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The monsoon season brings welcome relief from the summer heat, but it also creates challenges for people living with diabetes. Insulin storage may be impacted by changes in temperature, power outages and humidity. Insulin can be affected by temperature changes as a medicine appropriate storage may decrease its effectiveness and help stabilize blood sugar.
During the rainy season, many people may make common insulin storage mistakes which can risk their health, says Dr. Sri Karan Uddesh Tanugula Consultant General Physician at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad. Let's take a look at a few of the common mistakes to be made and the proper way to store insulin in the monsoon season.
Insulin is a protein-based medication that can lose its potency when exposed to extreme heat, freezing temperatures or excess moisture. Monsoon weather often brings high humidity along with sudden changes in temperature, which may affect insulin if it is not stored correctly.
After a while, insulin may not work as effectively in regulating blood sugars. This can cause a person to have a high glucose level all year long and make them more likely to have problems from diabetes.
For convenience, many people store medicines in their bathroom and kitchen. However, moisture levels in these zones typically are high, particularly during the monsoons. Insulin loses effectiveness over time if there is too much humidity. Rather, store insulin in a cold, dry place out of the reach of moisture.
2. Using insulin that has been frozen or overheated
Never use if accidentally frozen or heated too much. Insulin loses its activity when frozen and it is less effective at high temperatures. Avoid storing insulin close to the freezer compartment, near windows receiving direct sunlight or inside parked vehicles.
3. Not refrigerating unopened insulin
Insulin should be stored in the refrigerator (2 - 8 ) until it is used, when it is not being used, but should not be kept in a freezer. After opening, most insulin pens or vials can be stored at room temperatures for a manufacturer recommended time (usually up to 30 days) when protected from heat or direct sunlight.
Always inspect insulin before injecting it. Do not use insulin if it:
During humid conditions, more care is needed while travelling. Dr. Tanugula says insulin should be taken in an insulated medical pouch to which a cold pack is added. Insulin should never, however, contact the frozen ice packs directly since it may be damaged when it is frozen.
Moreover, make sure always to review the expiration date prior to each outing, and never leave insulin inside a vehicle (including parked cars).
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
