PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)Order Entry and ProcessingEasy
A pharmacy technician receives a prescription for 'Lantus Solostar 100 units/mL, Inject 25 units SC QHS, Dispense #5 pens'. Which of the following auxiliary labels is MOST critical to apply?
- ATake with food
- BRefrigerate. Do Not Freeze.
- CFor external use only
- DMay cause drowsiness
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Refrigerate. Do Not Freeze.
Insulin products like Lantus Solostar pens require refrigeration to maintain their potency and stability until opened. Once opened, they can typically be kept at room temperature for a limited time.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect. Insulin is injected and its absorption is not directly affected by food intake in the same way oral medications are.
- C. Incorrect. Insulin is for subcutaneous injection, not external topical use.
- D. Incorrect. Insulin does not typically cause drowsiness.
Insulin Storage Requirements
Insulin products must be stored correctly to maintain potency and safety, primarily requiring refrigeration before use.
- Unopened insulin: Refrigerate (2°C-8°C / 36°F-46°F).
- Opened insulin: Room temperature (15°C-30°C / 59°F-86°F) for a limited time (e.g., 28 days), depending on the product.
- Do not freeze insulin.
- Protect from light and extreme temperatures.
Memory trick: Cool insulin, or it's useless.