flexpen travel case

I Froze My Insulin Flexpens On The Way To Europe—Tips For Traveling With Insulin Internationally

My first time traveling with insulin and i froze my insulin flexpens.

I knew that flying with diabetes and traveling with insulin was going to be tricky. Still, I never thought I would have two frozen insulin flexpens after my first international flight while on the way to Portugal for three months. It was barely a year earlier that I had been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. At age 42…and having just sold everything I owned to become a location-independent nomad. And it was my first time flying with diabetes supplies. Heck, my first time flying since diagnosis …which happened during the height of Covid.

Just to be clear, this little ditty is for you (or a friend or family member if you’re willing to share) if you are planning on traveling with insulin, regardless of what type of diabetes you may have.

About Jason Robinson // The Nomad Experiment

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I’ll talk about how I got the courage up to travel with diabetes—long-term travel internationally at that—under such ominous circumstances. We’ll also talk about insulin producers, the insulin travel case I was using, and more importantly the insulated insulin travel case that I use now. If you’re planning on traveling with insulin, it will be tricky.

So I hope this story gives you the confidence to know that you’ll figure it out when things go wrong…because they will go wrong.

READ NEXT: I just got diagnosed with Diabetes and I’m FREAKING OUT! Gifts For Diabetic Travelers—Essential Travel Items & Unexpected Gifts

Leading Up To This Trip: Selling It All, Going Nomadic, And Getting Diagnosed With Type Diabetes

Quick recap on the two years before this trip, and before I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes:

2 years before this trip – Sold my house and belongings so that I could be nomadic, after a lot of learning and life changes. Oh…I had only traveled to three countries outside the US…at age 41. After selling, I overlanded across the US then fast traveled across Europe and saw a few more countries. (To be clear, I recommend slow travel … not fast travel like I did!)
18 months before this trip – I was in Queretaro, Mexico for two months, which ended with me flying home at the beginning of travel shutdowns due to Covid.
12 months before this trip…almost to the day) – I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 42. I was single and traveling solo, so it was a pretty rough time.
3 months before this trip – I felt that I was doing “well-enough” living with diabetes while locked-down in the US. But I realized that I had to get back on the horse and figure out the ins-and-outs of flying with diabetes. Well…flying with insulin more specifically, and what my digital nomad, location-independent life would entail moving forward. So I bought the ticket.

Because one thing was certain—I was not willing to let being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes stop me from experiencing the people and the world and growing in the ways that I know travel can allow us to grow.

READ NEXT: Lessons from My First Year as a New Digital Nomad – Sell It All! I Just Got Diagnosed With Diabetes And I’m FREAKING OUT!

Planning To Travel With Type 1 Diabetes

After about 8-9 months of learning how to live with Type 1 diabetes —and being forced to stay put in the US during Covid —I started planning to travel internationally again. Honestly, that idea was scary as f*ck, but again, I wasn’t willing to let fear stop me. I started kicking irrational thoughts aside and attempted to think rationally.

The reality that had eluded me to that point was that millions of people around the world live with Type 1 diabetes every day.

And most of the countries I will be visiting while I spread my wings as a world traveler are considered well-developed. Read: There is access to insulin and basic diabetes care.

Now, I understand that this is a privilege and many people with Type 1 diabetes around the world (and even in the US) may not have this opportunity. I’ll continue to advocate for change, but right now I’m playing all the cards I’ve been dealt. I know how much traveling can open my…and your…eyes, so continuing that course is a start.

To help cancel out the largest fears of traveling internationally, I started doing research to find some backup plans in specific areas. I suggest you do the same, even if you’re just planning to travel with Type 1 diabetes domestically.

READ NEXT: Analysis Paralysis? Rigid Plans Are Overrated—BackUp Plans For The Win!

Research About Travel With Type 1 Diabetes You Should Consider:

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Insulin Producers & Diabetes Around The World

One of the things I realized was that I could pack double the supplies until the cows came home, but I would need to have a backup plan for insulin and all of my diabetes supplies in case something happened.

For instance, my bag could get lost or stolen. Or hell, my hostel could burn down while I’m out exploring. Unlikely, but better to at least have a little bit of a plan. That led me to researching where our insulin comes from, and where the insulin producers were in the world.

Doing the research, I began to notice that many insulin producers are actually located in some of the exact regions I was planning to travel.

The insulin aspart flexpens I used were Novolog, and the basal insulin flexpens were Tresiba…both from the insulin producer Novo Nordisk. And Novo Nordisk is based in Europe; Denmark to be specific.

Many Other “World’s Largest” Insulin Producers Are Located In Europe

The majority of the major insulin producers in the world have licenses to produce insulin in nearly 100 countries. Combine this with the more socialized medical products and care available in Europe, and I realized that I would have options, no matter the cost, in case of an emergency.

Further research into Portugal uncovered that they really take care of their citizens so far as diabetes goes.

Citizens of Portugal that have Type 1 diabetes get free insulin …a novel idea…considering they literally need it to live. (Wish the US would get on board with that.)

Where the US has the highest cost of insulin in the world, Portugal has one of the lowest. And at the time, Portugal had the highest vaccination rate against Covid in the world.

Knowing that people with diabetes have a much higher likelihood of major complications if diagnosed with Covid, this made me feel much better about the possibility of actually getting Covid while traveling with Type 1 diabetes.

So at this point, I stopped planning to travel and bought the ticket! I got my travel medical insurance and my yearly evacuation subscription coverage. I Booked a hostel or two for the first week in Portugal so I could get my bearings…then packed my bags!

READ NEXT: Gifts For Diabetic Travelers—Essential Travel Items & Unexpected Gifts Books for Inspiration, Motivation, & Generally Slaying it at Adulting

How I Froze My Insulin Flexpens

Well, to be clear… I didn’t freeze my insulin flexpens. The very kind and well-meaning flight attendant on my long transatlantic flight to Portugal accidentally froze my insulin flexpens. Specifically, only two of my basal insulin flexpens out of the hoard of both basal and aspart flexpens I had packed.

Oh. Did I mention that I was able to pack carry-on-only for three months if Europe? And that included enough of my Freestyle Libre 2 CGM applicators! Note that the insulated insulin case that I had been using while traveling with insulin up to this point did have small icepacks, but those would not keep my insulin cold enough for an entire transatlantic flight.

Packing carry on only with type 1 diabetes medications

I didn’t yet have my game-changing, USB-powered insulin travel case cooler. I had ordered it, but it didn’t arrive by the time I left.

Before boarding my flight, I found the most important looking person I could from the airline. She was in charge of the entire crew, so I explained to her that I was a Type 1 diabetic and traveling with insulin. I asked if there was a way that I could have my insulin refrigerated while in flight, and she coordinated with an attendant.

My labeled bags for insulin when traveling internationally

“These Insulin Flexpens Can’t Be Frozen… Only Refrigerated!”

When boarding, I was very specific that my insulin flexpens couldn’t be frozen…only refrigerated. I even had written it all over the bags I had my insulin flexpens in. I handed them off and just tried not to be hella-nervous the entire flight. When we landed, I waited to be nearly the last one off and found the attendant and followed her to retrieve my insulin.

She opened the small refrigerated drawer and I saw my packet of 10 insulin flexpens… sitting on top of a bag of ice.

I knew that the attendant meant well, so I thanked her and exited the plane with my extremely cold insulin flexpens. When I got to the concourse I frantically popped off the top of each flexpen to see if my insulin was still nice and clear.

8 of the 10 flexpens were fine, but two were frozen solid…even expanding out of the end. The two that had been sitting directly on the ice for about 7 hours.

At This Point I Started Doing The Math

I knew that I had packed 1 extra flexpen for each type of insulin. Each could last me for as many as 4-6 weeks depending on my daily cardio level, eating habits, and reduced efficacy of the insulin after being opened and not refrigerated.

Many sources will tell you to travel with twice the amount of diabetes supplies necessary, but with the three-month trip I was planning, that wasn’t even possible.

I realized that I could likely make it through my entire trip with what insulin I had left, barring any other insulin-related emergencies or missteps. Regardless of that, my plan all along was to do as much research as possible about traveling with insulin and to learn some new best practices for traveling with Type 1 diabetes.

I needed to do it for myself, and also so that I could help others (that’s you) feel more confident traveling with diabetes or any other pre-existing condition. So I got to work.

Researching While In Portugal For Three Months

Now that I was settling into Portugal, I got to work with my research. Honestly, it was intimidating…but just like many other things…mostly just in my head. In each city or town in Portugal I visited, I found 1-2 pharmacies and simply started asking questions. Much like nearly every other Portuguese citizen I met, the pharmacists were extremely happy to help me and answer as many questions as I could ask.

I let them know that I was an American traveling with insulin and would be in Portugal for three months. Therefore I wanted to understand my options in case I needed to purchase more insulin or other supplies.

Explore Portugal Travel Guides

Porto Travel Guide | Sintra Travel Guide | Guimaraes Travel Guide | Aveiro Travel Guide

I showed them the exact insulin flexpens I was traveling with and they looked up the prices. When the first pharmacist told me the cost…for a box…I actually had to confirm that I had heard him right.

The cost for a box of five insulin flexpens…out of pocket without insurance…was less than $15 USD per flexpen in Portugal!

Having seen my “before insurance” costs listed back home, this was both amazing and very disheartening. Knowing that I was planning to start an insulin pump when I returned home, I also asked about generic insulin aspart vials.

Insulin Costs Are Monumentally Less Pretty Much Anywhere Outside Of The US

The cost for enough vials of insulin aspart to get me through a year would cost much less than $50 USD…without insurance…in Portugal. (smacks head)

I also asked what I would need to do to get the insulin, and let them know that I had printouts of all of my prescriptions and doctors letters from the US if I needed them. Most pharmacists said that would be enough, but some said I may just need to make a consultation appointment with their head pharmacist onsite to write me a prescription…but that it should be very inexpensive and easy.

READ NEXT: Travel Medical Insurance, Pre-Existing Conditions, & Type 1 Diabetes

Other Diabetes Supplies I Asked About While In Portugal

Note that at the time my Freestyle Libre 2 CGMs were considerably expensive out of pocket even in Portugal—around $70 USD each. And at that time in Portugal, there wasn’t an option to get any Dexcom G6 CGMs. Know that moving forward would at least help me when planning future trips. Getting insulin flexpen tips was super easy and cheap, as was the case with most of the other less critical diabetes supplies I asked about.

The Rest Of The Trip In Portugal

The rest of my reality was that would be traveling with insulin throughout Portugal, staying at different hostels, and I still needed to manage my storage. At nearly every hostel I spoke with the owner or just the staff upon check-in, and they all made accommodations for my insulin to be stored and refrigerated somewhere safe.

This was still scary, but even if I had another issue, at least I knew that I could get more insulin fairly inexpensively.

I made it the entire three months in Portugal without another problem with my insulin. And because I was walking so much and eating so healthily, I actually adjusted my daily insulin use down significantly. There was no need for me to buy more insulin during the trip.

Traveling With Insulin Now: The Insulated Insulin Travel Case I Use

Since returning to the US, having dealt with the minor emergency of freezing my insulin flexpens, I knew I had to have a better plan for airline travel as well as for when I was staying in different hostels. Handing over my insulin and trusting I would get it back…useable…was mentally exhausting.

The insulin travel case I was using with simple ice packs just wouldn’t cut it, and it wouldn’t make me feel confident. That said, this one is still the one I use daily for all of my insulin gear and insulin that doesn’t need to be refrigerated. But now I own two different-sized insulated insulin travel cases.

My main insulated insulin travel case is larger and USB-powered, so it’s essentially like a mini-refrigerator for my insulin. It’s able to keep my insulin cool endlessly if I keep it plugged in to either wall-power or a portable USB backup charger.

My other insulin travel case is smaller —enough for 3-4 vials of insulin—and has a rigid ice pack that will still keep my insulin cool for nearly a day.

My go-to insulated insulin cases to avoid freezing insulin flexpens or vials

Sometimes these things feel like they cost a lot , but at the end of the day, the gains in confidence I get from them while traveling are well worth the cost. And assuming these are treated well and maintained, I have no doubt they’ll last for years and many, many trips.

Having them means I have to worry less about traveling with insulin so that I can concentrate on all the other things I still need to learn to get comfortable with international travel with Type 1 diabetes.

Traveling With Type 1 Diabetes And Traveling With Insulin: What’s Next?

First, if you’ve read this far, thank you! If you think someone you know or love can gain some confidence or tips about traveling with Type 1 diabetes— or with any other major medical condition —please share this article with them. Second, I hope you’ve gotten something out of it!

As with living with Type 1 diabetes, learning about traveling with diabetes—especially internationally and long-term travel—will be a marathon not a sprint.

For me, I’m now on an insulin pump and a new CGM. That change means I’ve moved on from flexpens and now I’ll be traveling with insulin vials. No more need for flexpen tips. Now I’ll have to make room in my carry-on luggage for infusion sets and cartridges…at least until I know what I’ll have access to wherever I go.

Side note here: Internet research about actual costs on the ground in other countries wasn’t too helpful. That’s why I’m doing this myself. Please sign up for the email newsletter and connect on social if you want to be in the loop for more of these types of articles in the future!

As of this writing, I’m just coming up on my two-year “diaversary. ” I’m well aware that there is so much more I have to learn about how Type 1 diabetes affects me and how it affects others differently. My story is my own, and any of the things I’m learning will have to be tweaked for your situation. But I’m oddly excited about the journey ahead…both for myself and for you.

I hope you’ll reach out and connect! Leave a comment if you have anything helpful to contribute that might help others!

Cheers! (Oh…And don’t forget to share this with someone that might need to read it!) -Jason

Jason A Robinson The Nomad Experiment Author Type 1 Diabetes

About Jason Robinson

Jason is the author of “The Beginner Traveler’s Guide To Going Nomad,” as well as the voice behind the words and the eye behind the lens for The Nomad Experiment. “Planning to travel at some point” wasn’t actually getting the job done, so nearing 40 he decided to make it a priority, nomatter how scary that was. A few years later— through the pandemic and a type 1 diabetes diagnosis at age 42 —now living a life of nomadic travel, he’s speaking out to encourage others of any age, or with any serious medical diagnosis, to live an unconventional life.

READ NEXT: More Articles About Type 1 Diabetes & My Experiences I just got diagnosed with Diabetes and I’m FREAKING OUT! Diabetes Symptoms For Noobs – My Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms & Diagnosis Story Travel Medical Insurance, Pre-Existing Conditions, & Type 1 Diabetes

Travel Planning Tips

Figure out where you are going & how are you getting there… I suggest using at least 2 to 3 different travel search sites. Start with Skyscanner or Orbitz or Booking … or whatever aggregator site you prefer. Then when you see what airlines to use, check their respective sites for better deals or rewards flights.

Figure out where you’re going to stay… If you’re interested in hostels, search Hostelworld or Hostelling International. For longer-term or more private digs, look at Airbnb , VRBO, or you can look for hotel rooms in the links from the search engines listed above.

Get comprehensive travel insurance, or in the least, travel medical insurance if internationally… Especially with Covid not going anywhere, get covered. Start with an insurance aggregator like Insure My Trip, or with SafetyWing, World Nomads , or another. Then decide what is important to you; trip cancellation, baggage coverage, medical, or all of the above. And get a yearly evacuation plan, since you’ll have to get home after your emergency!

Need more resources? Click here!

The beginner traveler's guide to going nomad book by Jason A. Robinson

Tough Love, Tips & Strategies To Help You Finally Kick-Start Your Travel Life…Or Go Full Nomad!

Been wondering how the hell all those digital nomads, location-independent travelers, and remote workers, travel “full-time?” Maybe you’ve thought about living that life one day, but you’re really not sure where to start.

Beyond giving you the stepping stones to dive into short-term domestic and international travel, this book will show you how long-term travelers extend those tools, maximize their budgets, and turn weeks into months… or even years …of traveling the world indefinitely.

Far from the stuffy “self help” books of years ago …

Through it all, jason is a great teacher and inspiration, because he’s done it…, beautifully designed, fun to read, super helpful, practical, and motivating…, jason’s brave, honest and upfront writing style is as unique as it is captivating…, related posts.

Gifts For Diabetic Travelers—Essential Travel Items & Unexpected Gifts For Traveling Diabetics

Know someone with diabetes that travels? Check out these essential gifts for diabetic travelers—including many I use traveling with Type 1!

Can You Freeze Insulin? Well…No. But it’s a little more complicated than that.

You should never freeze insulin, or use insulin that’s been frozen. But what are “safe temperatures” for insulin? Here are the answers & tips on how to keep your insulin safe.

Type 1 Travel: Handling Sugar In Asian Food & Night Markets

Tips for managing type 1 diabetes and the hidden sugars often in Asian food—from my first trip to Asia…Taipei for almost 3 months!

Type 1 Diabetes True & False—Getting An Insulin Pump: Misconceptions vs. Realities

Scared of getting an insulin pump life for your type 1 diabetes? Here’s my real-world rundown of some things to get you over those fears…

Travel Medical Insurance, Pre-Existing Conditions, & Type 1 Diabetes

Travel medical insurance is already confusing. Add a pre-existing condition like Type 1 diabetes…or any other…and things can escalate quickly…

I Just Got Diagnosed With Diabetes And I’m FREAKING OUT!

What a short, strange trip it’s been. The mental, emotional, and physical rollercoaster that comes with being diagnosed with diabetes is…

How To Store Novolog Flexpen

Modified: January 6, 2024

Written by: Isabella Mitchell

Learn the best methods for storing your Novolog Flexpen in this comprehensive article. Discover tips and tricks to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your insulin pen.

Health & Lifestyle
How to store
How To Store Health & Medications

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more )

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Novolog Flexpen – a revolutionary insulin delivery system designed to make life easier for people with diabetes. Whether you’ve just started using Novolog Flexpen or you’re a long-time user, understanding how to properly store this important medication is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

In this article, we will explore the proper storage conditions for Novolog Flexpen, including the ideal temperature range, choosing the right storage location, and tips for traveling with your medication. By following these guidelines, you can maintain the quality and potency of your Novolog Flexpen, allowing you to effectively manage your diabetes and live a healthy life.

Key Takeaways:

Proper storage and handling of Novolog Flexpen is crucial for maintaining its potency and effectiveness in managing diabetes. Follow guidelines for temperature, location, and travel to ensure optimal insulin quality.
Safely handle and dispose of Novolog Flexpen to protect yourself and others. Properly store, check expiration dates, and follow safe injection and disposal practices for effective diabetes management.

Read more : How To Store Basil From Store

Understanding Novolog Flexpen

Before we dive into the specifics of storing Novolog Flexpen, let’s take a moment to understand what it is and how it works. Novolog Flexpen is a disposable pre-filled insulin pen that contains rapid-acting insulin aspart. It is used to control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The pen is designed for easy and convenient insulin delivery, with a twist-and-click mechanism that allows for precise dosing. It is important to note that Novolog Flexpen should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain its potency and effectiveness.

Proper Storage Conditions for Novolog Flexpen

To ensure the maximum efficacy of Novolog Flexpen, it is crucial to store it under the appropriate conditions. The ideal temperature range for storing Novolog Flexpen is between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). Storing the pen within this range helps to maintain the stability of the insulin and ensures its ability to effectively control blood sugar levels.

It is important to avoid freezing Novolog Flexpen, as extreme cold can affect the insulin’s structure and effectiveness. Additionally, exposing Novolog Flexpen to temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can significantly reduce its potency, resulting in less effective blood sugar control.

Furthermore, Novolog Flexpen should be protected from direct sunlight and should not be exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations. Excessive heat and light can degrade the insulin and make it less effective.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

When it comes to storing Novolog Flexpen, choosing the right location is just as important as maintaining the correct temperature. It is recommended to store the pen in a cool, dry place that is easily accessible and away from the reach of children and pets.

Avoid storing the pen near sources of heat, such as radiators or direct sunlight. Instead, opt for a storage spot that is consistently cool and away from any potential hazards.

Novolog Flexpen is a popular insulin delivery system used by individuals with diabetes. It is a pre-filled disposable pen that contains rapid-acting insulin aspart, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Understanding how Novolog Flexpen works and its benefits can help you effectively manage your diabetes.

Novolog Flexpen is designed to make insulin administration easier and more convenient. The pen features a twist-and-click mechanism that allows for precise dosing, making it simple to deliver the correct amount of insulin with each injection. This eliminates the need for traditional syringes and vials, reducing the hassle and potential errors associated with insulin administration.

Novolog Flexpen contains fast-acting insulin aspart, which means that it starts working within just 5-10 minutes after injection. This rapid action helps to quickly lower blood sugar levels after a meal. The peak effect of Novolog Flexpen occurs within 1-3 hours, making it important to take it at the right time to best match the rise in blood sugar after eating.

One of the primary advantages of using Novolog Flexpen is its convenience and portability. The pen is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. This allows for greater flexibility in managing your diabetes, as you can administer insulin injections discreetly as needed, whether you’re at home, work, or on-the-go.

Novolog Flexpen also offers consistent dosing accuracy. The pen is designed to ensure that each unit of insulin is delivered accurately, which is important for maintaining precise control over blood sugar levels. The visual indicator on the pen allows you to easily confirm the dose you are administering, minimizing the risk of under or overdosing.

One of the key features of Novolog Flexpen is its simplicity. The pen is specifically designed to be user-friendly, even for individuals who may have difficulty handling traditional syringes and vials. This makes it an excellent option for individuals with dexterity issues or those who are new to insulin administration.

Overall, Novolog Flexpen is a reliable and convenient insulin delivery system that can greatly simplify the management of diabetes. Understanding how to properly use and store Novolog Flexpen, as well as the benefits it provides, is essential for successfully managing blood sugar levels and living a healthy life with diabetes.

Proper storage of Novolog Flexpen is crucial to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the insulin. The ideal storage temperature for Novolog Flexpen is between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). Storing the pen within this temperature range helps to ensure that the insulin remains stable and retains its potency.

It is important to note that Novolog Flexpen should never be frozen. Freezing can alter the structure of the insulin, rendering it ineffective. Additionally, exposure to extreme temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can have a detrimental impact on the insulin’s potency, making it less effective in controlling blood sugar levels.

When storing Novolog Flexpen, it is important to protect it from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive light and heat can degrade the insulin, reducing its effectiveness. Avoid placing the pen near windows, radiators, or other sources of heat, and opt for a cool and dry location instead.

When selecting a storage location, it is essential to consider accessibility and safety. Choose a place that is easily reachable, especially if you need to quickly access your Novolog Flexpen for regular insulin injections. However, ensure that it is out of the reach of children and pets.

It is also important to keep the Novolog Flexpen away from any potential hazards. Avoid storing it near chemicals, cleaning agents, or any substances that could contaminate the pen or compromise the quality of the insulin. Additionally, be mindful of storing the pen securely to prevent accidental damage or tampering.

If you are planning to travel and need to bring your Novolog Flexpen along, take precautionary measures to ensure its proper storage. If you are traveling by car, avoid leaving the pen in direct sunlight or inside a hot vehicle. Consider using a cooler bag or insulated pouch to protect it from extreme heat.

If you are flying, it is important to check the airline’s guidelines regarding carrying insulin on board. Most airlines allow passengers to bring insulin and related medical supplies, but specific rules may vary. Keep the pen in your carry-on bag and inform the security personnel about your insulin before going through the security screening.

It is also crucial to regularly check the expiration date of your Novolog Flexpen. Using expired insulin can significantly affect its effectiveness, and it may not adequately control your blood sugar levels. Discard any pens that have passed their expiration date and obtain a new supply to ensure optimal diabetes management.

By following the proper storage conditions for Novolog Flexpen, you can maintain the potency and effectiveness of your insulin. This will enable you to effectively manage your diabetes and ensure that your blood sugar levels remain stable. Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific storage recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances.

When it comes to storing Novolog Flexpen, choosing the right location is essential to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the insulin. The ideal storage location should meet certain criteria to ensure the safety and integrity of the medication.

First and foremost, it is important to store Novolog Flexpen in a cool and dry place. The insulin should be kept at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C) to maintain its stability and potency. Avoid storing the pen in areas that are prone to temperature fluctuations or extreme heat, such as near radiators, direct sunlight, or heating vents.

When selecting a storage spot, accessibility is key. Choose a location that is easily reachable, especially if you need to take regular insulin injections. This will make it more convenient and increase the likelihood of consistent medication usage. However, ensure that the storage location is out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental exposure or ingestion.

It is advisable to store the Novolog Flexpen pen vertically with the cap facing up. This helps to prevent any potential leakage that may occur from extreme temperatures or accidental mishandling. Keeping the pen in an upright position also allows you to easily monitor the amount of insulin remaining in the pen, ensuring that you have an adequate supply.

Another important consideration when choosing a storage location is safety. Avoid storing Novolog Flexpen near sources of moisture, such as sinks or bathroom cabinets, as excessive humidity can affect the quality of the insulin. Additionally, keep the pen away from any potential hazards, such as chemicals or cleaning agents, that could contaminate the medication.

If you are traveling or on the go, it is essential to have a portable storage solution for your Novolog Flexpen. Consider using a travel case or insulin cooling pouch to protect the pen from temperature extremes, especially if you are in transit for an extended period or exposed to hot environments. These accessories can help maintain the desired temperature range and ensure the insulin remains effective.

In summary, choosing the right storage location for Novolog Flexpen is crucial to maintain its quality and effectiveness. A cool, dry, and easily accessible place that is out of the reach of children and pets is ideal. Ensure that the storage location is away from direct sunlight, extreme temperature fluctuations, and potential hazards. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the integrity of your Novolog Flexpen insulin and effectively manage your diabetes.

Store Novolog Flexpen at room temperature (59-86°F) or in the refrigerator (36-46°F). Do not freeze. Once in use, keep at room temperature and use within 28 days. Protect from light and heat.

Storing Novolog Flexpen at Room Temperature

Storing Novolog Flexpen at room temperature is a convenient option for individuals who prefer not to refrigerate their insulin. Room temperature storage refers to keeping the pen at a consistent temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).

Storing Novolog Flexpen at room temperature offers several advantages. It allows for easy accessibility and eliminates the need for refrigeration, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who are frequently on the go or do not have easy access to a refrigerator.

When storing Novolog Flexpen at room temperature, it is crucial to choose a suitable storage location. Select a place that is consistently cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid areas that may experience significant temperature fluctuations, such as near radiators or vents.

Avoid storing Novolog Flexpen in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. High temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can affect the potency and effectiveness of the insulin, while extremely low temperatures or freezing can lead to changes in the structure of the insulin, rendering it ineffective.

It is important to note that once in use, a Novolog Flexpen can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days. However, it is advisable to keep track of the duration of use and check the expiration date to ensure the insulin’s effectiveness and potency.

When storing Novolog Flexpen at room temperature, it is essential to keep the pen out of the reach of children and pets. Store it in an upright position with the pen cap facing up to prevent any possible leakage or accidental damage.

Regularly inspect the Novolog Flexpen for any signs of damage, discoloration, or unusual odor. If you notice any changes, do not use the pen and consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a replacement.

It is worth mentioning that storing Novolog Flexpen at room temperature should be done with caution, as temperature fluctuations, extreme heat, or exposure to light can compromise the potency and effectiveness of the insulin. If you are unsure about the storage conditions or have concerns about deviations from the recommended temperature range, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

By following the appropriate storage guidelines and being mindful of temperature conditions, you can effectively store your Novolog Flexpen at room temperature. This allows for easy accessibility and ensures that the insulin remains safe and effective for managing your diabetes.

Storing Novolog Flexpen in the Refrigerator

Storing Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator is a common and effective method to maintain the potency and effectiveness of the insulin. The refrigerator offers a controlled and cool environment that helps preserve the quality of Novolog Flexpen.

When storing Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator, it is important to choose a designated spot that is easily accessible and away from areas that may experience extreme temperatures. Avoid storing the pen near the freezer compartment or in the door, as these areas are prone to temperature fluctuations whenever the refrigerator is opened.

The ideal temperature range in the refrigerator for storing Novolog Flexpen is between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). It is important to ensure that the refrigerator is set at the appropriate temperature and that it remains consistent. Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy and make adjustments if necessary.

When placing Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging or in a protective case to shield it from any potential exposure to moisture or condensation. Be sure to position the pen upright with the pen cap facing up to avoid leaks or damage to the pen.

While storing Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator helps to maintain its potency, it is essential to avoid freezing the insulin. Freezing can alter the structure of the insulin and render it ineffective. Therefore, make sure the pen is kept at a temperature above freezing but still within the recommended range for optimal storage.

It is important to note that if you have stored your Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator, you need to allow it to come to room temperature before using it. Cold insulin can cause discomfort upon injection and may affect its absorption into the body. To warm the pen to room temperature, simply take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for approximately 15-30 minutes before use.

Regularly check the expiration date of your Novolog Flexpen and discard any pens that have expired. Using expired insulin can be ineffective in controlling blood sugar levels and may pose risks to your health. Always ensure you have an ample supply of unexpired Novolog Flexpen on hand.

By storing Novolog Flexpen in the refrigerator, you can maintain the quality and effectiveness of the insulin, ensuring it remains safe and potent for managing your diabetes.

Read more : How To Store Basil From Grocery Store

Avoiding Direct Sunlight and Extreme Temperatures

When it comes to storing Novolog Flexpen, it is crucial to protect it from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Exposure to sunlight, heat, and cold can affect the potency and effectiveness of the insulin, rendering it less effective in managing blood sugar levels.

Direct sunlight can cause the temperature to rise rapidly, resulting in an environment that is too hot for proper insulin storage . It is important to keep Novolog Flexpen away from windowsills, countertops near windows, or any other area exposed to direct sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight can degrade the insulin and reduce its effectiveness.

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can have detrimental effects on Novolog Flexpen. High temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can cause the insulin to break down and lose its potency. Similarly, freezing temperatures can alter the structure of the insulin, making it less effective or even inactive.

To avoid exposing Novolog Flexpen to extreme temperatures, it is important to store it in a temperature-controlled environment. Proper storage locations include refrigerators, as discussed previously, or cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing the pen in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as near radiators or air conditioning vents.

If you are in a situation where your Novolog Flexpen is exposed to extreme temperatures for a brief period, such as when traveling or during an outdoor activity, it is important to take precautions. Protect the pen by placing it in an insulated container or cooler bag to help maintain a more stable temperature. Do not leave the pen inside a hot car or on a windowsill, as these environments can quickly reach dangerously high temperatures.

It’s also important to note that extreme temperatures can affect the appearance of the Novolog Flexpen. If you notice any discoloration, particles, or unusual odors in the insulin, do not use it. Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a replacement.

Remember to always check the expiration date on your Novolog Flexpen and discard any pens that have expired. Expired insulin may not provide the desired blood sugar control and can pose potential risks to your health.

By avoiding direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, you can ensure that your Novolog Flexpen remains potent and effective in managing your diabetes. Always follow the recommended storage guidelines to maintain the integrity of the insulin and achieve optimal control over your blood sugar levels.

Tips for Traveling with Novolog Flexpen

Traveling with Novolog Flexpen requires some preparation to ensure that your insulin remains safe and effective throughout your journey. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or any other means of transportation, these tips will help you maintain the potency of your Novolog Flexpen while on the go:

Plan Ahead : Before you embark on your trip, make sure you have enough Novolog Flexpen to last the duration of your travels. Consider the length of your trip, any potential delays, and factor in extra days to account for unexpected circumstances.
Keep It Cool : If you’re traveling by car, avoid leaving your Novolog Flexpen in direct sunlight or inside a hot vehicle. Extreme heat can affect the insulin’s potency. Instead, store it in a cooler bag or insulated pouch to maintain a cooler temperature.
Carry-On Convenience : If you’re flying, pack your Novolog Flexpen in your carry-on bag rather than stowing it in checked luggage. This ensures that you have it with you at all times and reduces the risk of temperature fluctuations in the cargo hold.
Inform Security : If you’re carrying your Novolog Flexpen in your carry-on bag, inform the airport security personnel before going through the security screening. It is recommended to carry a doctor’s note or prescription to explain the need for insulin and medical supplies.
Cool Storage Options : Consider using a travel cooler pack or an insulated travel case specifically designed for insulin storage. These accessories help maintain the desired temperature range for your Novolog Flexpen, especially during long flights or extended periods of travel.
Research Destination Regulations : If you’re traveling internationally, familiarize yourself with the regulations of your destination regarding carrying insulin. Different countries may have specific requirements or limitations on insulin transportation, so it’s important to be aware of any necessary documentation or restrictions.
Medication Accessibility : Ensure that your Novolog Flexpen is easily accessible during your journey. Keep it in a convenient pocket or compartment in your bag, making it readily available for regular injections while on the go. Remember to maintain good hygiene by using hand sanitizer before handling your insulin.
Monitor Temperature : When traveling, be mindful of the temperature conditions in your surroundings. Avoid exposing your Novolog Flexpen to extreme heat or cold. If necessary, use a small thermometer to monitor the temperature of your insulin storage, especially if you suspect the temperature may have fluctuated during your trip.
Check Expiration Dates : Before traveling, check the expiration dates of your Novolog Flexpen supplies. Using expired insulin may not provide the desired blood sugar control and can compromise your health. Discard any pens that have expired, and obtain a fresh supply to ensure optimal diabetes management.

Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific travel plans and medical needs. By following these tips, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your Novolog Flexpen remains effective in managing your diabetes, no matter where your journey takes you.

Checking Expiration Dates

Checking the expiration dates on your Novolog Flexpen is a crucial step in managing your diabetes effectively and ensuring the safety and potency of the insulin. Using expired insulin can impact its effectiveness in controlling blood sugar levels and may pose risks to your health. Here are some important considerations when checking the expiration dates:

Know the Shelf Life : Novolog Flexpen has a specific shelf life determined by the manufacturer. Typically, unopened Novolog Flexpen has a shelf life of approximately 28 days. It is important to check the expiration date printed on the packaging to determine if the insulin is still within its usable period.
Regularly Inspect Your Supply : Make it a habit to regularly inspect your Novolog Flexpen supply, especially if you have multiple pens. Check the expiration date on each pen and organize them accordingly, using the ones that expire sooner before those with later expiration dates.
Proper Storage Etiquette : Proper storage conditions play a significant role in maintaining the integrity and expiration date of your Novolog Flexpen. Store your insulin as instructed by the manufacturer, whether it’s at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and ensure that the storage conditions are within the recommended range.
Discard Expired Pens : Once a Novolog Flexpen has reached its expiration date, it is important to discard it. Expired insulin may not be as effective in controlling blood sugar levels and could potentially lead to unstable glucose management. Properly dispose of the expired pens according to local guidelines or consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
Obtain a Fresh Supply : To ensure that you always have a sufficient and unexpired supply of Novolog Flexpen, make arrangements to obtain a new supply before your current stock runs out. Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist in advance to ensure a seamless transition without interruption in your diabetes management.
Record the Expiration Dates : Keep a record or a log of the expiration dates for your Novolog Flexpen supplies. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you are aware of the longevity of your insulin stock. It can also serve as a helpful reference when planning for travel or refilling your prescription.

Checking the expiration dates on your Novolog Flexpen is a simple but essential part of maintaining your diabetes management. Paying attention to expiration dates, proper storage conditions, and obtaining a fresh supply will help ensure that your insulin remains effective, allowing you to efficiently control your blood sugar levels and live a healthy life with diabetes.

Handling and Disposing of Novolog Flexpen Safely

Proper handling and disposal of Novolog Flexpen are important to ensure the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others. Whether you’re using a new Novolog Flexpen or need to dispose of an empty or expired one, follow these guidelines for safe handling and disposal:

Wash Your Hands : Before handling your Novolog Flexpen, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps reduce the risk of contamination and maintains good hygiene throughout the process.
Follow Injection Instructions : When using Novolog Flexpen for injections, always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Ensure that you are administering the correct dosage and following proper injection techniques to minimize the risk of injury.
Dispose of Sharps Safely : After each injection, it is important to properly dispose of the used needle. Do not recap or bend the needle as it may cause accidental needle stick injuries. Use a sharps container specifically designed for safe disposal of needles, pens, and lancets. When the container is full, seal it and dispose of it according to local regulations.
Dispose of Empty Pens : Once your Novolog Flexpen is empty, it can be safely disposed of in regular household waste. However, before discarding it, make sure to remove the needle and dispose of it in a sharps container as mentioned above.
Properly Dispose of Expired Pens : If you have Novolog Flexpen pens that have expired, it is important to dispose of them properly. Follow local guidelines for medication disposal, which may include returning expired medications to a pharmacy or participating in a medication take-back program.
Avoid Reusing or Sharing : It is crucial to never reuse needles or share Novolog Flexpen pens with others, even if the needles have been changed. Sharing pens can lead to the transmission of diseases and infections.
Store Safely at Home : When storing your Novolog Flexpen at home, keep it out of reach of children and pets. Store the pens in a safe and secure location, away from potential hazards, and follow the storage guidelines discussed earlier in this article.
Consult with Professionals : If you have any questions or concerns about the safe handling or disposal of Novolog Flexpen, consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local health authorities. They can provide guidance specific to your needs and offer any necessary clarification or assistance.

By following these guidelines for safe handling and disposal, you can ensure the proper use of Novolog Flexpen and help protect yourself, others, and the environment. Proper handling and disposal practices are an important part of responsibly managing your diabetes medications.

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Thermal Insulin Pen Carrying Case

VIVI Cap: Insulin Pen Protection

Keeps your insulin at the exact right temperature , even in extreme heat or cold. Proven to be the most effective product for insulin pen temperature protection (published in academic journals). Works with ANY insulin pen . Designed to give you your freedom back .

Works for years 24/7/365
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Protect Your Insulin And Stay Safe

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Protects against heat and cold

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Always Stay in the Safe Zone

Insulin in use that is exposed to temperatures above 86°F or below freezing can be damaged and unsafe. Injecting damaged insulin can result in fluctuating glucose levels and can be life threatening, or cause unpleasant side effects.

Insulin in use that is exposed to temperatures above 30°C or below freezing can be damaged and unsafe. Injecting damaged insulin can result in fluctuating glucose levels and can be life threatening, or cause unpleasant side effects.

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Patented technology developed for space and clinically validated in scientific trials. Keeps insulin stable and safe in all temperatures and climates.

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How it works

Replace original

Remove original insulin pen cap and replace it with the VIVI Cap

Push to click

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Green light for temperature assurance.

You’re good to go! Your insulin is protected 24/7/ 365 for years.

Expert Reviews

TempraMed is Backed by Healthcare Professionals

Dr. Tamborlane

Yale of Pediatric Endocrinology

As a clinician and clinical investigator concerned about better treatments for diabetes, the VIVI Cap is of particular benefit for my patients who require insulin shots, as the vast majority of patients use insulin pens for their daily injections.

Most people don’t realize how fragile insulin is, and how to store it for it to work the most effectively. The VIVI Cap is an incredibly simple solution to ensure that insulin is safe to use and that none of it goes to waste.

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ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year 2020

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Pharmacist, Diabetes Care and Education Specialist

I was so excited to find the VIVI Cap products. Temperature extremes affect Insulin and once that happens, the blood sugar controls get out of hand. I really think it's a life-saving product. Plus, it's all FDA registered and very easy to use.

VIVI Cap Reviews

Works every time

As unlikely as it may seem, this product works as described! I have used it for a while now, and it has never failed to keep the insulin pen below higher temperatures that degrade the insulin.

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The best thing for me!

Whether working out at home, or at the gym, the VIVI CAP is a must have to keep my insulin at a controlled temperature. Don’t leave the house without it!! Highly recommended to anyone who needs to keep their insulin in the car or even in a hot gym locker for hours at a time!

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It Works to keep Insulin Cool and Safe!

This cap works just as advertised. We use it when traveling to keep my son's insulin cool down here in Texas and other areas of the southwest that can get quite 'toasty'. It's nice to store it in our fridge between uses and simply grab it on the go. It's a great alternative to carrying a big insulated bottle with ice sticks... Thank you!

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This really works

This technology actually works to keep the insulin at a safe temperature in my purse, without bulky and melting ice packs. It's convenient and compact. You can put the VIVI cap over a pen needle for even more convenience. They are expensive, yes, but how much will an overheated insulin pen cost you? Highly recommended.

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The VIVI Cap is so easy and simple!

I've lived with type | diabetes for over 20 years, and | worry the most about my insulin when I'm going with my Klas to the beach or the pool, and | nave to pack an old school ice pack In my bag and make sure that It Is always in the shade. It's just tedious.. With VIVI Cap | simply throw it in my bag ana go.. It's so easy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

VIVI Cap uses a unique patented combination of special insulation with “self-regenerating” heat absorbing material and control electronics. Due to the “self-regenerated” heat absorbing material, the device operates for years without requiring any user attention or handling. There are no power requirements, no charging or batteries and no preliminary preparations needed.

VIVI Cap doesn’t have to be placed in the fridge . It automatically absorbs the excess heat, releasing it to the environment when ambient temperature is normal.

VIVI Cap has successfully passed performance tests and the results were published in Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery 2017 Jun;14(6):709-714. VIVI Cap is FDA and CE Registered.

The green light when pushed is your reassurance that your insulin has been safely stored at the correct temperature . The light should stay on for just a few seconds enough time for you to observe the color of the indicator while preserving battery life. This assures that you will be able to use your VIVI Cap for many years to come.

Insulin in use that is exposed to temperatures above 86°F or below freezing can be damaged and spoiled. Damaged insulin is not visible to the naked eye. This can result in fluctuating glucose levels and can be life threatening causing: - Blood glucose fluctuations - Increased insulin dosages - Risk of hypoglycemia

Only 2 oz (60g)! Easily fits in your pocket, purse or bag.

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VIVI Cap: insulin Carrying Case

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The 7 Best Insulin Cooling Cases Available In 2024

Looking for the best insulin cooling case to keep your insulin cool when you need it most? Look no further! We look at the best products available today..

We need insulin to live, simple.

So, it’s very important to ensure that we keep our insulin safe in everyday life.

In certain circumstances, we can put our insulin at risk of dying ; particularly when flying with diabetes supplies .

But thankfully there are ways to counteract this by using insulin cooling cases !

Below I’m going to take you through everything you need to know about insulin cooling cases and about keeping your insulin cold.

What are the different options for keeping insulin cold?

Thankfully we live in a world where innovation is high and that results in a lot of different options when it comes to keeping your insulin cold.

Naturally, the best way to keep our insulin cold is via the fridge, but we don’t always have access to a fridge, especially if we are travelling, out shopping, camping, etc .

So when you don’t have access to a fridge, your next best option is an insulin cooling case!

I’m going to take you through the best insulin cooling cases available on the market today, and show you what my favourite product is for keeping insulin cold.

The best insulin cooling cases available today

1. vivi cap - insulin cooler travel case - keeps diabetes medicine pen safe.

What is the VIVI Cap: Thermal Insulin Pen Carrying Case ?

If you use insulin pens, rather than insulin vials for an insulin pump, then this is the PERFECT product for you.

This innovative product allows you to keep your insulin pen safe whilst on your travels, so it won't overheat or freeze.

Some highlights of the product include:

Works every day for years with no maintenance: This product is an investment into your insulin cooling future. You won't need to replace it, it won't go "moldy", so you can feel confident it will continue to work for you when you need it most.
Built-in temperature sensor with easy to read temperature indicator: This is a very cool feature that will actually let you see the temperature that your insulin is at. This takes away the guessing game, so you can always be sure your insulin is cool when traveling.
Small & lightweight: This product is not going to take up valuable space in a backpack, suitcase or even handbag. It's small enough to fit in your purse, so perfect when you're sightseeing in the city, or heading out for dinner.
No need for water, ice packs, refrigeration or battery charging: a fuss-free product for those with insulin pens!

I am actually in the process of reviewing this product, so I will add even more thoughts soon, but on first impressions, this seems like an excellent product, especially if you're a frequent traveler like myself.

It's perfect for taking your insulin out for the day, say if you're heading to the beach, or even going on a day-hike, day excursion, whatever it may be.

You can pop your insulin in the VIVI Cap and be sure it's going to stay safe!

A great product to add to your diabetes packing list.

Go ahead and buy it here!

Let’s start with the product I actually use.

I’ve been using Frio bags to keep my insulin cool for around 6 years, and I can honestly say, they haven’t failed me yet.

Here is some information about the Frio insulin cooler to help explain what the product is, and what exactly it does.

Frio bags are a unique product which is an evaporation cooling pouch that works by keeping your insulin cold when it’s not in the fridge. It’s simply activated by soaking it in cold water for a predetermined amount of time (it depends on the size of your Frio bag, but instructions are provided)
It keeps your insulin between the temperature of 18-26°C (64.4-78.8°F) for 45 hours minimum, even in a constant environmental temperature of 37.8°C (100°F)
It can be reactivated for subsequent periods of 45 hours minimum for up to 28 days (however I personally have used them much longer than this)
They’re stylish and come in a range of designs and colours
They actually work!

Bottom line: This is my top recommendation for travelling through airport security with diabetes .

3. 4ALLFAMILY 72 Hour Insulin Cooler - Best insulin cooler for road trips

This is another insulin cooling case option that's pretty unique!

The guys at 4AllFamily have sent me one to try out and it's an insulin cooling device that is in the form of a stainless steel cup.

The unique thing is that it looks like a coffee cup, so doesn't look "medical" which is something appreciate.

I hate things that look too medical.

The 4AllFamily 72 Insulin Cooler works in two ways:

1. Firstly there is the Biogel bottle , which you can refrigerate for 6-8 hours in advance then put it in your cooling case along with your insulin and cover it up!

2. If you've got access to electricity, ( even the lighter in your car ) you can put the insulin into your vacuum bottle and cover it with the black cooling cap. You then connect it power with the USB (have it on 30 minutes before you put your insulin in).

This combination of two ways to keep your insulin cool while on the go means it will pretty much keep you covered for all situations . Whether you're road tripping in a car or campervan, backpacking Asia, or even just on holiday!

I think that's really cool!

Can keep your insulin cool up to 72 hours
It's versatile and offers a variety of cooling methods in one product
It can be used with in-car 12V when adapted to a USB so a brilliant option for road trips!
Comes with a 1 year warranty
They only seem to have it in blue (which is nice, but maybe not for everyone)

Pro tip: Use the code THATDIABETICGIRL to get 10% off your purchase!

4. BreezyPacks - My favourite for keeping insulin cold!

BreezyPacks are an awesome company that creates a really unique insulin cooling case.

They work by using a unique chemical absorbs energy when the temperature is hot outside and actively cooling the content of the case (PCM). When the temperature drops, the PCM regenerates by itself.

This basically means can simply pop your insulin inside and it will continuously be protected without a time limit. This is because the case recharges itself every night which I think is really cool!

Quick note, in order to recharge, they need to be at a cooler temperature (24°C/75°F or less) or, if you are short on time then you can put them in the fridge for 1-2 hours.

The product comes in two different forms, the BreezyBasic and BreezyPlus , which are basically the same thing, but differ in the amount of time they can protect your insulin in the heat.

The Basic can protect your insulin on a hot day for up to 6 hours, and the plus for 9!

You can fit 2 insulin pens in both, and probably around 3-4 vials (but I will confirm this when I use my product)

What's also great is that the "plus" model can withstand even extreme climates, surviving entire days in the heat and temperatures of up to 46°C/115°F for shorter durations which is perfect if you're off on an adventure hike, or a day of city sightseeing.

I'll have a full review of the product soon which I'll link to when it's ready, but what I really like from first impressions, is the fact that there is no issues or complications or annoyance with "setting" it up, basically because it doesn't need any.

There's no need to drop it in cold water, like you have to with a Frio bag, or charge it, or even refrigerate it, and that's really cool.

Another great thing is they deliver worldwide which is useful!

I think this looks like a great placed product for day trips with diabetes, trips to the beach, camping trips, hiking adventures, or city breaks.

They're also creating a larger version coming out this fall, which will be able to hold even more insulin which will be a great solution for longer holiday trips AND backpacking adventures.

Buy your BreezyPack TODAY!

4. Poucho by Medicool - Great for keeping insulin cold during power outages

This is another cooling wallet available from a different company known as Medicare.

This insulin cooling case appears to work in a similar way to Frio bags, however, I’ve not personally used one.

Here are the important facts about Poucho :

It’s easily activated by placing in cold water
They can stay cool for up to 4 days
There are two different colours and 6 different sizes to suit insulin pens and insulin vials
Great for keeping insulin cold during power outages (which is something you often forget to consider!)

5. Eono by Amazon - great cooler for day trips

Eono is a new product developed by Amazon and it works in a similar way to the other insulin cooling products I’ve mentioned. However, it uses ice-packs rather than a smart in-built cooling system.

There are some advantages too it, including the fact it’s available on prime, and cheaper.

But let’s see how it compares in terms of ability:

The insulin carrying case has the ability to hold 4 ice cooling packs and a variety of insulin pens and vials
Before use you will need to put 2 or 4 cold gel and freezer to shape for 6-8 hours
The frozen ice pack could ensure the inside temperature at 2-8 degrees around 6-8 hours and keep it at the same condition for about 3-4days under 20 degrees
I would say this cool bag for insulin would be more suitable for day trips rather than long extended trips

6. Lekesky - Another great option for shorter trips

This product is another insulin cooling case that makes use of ice packs.

This means I would personally recommend Lekesky for shorter travel days and trips, and generally less stressful situations . Here are the facts:

Keep insulin at 2-8℃ for 6-8 hours. Keep insulin at 25℃ for 48-72 hours
You need to freeze two cooling tablets in the freezer for 6-10 hours beforehand and the insulated panels help keep them cooler for longer periods
It comes with a unique and innovative Temperature Indicator which means the temperature of the insulin can be seen directly without using a thermometer
There is a 1 year warranty with the product for satisfaction

BONUS: Medangel One Sensor - Fantastic tool for all bags

MedAngel is not a specific insulin cooling travel case, rather it’s an innovative piece of technology that allows you to track the temperature of your insulin in different situations.

It can even make sure your insulin cooling case is working properly as you can pop the Medangel One Sensor into the case and monitor the temperature.

The Medangel one sensor can also be placed in your fridge to ensure the temperature is correct and remove the risk of your insulin freezing.

The sensor is synced up to an app on your phone via Bluetooth and it will give you alarms as to when your insulin is too warm and too cold.

It’s a really great product to have when travelling, especially if you’re giving your insulin to a hotel fridge, or basically any fridge you don’t typically use.

It’s also a worthwhile investment because you only need to replace the battery when it runs low.

Or get 20% off when you purchase direct on the website (shipping restrictions apply) with the code:

DREAMBIGTRAVELFAR20

Why do we need to keep insulin cold?

Insulin is a live product that keeps us alive, and in order for it to function well we need to keep it at a certain temperature.

If our insulin is exposed to extreme heat or cold, and fluctuates between these two temperatures, then it can destroy the insulin which will make it no longer suitable for use.

Before you look at ways to keep your insulin cold, you actually need to consider whether it needs to be kept “cold”.

What I mean by this is that if you’re taking your insulin away for a day and you aren’t expecting any crazy temperatures, then your insulin will be completely fine in your diabetic supply bag or purse, whichever you use, rather than an insulin cool pouch.

But, if you’re visiting somewhere very cold, or warm, then it’s best to take extra precautions with an insulin cooling case to help ensure your insulin stays safe.

Insulin can react adversely in cold temperatures. It can easily freeze when exposed to temperatures that it isn’t suitable for.

I once put my insulin in a hotel fridge (or what they told me was a fridge) and it froze my insulin, solid. You cannot use it after it defrosts.

The insulin is dead and needs to be disposed of.

Insulin can also react in warm temperatures. The heat can cause insulin to go cloudy or form clumps, and these are both indications that your insulin has died from exposure to the heat and it should again be disposed of.

What temperature should insulin be unopened?

For unopened insulin, which is still in the box, and hasn’t been used yet, the ideal place for your insulin is in the refrigerator at a temperature of around 2-8 degrees C [ 36-46° F]. If refrigeration is not possible, it can be kept at room temperature [15-25 degrees C] for 28 days.

What temperature should insulin be after opening?

For insulin that’s already been opened and that you are currently using the ideal temperature is 56°F and 80°F (13-26 degrees C).

And the insulin cooling cases we will discuss below will help you ensure your insulin stays at this temperature range.

Other things to do note about insulin temperatures

Insulin is supposed to have a 28 day expiration date, for in-use insulin. However, I honestly do believe this is just a guideline.

Because I travel around the world with the same bottles of insulin for up to 4 months at a time, and my insulin has never, ever expired.

So, I would simply use your insulin and if you find your blood sugars aren’t in range, or you don’t feel like it’s working well, then you will know it has expired.

It’s also recommended that in-use insulin should be kept at room temperature, and NOT in the fridge, but again, I keep my in-use insulin in the fridge and have yet to have any problems.

This is a statement from the insulin company I currently use:

Eli Lilly – Manufacturers of synthetic insulin's – ‘human’ and analogues.

"Our Humulin range has regulatory approval for in-use out of the fridge for 28 days. We have also performed our own in-house studies, however these were also completed after 28 days. Therefore, we do not have any data on in-use of Humulin vials after 28 days and thus, although we have no information to suggest that there is any problem with in-use vials stored in the fridge after 28 days, without data to support this we currently can only recommend in-use for 28 days."

Remember that insulin has an expiry date which is different from the 28 day use date.

Don’t use expired insulin.

Some insulin's last longer than others, you should check with your doctor, or the insulin manufacturer themselves to find out how long your insulin is supposed to last.

Choosing the best insulin cooling case for you

As I mentioned above, the only product I’ve used consistently is the Frio insulin cooling case and I also use the Medangel One Sensor , which has proved useful when I’ve been travelling.

It’s saved my insulin a few times now which is great!

So if I had to choose one product out of them all to choose, then it would naturally be a Frio bag ! But that’s not to say that I won’t try other products in the future, but for now, the Frio bags have never let me down, so I don’t need to change products just yet.

Before I found these products, I used to simply find a picnic bag and put some ice blocks inside them.

I did this when I took a trip around South America, and it was honestly the most awkward and worst thing I could have done.

I had to carry a bulky bag with me, which was unnecessary, and every day I had to keep re-cooling these massive ice blocks.

Thankfully, when I did some proper research, I found these great products instead. And now that there is lots of choice on the market, you’ll definitely be able to find something to suit your insulin cooling needs and if you're looking for a diabetic friendly gift , these insulin cooling cases are always a good choice!

So there you have it!

My guide to the best insulin cooling cases available on the market today to help keep your insulin cool.

If you’ve got any other products to recommend, then definitely pop them below so we can recommend them to others too.

Have you used any of these insulin cooling cases before? How did you find them? Let me know below!

Check out some other useful posts:

Miao Miao Sensor Review: And a $10 coupon code!
Dexcom VS Freestyle Libre: A comparison ‍
Sick day rules and Diabetes: A guide

Living with type 1 diabetes for over 10 years has given me a lot of life experience, challenges and opportunities. I’ve had ups and downs, but I’m proud that I can live out my dreams whilst managing t1d. I hope my stories can help your daily life with diabetes too!

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Storage and travel with Tresiba ®

Storing Tresiba ® FlexTouch ® and vial

It’s important to store your insulin correctly so that it remains safe and effective., tresiba ® storage before use.

Store unused Tresiba ® FlexTouch ® pens and vials in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)

Do not freeze Tresiba ® . Do not use Tresiba ® if it has been frozen

If kept in the refrigerator, unopened pens and vials may be used until the expiration date printed on the label

Tresiba ® storage after use

Keep at room temperature (up to 86°F) or refrigerated for up to 8 weeks

Keep away from direct heat and light

Dispose after 8 weeks, even if there is insulin left in the pen or vial and the expiration date has not passed

The Tresiba ® FlexTouch ® pen lasts up to 8 weeks once in use if it is refrigerated or kept at room temperature up to 86°F and away from direct heat and light.

Safe Disposal

It's important to immediately dispose of your needles and syringes in a sharps disposal container. You should also dispose of pens or vials that are empty or lack a usable quantity through a drug-collection program or by placing them in an appropriate container according to local laws.

You can order a free sharps or medicine container from Novo Nordisk and we’ll take care of safely disposing the container for you.

Travel Tips

Tresiba ® FlexTouch ® pens can go almost anywhere because you can keep them in your pocket, purse, or bag.

Make sure to keep your Tresiba ® in your carry-on luggage when traveling. Insulin should never be placed in checked luggage because of the extreme temperatures it may be exposed to.

Going someplace warm?

Remember to keep Tresiba ® out of direct sunlight and at room temperature (up to 86°F) once in use.

Changing time zones?

While we encourage you to take Tresiba ® the same time every day, sometimes your schedule may change or you may forget to take your dose. If you’re changing time zones, just make sure to leave at least 8 hours between doses.

Be Prepared With a Travel Checklist

Tresiba ® flextouch ® or vial, pen needles or syringes, blood glucose meter, test strips, lancing device and lancets, alcohol swabs, glucose tabs, glucagon kit, other diabetes medicines.

What is Tresiba ® (insulin degludec) injection 100 U/mL, 200 U/mL?

What is Tresiba ® ?

Prescription Tresiba ® is a long-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 1 year of age and older with diabetes
Tresiba ® is not for people with diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine)
It is not known if Tresiba ® is safe and effective in children under 1 year of age
Tresiba ® is available in 2 concentrations: 200 units/mL and 100 units/mL

Tresiba ® Important Safety Information

Do not share your Tresiba ® FlexTouch ® with other people, even if the needle has been changed. Do not share needles or syringes with another person. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.

Who should not take Tresiba ® ?

Do not take Tresiba ® if you:

are having an episode of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
have an allergy to Tresiba ® or any of the ingredients in Tresiba ®

Before taking Tresiba ® , tell your health care provider about all your medical conditions, including if you are:

pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
taking new prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements

Talk to your health care provider about low blood sugar and how to manage it.

How should I take Tresiba ® ?

Read the Instructions for Use and take Tresiba ® exactly as your health care provider tells you to
Do not do any conversion of your dose. The dose counter always shows the selected dose in units
Know the type and strength of insulin you take. Do not change the type of insulin you take unless your health care provider tells you to
Take your dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing schedule
Make sure there are at least 8 hours between doses
Call the healthcare provider for information and instructions about checking blood sugar levels more often until the next scheduled dose of Tresiba ®
For children who need less than 5 units of Tresiba ® each day, use a Tresiba ® U-100 vial
Check your blood sugar levels. Ask your health care provider what your blood sugar levels should be and when you should check them
Do not reuse or share your needles or syringes with other people. You may give them a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them
Never inject Tresiba ® into a vein or muscle
Never use a syringe to remove Tresiba ® from the FlexTouch ® pen
Tresiba ® can be injected under the skin (subcutaneously) of your upper legs (thighs), upper arms, or stomach area (abdomen).
Do not use the exact same spot for each injection.
Do not inject where the skin has pits, is thickened, or has lumps.
Do not inject where the skin is tender, bruised, scaly or hard, or into scars or damaged skin.

What should I avoid while taking Tresiba ® ?

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery, until you know how Tresiba ® affects you
Do not drink alcohol or use prescription or over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol

What are the possible side effects of Tresiba ® ?

Tresiba ® may cause serious side effects that can be life-threatening, including:

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Signs and symptoms that may indicate low blood sugar include dizziness, light-headedness, sweating, confusion, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, shakiness, fast heart beat, anxiety, irritability, mood changes, and hunger.
Low potassium in your blood (hypokalemia)
Heart failure in some people if taken with thiazolidinediones (TZDs). This can happen even if you have never had heart failure or heart problems. If you already have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Tresiba ® . Tell your health care provider if you have any new or worse symptoms of heart failure including shortness of breath, tiredness, swelling of your ankles or feet, and sudden weight gain

Your insulin dose may need to change because of change in level of physical activity or exercise, increased stress, change in diet, weight gain or loss, or illness.

Common side effects may include serious allergic reactions (whole body reactions), reactions at the injection site, skin thickening or pits at the injection site (lipodystrophy), itching, rash, swelling of your hands and feet, and weight gain.

Get emergency medical help if you have trouble breathing, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, sweating, extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion.

Please see Prescribing Information for Tresiba ® .

Tresiba ® is a prescription medication.

Find help with insulin costs at Novocare.com/letushelp .

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

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About Novo Nordisk

Fiasp ® , FlexTouch ® , Levemir ® , NovoCare ® , NovoFine ® , NovoLog ® , NovoLog ® Mix 70/30, Tresiba ® , and Xultophy ® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S.

Novo Nordisk is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.

All other trademarks, registered or unregistered, are the property of their respective owners.

Ozempic ® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg

RYBELSUS ® (semaglutide) tablets 7 mg or 14 mg

Victoza ® (liraglutide) injection 1.2 mg or 1.8 mg

Xultophy ® 100/3.6 (insulin degludec and liraglutide) injection 100 U/mL and 3.6 mg/mL

Fiasp ® (insulin aspart) injection 100 U/mL

GlucaGen ® HypoKit ® (glucagon) for injection 1 mg/mL

Levemir ® (insulin detemir) injection 100 U/mL

NovoLog ® (insulin aspart) injection 100 U/mL

NovoLog ® Mix 70/30 (insulin aspart protamine and insulin aspart) injectable suspension 100 U/mL

Tresiba ® (insulin degludec) injection 100 U/mL, 200 U/mL

ZEGALOGUE ® (dasiglucagon) injection 0.6 mg/ 0.6 mL

Levemir ® FlexPen ® Quick Guide

This one-page guide contains step-by-step, patient-friendly instructions for using the Levemir ® FlexPen ®

We've created additional resources to address your questions.

Indications and Usage for Levemir ® (insulin detemir) injection 100 U/mL

Levemir ® (insulin detemir) injection 100 U/mL is indicated to improve glycemic control in adult and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.

Limitations of Use

Levemir ® is not recommended for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Important Safety Information

Contraindications.

Levemir ® is contraindicated during episodes of hypoglycemia and in patients hypersensitive to insulin detemir or any of the excipients in Levemir ® . Reactions have included anaphylaxis.

Warnings and Precautions

Never Share a Levemir ® FlexPen ® prefilled pen, Needle, or Syringe Between Patients: Levemir ® FlexPen ® prefilled pens must never be shared between patients, even if the needle is changed. Patients using Levemir ® vials should never share needles or syringes with another person. Sharing poses a risk for transmission of blood-borne pathogens.
Hyperglycemia or Hypoglycemia with Changes in Insulin Regimen: Changes in an insulin regimen (e.g., insulin strength, manufacturer, type, or injection site or method of administration) may affect glycemic control and predispose to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Repeated insulin injections into areas of lipodystrophy or localized cutaneous amyloidosis have been reported to result in hyperglycemia; and a sudden change in the injection site (to an unaffected area) has been reported to result in hypoglycemia. Make any changes to a patient’s insulin regimen under close medical supervision with increased frequency of blood glucose monitoring. Advise patients who have repeatedly injected into areas of lipodystrophy or localized cutaneous amyloidosis to change the injection site to unaffected areas and closely monitor for hypoglycemia. Adjustments in concomitant anti-diabetic treatment may be needed.
Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse reaction of insulin, including Levemir ® . Severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures, may be life-threatening or cause death. Hypoglycemia can impair concentration ability and reaction time; this may place the patient and others at risk in situations where these abilities are important (e.g., driving or operating other machinery). Hypoglycemia can happen suddenly and symptoms may differ in each patient and change over time in the same patient. Symptomatic awareness of hypoglycemia may be less pronounced in patients with longstanding diabetes, in patients with diabetic neuropathy, using drugs that block the sympathetic nervous system (e.g., beta-blockers), or who experience recurrent hypoglycemia. Risk Factors for Hypoglycemia: The risk of hypoglycemia generally increases with intensity of glycemic control. The risk of hypoglycemia after an injection is related to the duration of action of the insulin and, in general, is highest when the glucose lowering effect of the insulin is maximal. As with all insulins, the glucose lowering effect time course of Levemir ® may vary among different patients or at different times in the same patient and depends on many conditions, including the area of injection as well as the injection site blood supply and temperature. Other factors which may increase the risk of hypoglycemia include changes in meal pattern, changes in level of physical activity, or changes to concomitant drugs. When a GLP-1 receptor agonist is used in combination with Levemir ® , the Levemir ® dose may need to be lowered or more conservatively titrated to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment may be at higher risk of hypoglycemia. Patients and caregivers must be educated to recognize and manage hypoglycemia. In patients at higher risk for hypoglycemia and patients who have reduced symptomatic awareness of hypoglycemia, increased frequency of blood glucose monitoring is recommended.
Hypoglycemia Due to Medication Errors: Accidental mix-ups between insulin products have been reported. To avoid medication errors between Levemir ® and other insulins, instruct patients to always check the insulin label before each injection.
Hypersensitivity and Allergic Reactions: Severe, life-threatening, generalized allergy, including anaphylaxis, can occur with insulin, including Levemir ® . If hypersensitivity reactions occur, discontinue Levemir ® ; treat per standard of care and monitor until symptoms and signs resolve.
Hypokalemia: All insulins, including Levemir ® , cause a shift in potassium from the extracellular to intracellular space, possibly leading to hypokalemia. Untreated hypokalemia may cause respiratory paralysis, ventricular arrhythmia, and death. Monitor potassium levels in patients at risk for hypokalemia if indicated (e.g., patients using potassium-lowering medications, patients taking medications sensitive to serum potassium concentrations).
Fluid Retention and Heart Failure with Concomitant Use of PPAR-gamma Agonists: Thiazolidinediones (TZDs), which are peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma agonists, can cause dose-related fluid retention, particularly when used in combination with insulin. Fluid retention may lead to or exacerbate heart failure. Patients treated with insulin, including Levemir ® , and a PPAR-gamma agonist should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure. If heart failure develops, it should be managed according to current standards of care, and discontinuation or dose reduction of the PPAR-gamma agonist must be considered.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions associated with Levemir ® include hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, injection site reactions, lipodystrophy, rash, and pruritus.

Drug Interactions

Drugs that may increase the risk of hypoglycemia: antidiabetic agents, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blocking agents, disopyramide, fibrates, fluoxetine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, pentoxifylline, pramlintide, salicylates, somatostatin analog (e.g., octreotide), sulfonamide antibiotics, GLP-1 receptor agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, and SGLT-2 inhibitors
Drugs that may decrease the blood glucose lowering effect: atypical antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine and clozapine), corticosteroids, danazol, diuretics, estrogens, glucagon, isoniazid, niacin, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, progestogens (e.g., in oral contraceptives), protease inhibitors, somatropin, sympathomimetic agents (e.g., albuterol, epinephrine, terbutaline), and thyroid hormones
Drugs that may increase or decrease the blood glucose lowering effect: alcohol, beta-blockers, clonidine, lithium salts, and pentamidine
Drugs that may blunt the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia: beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine, and reserpine

Use in Specific Populations

Clinical Considerations - Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk: Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia-related morbidity.

Please click here for Levemir ® Prescribing Information.

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For over a decade, FlexPen ®  has helped millions of patients with diabetes worldwide to inject their insulin.  See what FlexPen ® can offer you.

® and KwikPen ® ')">

® \r\n\r\nTrusted to repeatedly deliver an accurate dose')">

1. FlexPen ® is pre-filled with insulin or GLP-1 so you don't have to load it

2. The pen is colour-coded for easy identification

3. Doses are provided in one unit increments for insulin medicines and in fixed doses for GLP-1

4. The dose-setting mechanism does not allow for a dose larger than that remaining in the pen to be administered

Correct a dose by simply dialling back or forth
The dosing scale automatically returns to zero after your injection

NovoLog FlexPen

Generic name: insulin aspart [ IN-su-lin-AS-part ] Brand names: Fiasp , NovoLOG , NovoLOG FlexPen, NovoLOG PenFill Drug class: Insulin

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 27, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum .

What is NovoLog FlexPen?

Insulin is a hormone that works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. NovoLog FlexPen is a fast-acting insulin that starts to work about 15 minutes after injection, peaks in about 1 hour, and keeps working for 2 to 4 hours.

NovoLog FlexPen is used to improve blood sugar control in adults and children with diabetes mellitus . NovoLog FlexPen is sometimes used together with a long-acting or intermediate-acting insulin.

NovoLog FlexPen may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

NovoLog FlexPen side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of insulin allergy: redness or swelling where an injection was given, itchy skin rash over the entire body, trouble breathing, fast heartbeats, feeling like you might pass out, or swelling in your tongue or throat.

NovoLog FlexPen may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

heart problems--swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath; or

low potassium --leg cramps, constipation , irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.

Common side effects of NovoLog FlexPen may include:

low blood sugar ;

weight gain;

low potassium;

swelling in your hands and feet;

skin rash, itching, redness, or swelling; or

thickening or hollowing of the skin where you injected the medicine.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Never share an injection pen, cartridge, or syringe with another person, even if the needle has been changed.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use NovoLog FlexPen if you are allergic to it, or if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

NovoLog FlexPen is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old, and should not be used to treat type 2 diabetes in a child of any age. Fiasp is for use only in adults.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

liver or kidney disease; or

low levels of potassium in your blood ( hypokalemia ).

Tell your doctor if you also take pioglitazone or rosiglitazone (sometimes contained in combinations with glimepiride or metformin ). Taking certain oral diabetes medicines while you are using insulin may increase your risk of serious heart problems.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Follow your doctor's instructions about using insulin if you are pregnant or you become pregnant. Controlling diabetes is very important during pregnancy, and having high blood sugar may cause complications in both the mother and the baby.

How should I use NovoLog FlexPen?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

NovoLog FlexPen is injected under the skin, or as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

Your healthcare provider will show you where on your body to inject NovoLog FlexPen. Use a different place each time you give an injection. Do not inject into the same place two times in a row.

Do not inject NovoLog FlexPen into skin that is damaged, tender, bruised, pitted, thickened, scaly, or has a scar or hard lump.

After using Novolog, you should eat a meal within 5 to 10 minutes. Fiasp should be given at the start of a meal or within 20 minutes after starting a meal.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. This medicine should be clear and colorless. Do not use the medicine if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

If you use an injection pen, use only the pen provided with your medicine. If you use this medicine with an insulin pump, do not mix or dilute NovoLog FlexPen with any other insulin. Change the medicine in the reservoir at least every 6 days.

Never share an injection pen, cartridge, or syringe with another person, even if the needle has been changed. Sharing these devices can allow infections or disease to pass from one person to another.

You may have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and feel very hungry, dizzy, irritable, confused, anxious, or shaky. To quickly treat hypoglycemia, eat or drink a fast-acting source of sugar (fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, or non-diet soda).

Your doctor may prescribe a glucagon injection kit in case you have severe hypoglycemia. Be sure your family or close friends know how to give you this injection in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of high blood sugar ( hyperglycemia ) such as increased thirst or urination.

Blood sugar levels can be affected by stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol use, or skipping meals. Ask your doctor before changing your dose or medication schedule.

NovoLog FlexPen is only part of a treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, blood sugar testing, and special medical care. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Keep this medicine in its original container protected from heat and light. Do not draw insulin from a vial into a syringe until you are ready to give an injection. Do not freeze insulin or store it near the cooling element in a refrigerator. Throw away any insulin that has been frozen.

Storing unopened (not in use) NovoLog FlexPen:

Refrigerate and use until expiration date ; or

Store at room temperature and use within 28 days.

Storing opened (in use) NovoLog FlexPen:

Store the vial in a refrigerator or at room temperature and use within 28 days.

Store the cartridge or injection pen at room temperature (do not refrigerate) and use within 28 days. Do not store the injection pen with a needle attached.

Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

In case of emergency, wear or carry medical identification to let others know you have diabetes.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since NovoLog FlexPen is used before meals, you may not be on a timed dosing schedule. Whenever you use NovoLog FlexPen, be sure to eat a meal within 5 to 10 minutes. Do not use extra this medicine to make up a missed dose.

Keep insulin on hand at all times. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Insulin overdose can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia. Symptoms include drowsiness , confusion, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in your mouth, trouble speaking, muscle weakness, clumsy or jerky movements, seizure (convulsions), or loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while using NovoLog FlexPen?

Insulin can cause low blood sugar. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how NovoLog FlexPen will affect you.

Avoid medication errors by always checking the medicine label before injecting your insulin.

Avoid drinking alcohol or using medicines that contain alcohol. Alcohol can cause low blood sugar and may interfere with your diabetes treatment.

What other drugs will affect NovoLog FlexPen?

Insulin may not work as well when you use other medicines at the same time. Some drugs can also cause you to have fewer symptoms of hypoglycemia, making it harder to tell when your blood sugar is low. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products . Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all medicines you start or stop using.

Popular FAQ

Injecting insulin is not difficult, but it does take a bit of practice. There are three main sites where insulin can be injected: the stomach area except for a 2-inch circle around your navel, and the soft part of your waist, but not anywhere near your spine; the top and outer part of your thighs, but not your inner thighs or anywhere close to your knee; the outer back of your upper arm where there is a pocket of fatty tissue. Continue reading

Humalog vs Novolog (Novalog): What's the difference?
What is the difference between Fiasp and NovoLog?
What are the ingredient drugs in Ryzodeg 70/30?

View more FAQ

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Insulin Aspart monograph
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Related treatment guides.

Diabetes, Type 1
Diabetes, Type 2
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Nonketotic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Mounjaro , metformin , Trulicity , Lantus , Tresiba , Victoza , Humalog , Levemir , Basaglar , Novolog

Pill medicine is NovoLog FlexPen U-100 (100 units/mL) FlexPen

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Russian Visa Guide

Visa-free travel to Russia

Several countries now have bilateral agreements in place with the Russian Federation to allow visa-free travel to Russia for their citizens. Unfortunately, however, there is no indication that similar agreements will be reached with the EU, the US, or the UK any time soon.

If you are not a citizen of one of the countries below and do not hold a diplomatic passport, the only other way to visit the Russian Federation without a visa is on a cruise ship to St. Petersburg. This exemption allows you to stay in the city for up to 72 hours without a visa on the condition that you are sleeping on the ship and are accompanied at all times by a licensed tour guide. If your cruise calls in St. Petersburg for 48 or 72 hours, there are companies offering shore tours which include a day in Moscow.

The same visa-free regime is applied to passengers on ferries from Helsinki and Tallinn operated by the company St. Peter Line, although in the case of ferry passengers you need to book your own accommodation. Again, it is possible within the 72 hours to visit Moscow as well. You can find out more about visa-free tours to Moscow and St. Petersburg here .

Nationalities which can travel to Russia without visas are divided into four groups with different requirements and different limitations on length of stay for each group. Even if you do not need a visa to enter Russia, you will certainly need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your proposed exit from Russia, and you may require other official documents. You will also, like all foreign travelers in Russia, still need to register with the Federal Migration Service upon arrival.

Citizens of the countries of the CIS (the Commonwealth of Independent States) are permitted to stay in the Russian Federation for up to 90 days without a visa.

Citizens of these countries are allowed to stay in the Russian Federation without a visa for up to 90 days in each 180-day period, provided they will not be involved in any commercial or work-related activities during their stay.

Citizens of the countries in this group can stay in the Russian Federation for up to 30 days without a visa. They are not entitled to work while in Russia.

Citizens of these Balkan countries can also stay in Russia without a visa for up to 30 days, but must also show tourist documents (tourist confirmation and tourist voucher) or an official invitation to immigration officials.

Off the Unbeaten Track Edward Adrian-Vallance's travel site

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Overland Travel

View when driving from Yelisovo airport to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

The first myth I want to disprove is that getting to Kamchatka is extremely costly. It’s not. Going between February and April, a return flight from Moscow can be had for 11,000 roubles (US$380 / £220). Not bad for 18 hours total flying time. In summer the flights are more expensive but still, if you book them a few months in advance, can be got for 16,000 roubles return.

It’s true, many people will tell you that March and April are the worst months to visit because the snow is starting to melt and everything’s a bit sloshy and dirty in settlements. On the other hand, these are great months for the independent traveller! During winter zimniki (temporary winter roads made of compacted snow or simply frozen river surfaces) open up all over Kamchatka, granting access to communities that in summer are totally isolated. Hitch hiking is possible right from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the very north of the peninsula. Alternatively, vehicles can be hired in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from tour firms. Also in the winter or early spring months places can be reached that are away even from the zimniki, either by snowmobile or by the use of cross country skis. For example, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Eurasia’s largest active volcano, can be accessed from the village of Klyuchi without the need even for a guide by a traveller with a pair of cross country skis. Bears do not wake up until mid-April so this is not a danger, but bears almost never attack anyone anyway.

The main disadvantages of winter travel in Kamchatka are that it is cold, there is no greenery and there are no bears, which some people come here especially to see.

The second myth I’d like to dispel is that travel around the peninsula requires hiring a helicopter. As mentioned above, in winter you can get almost anywhere by hitch hiking. I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.

Throughout the year there are fairly expensive public helicopter flights to all settlements which are nevertheless much cheaper than hiring your own helicopter. There is also one permanent, year-round dirt road leading halfway up the peninsula. Some distance after the town of Milkovo, about 350km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , it forks. The right fork leads to Klyuchi , site of Eurasia’s largest active volcano, and further to the port town of Ust-Kamchatsk. The left fork leads to the indigenous Even villages of Anavgay and Esso. Daily buses go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Klyuchi , Anavgay and Esso, costing about 1000 roubles each way. In winter a zimnik passable by lorries heads north from Anavgay 36 hours to the otherwise isolated town of Palana. From Palana more zimniki head further north to yet more isolated settlements. From the peninsula’s very northernmost settlements there are even EXTREMELY irregular snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle connections with Magadan Oblast and Chukotka. Another zimnik, only passable by all-terrain vehicle, heads from Anavgay to the village of Ust-Khayryuzovo on Kamchatka’s west coast.

Kamchatka’s Indigenous
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky