Yes, glucagon can go bad. Like most medications, glucagon, particularly nasal glucagon, has a specific shelf life and requires proper storage to maintain its effectiveness. Using expired or improperly stored glucagon may render it less effective in an emergency.
Understanding Nasal Glucagon's Shelf Life
Nasal glucagon is a common form of glucagon used to treat severe low blood sugar. It's crucial to be aware of its durability and storage requirements.
According to product information, the shelf life for nasal glucagon is typically 2 years from the date of manufacture. This period is valid only when the product is properly stored in its original plastic packaging.
Upon purchasing nasal glucagon from a pharmacy, it's common for the product to have an expiry date that is usually around 18 months away, meaning a portion of the 2-year shelf life has already passed since its manufacturing date.
Key Factors Affecting Glucagon's Potency
Several factors can influence how long glucagon remains effective:
- Manufacturing Date: The shelf life begins from the day the product is manufactured.
- Storage Conditions: Proper storage is paramount to ensure the medication remains stable until its expiry date.
- Expiry Date: Always check the printed expiry date on the packaging.
- Physical Damage: Damage to the packaging or the device itself can compromise the medication.
Storage Guidelines for Nasal Glucagon
To ensure your nasal glucagon remains effective, adhere to these storage recommendations:
- Original Packaging: Always keep the nasal glucagon in its original plastic packaging until needed.
- Temperature Stability: The product is designed to withstand temperatures up to 30°C (86°F). Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or direct sunlight.
- Note Expiry: When you purchase nasal glucagon at a pharmacy, make sure to note the expiry date. This date indicates when the product can no longer be guaranteed to be fully potent.
Glucagon Shelf Life Summary
Here’s a quick overview of key facts regarding nasal glucagon's shelf life:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard Shelf Life | 2 years from the date of manufacture |
| Proper Storage | In its plastic packaging |
| Temperature Limit | Withstands temperatures up to 30°C (86°F) |
| Typical Purchase Life | Around 18 months remaining from purchase date (due to manufacturing lead time) |
| Action | Always check and note the expiry date upon purchase |
What Happens if Glucagon Goes Bad or Expires?
Using expired glucagon is not recommended. Over time, the active ingredient can degrade, reducing its potency and making it less effective in raising blood sugar levels during a severe hypoglycemic event. This could lead to dangerous delays in treatment.
Practical Tips:
- Regular Checks: Periodically check the expiry date of your glucagon, especially if it's stored in a kit that isn't frequently accessed.
- Replacement: Replace your glucagon before or immediately after its expiry date. You can often set a reminder on your phone or calendar.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of expired medication responsibly according to local guidelines, which often involves returning it to a pharmacy or using drug take-back programs.
By understanding and adhering to the shelf life and storage instructions for nasal glucagon, you can ensure that this critical emergency medication is ready and effective when you need it most.
