Question about insulin

[Barb & Checkers (GA)]

When it's storming and a power failure is threatening, (within a couple of hours of shot time) would it be okay to fill syringe and leave it out, for a couple of hours?
That way, the fridge would not have to be opened, while there is no power. The rest of the insulin can stay cold.
Should I post this in the Health forum?

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

I would cross post on Health - mostly because I'm curious what people would say.

From the use and handling of Lantus sticky there's a link to an article on handling and a section on pre-filling syringes:

Aventis Pharmaceuticals does not recommend prefilling syringes with Lantus and storing for any period longer than needed for application. In addition BD states the following (9): “BD does not recommend that any of our syringes be prefilled more than a few minutes in advance of the injection. There are no conclusive studies to determine the safety or risks associated with this practice.”

 

[Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)]

Hi Barb, From what I understand, the inside of the syringe has a coating to make the injection smoother. If you prefill a syringe you might risk contaminating the insulin if it remains in contact with the coating for a long time. Have you considered having a bunch of freezer blocks in your freezer and simply putting the insulin (well wrapped) into a cooler with a few blocks? The ones in the freezer would remain pretty cold, and when the ones in the cooler lose their coldness, you could simply put in a couple of colder ones.
Then there are those mini refrigerators that plug into your car's cigarette lighter or that can be run off of a small generator. How long do power outages usually last in your area??

Stu is so happy to see Checkers again. He missed him. Glad he could come to "Camp Stu".

Ella