Insulin thermostability in a real-world setting

Various forms of diabetes care necessitate exogenous insulin replacement. Administered insulin must have predictable potency to avoid potentially dangerous glycaemic excursions. However, insulin is temperature sensitive, with potency reduced through rising temperatures.1–3 Insulin manufacturers and regulatory agencies direct that insulin be refrigerated (at 4–6°C), never frozen, and with a maximum usage or storage period of approximately 1 month at standard room temperatures (20–25°C).3 This requirement is especially challenging in hot climate settings if home refrigeration is unavailable, which is the case for some 770 million people.