Semaglutide, a widely used GLP-1 receptor agonist, has gained popularity for its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and supporting weight loss. But just like any medication, semaglutide has a shelf life—and ignoring its expiration date can have consequences. So, what happens if you use expired semaglutide? Is it dangerous? Is there a window where it’s still okay? This guide will break down everything you need to know, from potential health risks to proper storage practices and common questions.
Does Semaglutide Expire
Yes, semaglutide does expire. Whether it’s a commercially manufactured or compounded version, every semaglutide formulation comes with a labeled expiration date. This date ensures the medication maintains its intended potency and safety when stored under recommended conditions.
The expiration date isn’t a suggestion—it’s a boundary set by pharmaceutical science, based on how long the medication remains stable under controlled conditions. Ignoring that boundary could reduce effectiveness and pose safety concerns.
When Does Semaglutide Expire?
Semaglutide expiration depends on the specific formulation, packaging, and storage. Most unopened vials or pens of semaglutide are good for months, sometimes even up to a year, if refrigerated at the correct temperature range (typically 36°F to 46°F or 2°C to 8°C). However, once opened, its effective lifespan shortens significantly.
Compounded semaglutide, in particular, often has a shorter shelf life due to its unique preparation. Always check with your pharmacy or provider for the specific semaglutide expiration date listed on your prescription.
Can Semaglutide Go Bad?
Absolutely. Like many biologically active drugs, semaglutide can go bad over time. Exposure to heat, light, or contamination can hasten this process—even if the product hasn’t technically expired yet.
Changes in color, clarity, or the presence of floating particles can indicate that your semaglutide has deteriorated. Using degraded or compromised medication can result in unexpected reactions or a complete lack of therapeutic benefit.
What Happens If You Take Expired Semaglutide?
Here’s where things get risky. Using expired semaglutide, whether by accident or choice, can have multiple consequences:
1. Loss of Effectiveness
The active compounds in semaglutide may lose potency after the expiration date. This means the medication may no longer regulate blood glucose levels effectively or support appetite control. For someone relying on semaglutide as part of a medical plan, this loss of function can delay progress or worsen symptoms.
2. Chemical Instability
Over time, the molecular structure of semaglutide may degrade. This can cause the medication to behave unpredictably in your body. Degraded compounds might interact differently with your system, leading to unintended effects or simply providing no benefit at all.
3. Immunogenic Reactions
Semaglutide is a peptide-based drug, meaning it’s more sensitive to structural changes. If the peptides clump or alter, they might trigger immune responses such as rashes, inflammation, or more severe allergic reactions.
4. Contamination Risk
Expired semaglutide, especially in liquid or injectable forms, carries a heightened risk of bacterial or fungal contamination. If sterility is compromised, injecting such medication could lead to infections or abscesses at the injection site.
5. Injection Site Complications
Using compromised semaglutide can lead to localized skin issues, including redness, swelling, or irritation. These side effects may worsen if the drug has gone bad or been stored improperly.
Can You Use Expired Semaglutide?
Technically, yes—you can. But should you? Experts and medical guidelines strongly advise against it.
The risks of using expired semaglutide outweigh any perceived benefits. The medication may have lost potency, been contaminated, or undergone chemical changes that alter its effect. If you’re unsure about a dose, err on the side of caution and consult your healthcare provider.
Using Expired Semaglutide: Why It’s Not Worth the Risk
From a clinical standpoint, expired medications have not been evaluated beyond their designated lifespan. Even if they appear fine, they may not be safe or effective. Given the sensitivity of semaglutide formulations, especially compounded versions, the risk of deterioration is even higher.
The better choice? Dispose of expired semaglutide properly and request a refill from your healthcare provider or a trusted supplier like longevityhealthplans, which ensures timely delivery of fresh, refrigerated doses.
Does Compounded Semaglutide Expire Faster?
Yes. Compounded semaglutide, prepared by specialty pharmacies, generally has a shorter expiration window than mass-manufactured alternatives. These formulations often come with a 30- to 90-day expiration period and must be kept refrigerated.
Because compounded versions may lack the stabilizers found in commercial options, they are more vulnerable to heat, light, and degradation. This makes it crucial to use compounded semaglutide before its expiration and follow proper storage instructions.
Semaglutide Shelf Life: What to Know
The shelf life of semaglutide varies by format:
Unopened pens or vials: Typically last 6–12 months refrigerated.
Opened pens: Often usable for 4–8 weeks, depending on brand and instructions.
Compounded formulations: Lasts 30–90 days depending on preparation.
Always check the label, keep semaglutide in the fridge, and avoid freezing or exposing it to room temperatures for prolonged periods.
How Long Is a Vial of Semaglutide Good For?
Once opened, most vials are viable for 28 to 56 days, assuming they’re stored correctly. If you’re unsure about a vial’s status, consult your pharmacy or longevityhealthplans customer support team for guidance.
FAQs: Semaglutide Expiration and Safety
What happens if you inject expired semaglutide?
Injecting expired semaglutide could result in reduced therapeutic effects, unexpected immune responses, or even infections if the formulation has degraded or become contaminated.
How long does semaglutide last before it expires?
Unopened, refrigerated semaglutide can last up to a year. Once opened, it’s typically safe for 4–8 weeks depending on storage and whether it’s compounded or not.
What happens if I use expired semaglutide?
You may experience a lack of efficacy, unexpected side effects, or adverse reactions. It’s always best to avoid expired medication.
Is it safe to use expired Wegovy?
Wegovy, like any semaglutide product, should not be used after its expiration. Safety and potency aren’t guaranteed past the expiration date.
Can semaglutide go bad?
Yes, semaglutide can go bad due to temperature exposure, time, and contamination, even if the expiration date hasn’t yet passed.
Does expired Wegovy still work?
It may work less effectively or not at all, and might pose safety concerns due to possible degradation of ingredients.
Does semaglutide lose effectiveness over time?
Yes, especially after the expiration date. Chemical stability weakens, and potency decreases, making the drug less reliable.
What is the shelf life of compounded semaglutide?
Typically 30–90 days. Check with your compounding pharmacy for specifics and always store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use semaglutide after the expiration date if it looks fine?
Even if it appears fine, expired semaglutide may have lost potency or become unsafe. It’s best to dispose of it and use a new dose.
How do I properly dispose of expired semaglutide?
Do not flush semaglutide. Return it to your pharmacy’s take-back program or follow local medical waste disposal guidelines.
Final Thoughts: Stick to Safe, In-Date Medication
Expired semaglutide is a risk not worth taking. Whether you’re managing blood sugar, supporting weight goals, or both, you need a product that works—reliably and safely. Don’t gamble on expired doses. Stay consistent with your treatment plan by checking dates, storing your medication properly, and sourcing it from reputable providers like longevityhealthplans.
Using semaglutide responsibly is essential to achieving your health goals. That starts with honoring its expiration date—and recognizing that your health is always worth the extra caution.
