next dose as scheduled.
• 2-3 days at room temperature: Usually OK if pens remained clear and colorless. Inspect carefully before use.
• Hot car >2 hours or excessive heat exposure: Discard the pen. Higher temperatures can degrade the medication rapidly.
• Always check solution clarity before use: Discard if you notice cloudiness, particles, or discoloration. When in doubt, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Wegovy that has been stored improperly may not show visible signs of degradation, making professional guidance valuable.

Wegovy In Fridge Duration – 28 Days Opened

Understanding how long Wegovy lasts in the fridge helps you manage your weight loss medication effectively. The expiry date on your pen indicates maximum potency when stored correctly.

Pro tip: Mark the first use date on your pen or original carton. The 28-day clock starts regardless of whether you store it in the fridge or at room temperature afterward. Unopened pens last until the expiry date when refrigerated properly. According to obesity medicine experts, potency can drop significantly after day 28 don’t risk using expired medication.

When storing in your refrigerator, avoid placing Wegovy in the door or crisper drawers due to temperature fluctuations. Keep it away from food items to prevent contamination from spills. The back of middle shelves typically maintains the most consistent temperature, but avoid placing it too close to the cooling element to prevent accidental freezing.

Can Wegovy Be Frozen? Travel Storage Tips

You should never freeze Wegovy. Also, discard immediately if frozen, even after thawing. Freezing can damage the medication’s molecular structure, making it ineffective and potentially unsafe for subcutaneous use.

Travel tips for your Wegovy pen:

• Use an insulated case or cooler pack when traveling. Avoid placing Wegovy directly against ice packs wrap them in a cloth to prevent freezing.
• Room temperature storage (below 86°F) is acceptable for up to 28 days perfect for most trips.
• Always pack Wegovy in your carry-on luggage, never in checked luggage. Cargo holds experience extreme temperatures that can freeze or overheat your medication.
• When traveling by car, keep Wegovy in the passenger area. Avoid packing Wegovy in the trunk where extreme heat can accumulate.

At airport security, you can declare your Wegovy medication. The TSA allows injectable medications and cooling elements in carry-on bags. Check the expiration date before traveling to ensure your pen will still be safe throughout your trip. Dispose of used pens in a sharps container.