Short answer: Keep unopened NovoLog in the fridge at 36-46°F (2-8°C) until the expiration date, or at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for 28 days. Once in use, vials last 28 days in the fridge or at room temperature; FlexPen, FlexTouch and PenFill cartridges last 28 days and are not refrigerated. Never use NovoLog that froze. Source: NovoLog label, section 16.2.
Section 16.2: “Store unused NOVOLOG in a refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze NOVOLOG and do not use NOVOLOG if it has been frozen. Do not expose NOVOLOG to excessive heat or light. Do not withdraw NOVOLOG into a syringe and store for later use.”
| Form | Unopened, refrigerated | Unopened, room temp (up to 86°F) | In use (up to 86°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mL vial | Until expiration date | 28 days | 28 days, refrigerated or room temperature |
| 3 mL PenFill cartridge | Until expiration date | 28 days | 28 days (do not refrigerate) |
| 3 mL FlexPen | Until expiration date | 28 days | 28 days (do not refrigerate) |
| 3 mL FlexTouch | Until expiration date | 28 days | 28 days (do not refrigerate) |
For a missed dose, see missed a NovoLog dose.
Frozen: do not use it (section 16.2). Warm: room-temperature storage stops at 86°F (30°C), and the label says not to expose NovoLog to excessive heat. Ask your pharmacist about insulin that went outside these limits. See also left out of the fridge.
An in-use NovoLog pen travels at room temperature for the rest of its 28 days, up to 86°F (30°C). Unopened spares should stay cold, or they start their own 28-day room-temperature limit.
More in the travel guide.