While unpacking today's shipment, a pharmacy technician notices that a vial of Apidra arrived frozen.

Apidra (insulin glulisine)is arapid-acting insulinthat must bestored between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C)in the refrigerator. If frozen,it is no longer usableand shouldnever be thawed or dispensed. The best course of action is toreturn it to the distributorto ensure medication integrity and patient safety.

A. Thawed and stored in a refrigerator→ Incorrect;frozen insulin loses its potencyand shouldnot be used.

B. Sent to the prescriber→ Incorrect; the prescriber does not handle medication storage or replacements.

C. Dispensed to a patient→ Incorrect;frozen insulin is ineffectiveand could harm the patient.

Other Answer Choices Explained:References:

FDA Insulin Storage and Handling Guidelines

USP <797> Sterile Preparations – Storage Conditions

Manufacturer Storage Requirements for Apidra (Sanofi-Aventis)