Why did a diabetic teaching nurse say to not use Lantis (Injectable Insulin) past 28 days after opened?!
Question: Why did a diabetic teaching nurse say to not use Lantis (Injectable Insulin) past 28 days after opened.?
There is nothing on the box or bottle that says this.Health Question & Answer
Answers:
The makers of insulin will not guarantee effectiveness on vials opened longer than 28 days. Insulin vials begin to lose potency beginning at the moment they are first opened and used. For that reason, you are directed to discard any open vial after that 28 day period. It wouldn't necessarily harm you, the insulin dose may just not be as effective as it should be, and you would require more. The product insert paperwork will direct you to do this, and you will find that information in the section where it talks about where and how to store your insulin. As a rule, most pharmacies put stickers on the outside of the box directing you to discard the insulin vial after 28 days. You should always record in pen on the side of the vial label the date and time you opened it. This way you will not have to guess when it should be discarded, nor will anyone else who handles it.Health Question & Answer
It's less effective. It won't hurt you necessarily, it just won't work as it should. There should be a "use by" date on the box it comes in. Ask your doctor for sure, though.Health Question & Answer