How Long Do GLP-1 Medications Actually Last? Complete Shelf Life Guide
Every GLP-1 formulation has different storage requirements and shelf life. This guide sources the manufacturer and pharmacy data so you know exactly how long your medication lasts — and what kills it.
Brand-name injectable (unopened, refrigerated): Up to 24 months
Brand-name injectable (after first use): 28-56 days
Compounded injectable (unopened, refrigerated): 30-90 days (BUD)
Compounded injectable (after puncture): ~28 days
Oral Wegovy tablets: Until expiration date, no refrigeration needed
Brand-Name Injectable Shelf Life
| Product | Unopened (Refrigerated) | After First Use | Room Temp Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic (semaglutide) | Until expiration (~24 mo) | 56 days | 59-86°F |
| Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) | Until expiration | 28 days at room temp | 59-86°F |
| Wegovy HD (semaglutide 7.2mg) | Until expiration | Single-use pen | Per label |
| Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide) | Until expiration | 21 days at room temp | Up to 86°F |
Compounded Injectable Shelf Life
Compounded semaglutide doesn't carry a manufacturer expiration date. Instead, compounding pharmacies assign a Beyond-Use Date (BUD) — the last day the medication is considered safe and effective.1
- Unopened vials (refrigerated): Typically 30-90 days from compounding date2
- After first puncture: Generally 28 days3
- Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder: Several months before reconstitution; 28 days after mixing4
Oral Wegovy Tablets
Oral semaglutide (Wegovy pill, Rybelsus) stores at room temperature in its original bottle. No refrigeration needed. Follow the expiration date on the packaging. Do not transfer to pill organizers — the tablets are sensitive to moisture.5
What Destroys GLP-1 Medications
- Freezing: Destroys the peptide structure permanently. If any GLP-1 injectable has been frozen, discard it — even if thawed.6
- Heat: Temperatures above 86°F accelerate degradation. Don't leave medication in a hot car, near a window, or on a bathroom counter.
- Light: UV exposure breaks down peptides. Store in original packaging or a shaded area of the refrigerator.
- Shaking: Semaglutide is a delicate peptide. Vigorous shaking causes denaturation. Roll gently if mixing is needed.
Key point: You cannot tell if a GLP-1 medication has degraded just by looking at it. Potency loss happens before visible changes. If your medication has been stored improperly, discard it — don't gamble on reduced efficacy.
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Storage Best Practices
- Keep refrigerated at 36-46°F (2-8°C) until use
- Never freeze — discard if frozen even briefly
- Mark the date you first puncture a compounded vial — discard after 28 days
- Store in original packaging to protect from light
- When traveling, use an insulated pouch with cold packs (not directly touching medication)
- Oral tablets: room temperature, original bottle, away from moisture
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The Source Summary
Brand-name injectables last up to 24 months unopened; compounded versions have a 30-90 day Beyond-Use Date. After opening, all injectables have a limited window (28-56 days depending on product). Oral Wegovy doesn't need refrigeration. Never freeze any GLP-1 injectable. When in doubt, discard and get a fresh supply.
Sources
- USP Chapter 797. Beyond-Use Dating for sterile compounded preparations.
- NiceRx. "How Long Does Compounded Semaglutide Last?" 30-90 days BUD, March 2026.
- Hers. "How Long Does Compounded Semaglutide Last in the Fridge?" 28 days after opening.
- IvyRx. "Compounded Semaglutide Expiration." Lyophilized stability data.
- FDA prescribing information, Rybelsus (oral semaglutide). Room temperature storage.
- Ro. "What Happens If You Use Expired Semaglutide?" Freezing destroys peptide structure.