Humira is a widely used medication that is commonly prescribed to treat various conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. Proper storage of this medication is essential to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Many people wonder if Humira needs to be refrigerated, and this article will provide a complete guide to storing this medication.
Humira, also known as adalimumab, is a type of biologic drug that works by reducing inflammation in the body. It comes in the form of pre-filled syringes or pens that are injected under the skin. As a medication that needs to be stored properly, understanding its storage requirements is crucial to maintain its potency and effectiveness.
Storing Humira at Room Temperature
Unopened Humira
Unopened Humira can be stored at room temperature, which is typically around 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), for up to 14 days. This means that you can keep your unopened Humira syringes or pens in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. However, try to avoid storing them near a heat source, like radiators or stoves.
Opened Humira
Once you have opened the packaging of Humira, it needs to be used immediately. If you have any leftover medication, it should not be kept for later use. Discard any opened Humira syringes or pens that have not been used.
Refrigerating Humira
Unopened Humira
Although unopened Humira can be stored at room temperature, it is also safe to refrigerate it. If you live in a warmer climate or your home gets unusually hot, storing your unopened Humira in the refrigerator can help ensure its stability. This is especially important if you need to stock up on Humira for an extended period.
If you decide to refrigerate your unopened Humira, it is essential not to freeze it. Freezing can damage the medication and render it ineffective. Keep the unopened Humira syringes or pens in their original packaging and make sure they are not exposed to extreme temperatures.
Opened Humira
Once you have opened a Humira syringe or pen, it should not be refrigerated. Instead, it should be stored at room temperature and used as soon as possible. Refrigeration could cause condensation, which may affect the medication’s integrity and effectiveness. Therefore, only refrigerate unopened Humira, and use opened Humira promptly.
Transporting Humira
When it comes to transporting Humira, it is crucial to ensure the medication remains within the appropriate temperature range. If you have an upcoming trip or need to carry your medication with you, there are a few things to keep in mind.
If you are traveling by car and have air conditioning, you can store your Humira at room temperature during the journey. However, if you don’t have air conditioning or the weather is exceptionally hot, it may be safer to transport your Humira in a cooler bag with ice packs. Make sure the medication does not directly touch the ice packs to prevent freezing.
When flying, Humira can be kept at room temperature for up to 14 days, regardless of whether the package has been opened or not. However, it is always a good idea to check with your airline and consult their guidelines regarding the transport of medication. Some airlines may allow you to carry refrigerated medication with you as long as you have proper documentation, such as a letter from your healthcare provider.
Tips for Storing Humira
It is important to follow these general guidelines to store Humira properly and ensure its effectiveness:
1. Keep Humira in its original packaging until ready to use.
2. Store unopened Humira at room temperature, but refrigeration is also safe.
3. Do not freeze Humira or expose it to extreme temperatures.
4. Use opened Humira promptly; do not refrigerate it.
5. Discard any unused or expired Humira in an appropriate manner.
If you have any concerns or questions about storing Humira, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist. They can provide you with specific instructions based on your individual circumstances and the specific formulation of Humira you are using.
In conclusion, Humira does not necessarily need to be refrigerated, as it can be stored at room temperature. However, refrigeration is also an acceptable option, especially in hot climates or if you need to stock up on Humira for an extended period. Remember to follow the proper storage guidelines to maintain the effectiveness and safety of this medication.