Tips to help patients get the most from their insulin

The following information should be shared with patients to optimize their insulin therapy:

• Take your insulin at the same time each day (unless the patient is on basal-bolus insulin, in which case the insulin is given before meals, whatever time they are eaten).
• Take your insulin when you do other routine activities (e.g., eat meals, get ready for bed).
• Unopened insulin can be safely stored in the refrigerator until the expiration date.
• Opened vials of insulin can be safely stored at room temperature (less than 30 °C [86 °F]) for 28 to 30 days. If insulin freezes or is exposed to temperatures above 30 °C [86 °F]), it becomes completely ineffective and must be discarded.
• Insulin pen cartridges have different expiration dates depending on the brand and type of insulin. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Syringes can be safely re-used if handled appropriately: Avoid touching the needle and replace the cap over the needle; move the plunger up and down to help prevent clogs; and do not wipe the needle with alcohol, as this removes the silicone coating. Smaller-gauge needles have fewer re-uses than larger-gauge needles before becoming painful.
• Provide information regarding appropriate needle disposal for the patient's community based on local regulations.

From the ACP Diabetes Care Guide.