Can interferon still be used if it was forgotten to be put back in the refrigerator?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Whether interferon can still be used after being forgotten in the refrigerator depends on the duration it was left at room temperature and the condition of the medication. If it was exposed to room temperature for a short period and shows no abnormalities, it may still be used. However, if it was left out for an extended period or shows signs of deterioration, it must not be used. Interferon should routinely be stored strictly according to cold storage requirements; avoid leaving it at room temperature unnecessarily. After use, return it to the refrigerator promptly to minimize exposure to room temperature.
Whether interferon can still be used after being left out of the refrigerator depends on the duration it was stored at room temperature and the condition of the medication. It may be used if it was only exposed for a short time and shows no abnormalities; however, it must not be used if it has been stored at room temperature for an extended period or shows signs of deterioration. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If the room temperature does not exceed 25°C, the storage duration is within 24 hours, and the medication appears unchanged with no precipitation or cloudiness and the bottle cap remains securely sealed, it can generally be used. In such cases, brief exposure to room temperature does not significantly degrade the active ingredients and will not affect therapeutic efficacy.
If the room temperature is high or the storage time exceeds 24 hours, or if there are signs of deterioration such as color change, precipitation, loose caps, or leakage, the medication must not be used. At this point, the active ingredients may have degraded, rendering the drug ineffective and potentially causing local irritation or other adverse effects due to chemical changes.
Routine storage of interferon must strictly follow refrigeration requirements—avoid leaving it unattended at room temperature. Return it to the refrigerator promptly after use to minimize exposure. Store in a tightly sealed container, away from moisture and direct sunlight, and regularly check the expiration date and physical appearance of the medication.
