Managing Insulin in an Emergency or Power Outage

Being ready for natural disasters and other emergencies matters for everyone — and especially for people with diabetes. Here is how to store and use insulin when normal routines break down.

When the power is out and there's no refrigerator

• Keep insulin cool, but don't let it freeze. Frozen insulin can break down and won't work as well.
• Keep it away from direct heat and sunlight, which also make it less effective.
• If you must use insulin that's been stored above 86°F, check your blood sugar regularly. If you're in an emergency shelter, tell someone in charge if your blood sugar runs too high or too low, and contact your doctor as soon as the emergency is over.

Emergency diabetes help

• Health care providers who need diabetes supplies: call 1-314-INSULIN (314-467-8546), Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern.
• People in areas hit by storms: call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2382), Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern.

Switching insulin

In an emergency your usual insulin may not be available, and you may need a different brand or type.

• Work with your doctor on any switch if you can. If that isn't possible, follow the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's emergency guidance on insulin storage and switching between products.
• If you use an insulin pump, you may be able to substitute another insulin. Check your pump's instructions for which types work; the FDA guidance also explains which injectable insulin to use if you have to switch from your pump.
• Either way, watch your blood sugar closely and get medical care as soon as you can.

Getting back to normal

Once you're back in your routine, throw away insulin that was stored at room temperature or at very high or low temperatures. See your doctor if you have questions about managing your diabetes or any other health concerns.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Managing Insulin in an Emergency"; a work of the United States government in the public domain.