Ever wondered if Dupixent needs to be refrigerated? You’re not alone! Dupixent, also known by its generic name Dupilumab, is a medication used to treat certain skin conditions such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. Before we delve into the topic, it’s essential to understand what Dupixent is and how it works.
Understanding Dupixent
What is Dupixent?
Dupixent is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. It is specifically designed to target proteins in the body that contribute to the inflammation associated with skin conditions like eczema.
How does Dupixent work?
Dupixent works by blocking the action of certain proteins, including interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), which are believed to play a role in the development of eczema and atopic dermatitis. By blocking these proteins, Dupixent helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.
Benefits of Dupixent
Dupixent has been proven to be effective in treating moderate to severe eczema and atopic dermatitis in adults and children aged six years and older. Clinical trials have shown that Dupixent can significantly improve symptoms, including itching, redness, and skin lesions. Many patients have reported a marked improvement in their quality of life after starting Dupixent treatment.
Dupixent Storage Requirements
Now that we have a better understanding of what Dupixent is and how it works, let’s address the question at hand: Does Dupixent need to be refrigerated?
Storage guidelines for Dupixent
According to the medication’s prescribing information, Dupixent should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). It is important to keep the medication in its original carton to protect it from light until it is ready for use. However, in some cases, Dupixent can be kept at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days. After this time, any unused Dupixent should be discarded.
Special considerations for traveling
If you are traveling and need to transport Dupixent, it is advisable to use a cold storage bag or a cooler with gel packs to maintain the recommended temperature range. However, Dupixent should not be stored directly on ice or frozen.
Reasons Behind the Refrigeration Requirement
Preserving the medication’s efficacy
The main reason Dupixent needs to be refrigerated is to ensure the medication’s potency and efficacy. Like many other biologic drugs, Dupixent can be sensitive to heat and light. By storing it in the refrigerator, the drug’s active ingredients remain stable, reducing the risk of degradation or loss of effectiveness.
Prolonging shelf life
Refrigeration helps to extend the shelf life of Dupixent, allowing patients to use their medication for its full intended duration. This is especially important, considering that Dupixent is a relatively expensive treatment option and proper storage helps avoid any wastage.
Tips for Properly Storing Dupixent
Follow the prescribing instructions
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s packaging. If refrigeration is required, make sure to store Dupixent in the refrigerator promptly after purchase or when you receive it from the pharmacy.
Avoid temperature extremes
Besides refrigeration, it’s crucial to protect Dupixent from extreme temperatures that could compromise its stability. Avoid leaving the medication in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or near a heat source such as a radiator.
Check for any signs of compromise
Before using Dupixent, visually inspect the medication to ensure it has not been damaged during storage. Look for any discoloration or particles in the solution. If you notice anything unusual, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
Dispose of expired or compromised medication
If your Dupixent has exceeded its expiration date or has been compromised in any way, do not use it. Instead, dispose of it properly as recommended by your healthcare provider or local pharmacy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dupixent is a medication commonly used to treat eczema and atopic dermatitis. While it is generally advisable to store Dupixent in the refrigerator to maintain its effectiveness, certain circumstances allow for temporary storage at room temperature. It is important to follow the storage guidelines provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s packaging to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the storage or usage of Dupixent, always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.