HC Deb 07 April 1987 vol 114 c206W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what arrangements and facilities are made available to diabetic patients to enable them to store their insulin in an efficient manner; if he will make a statement on the problems faced by low income patients in maintaining the insulin in good order; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Currie

No special arrangements are necessary for storage. The shelf life of insulin at room temperature is one month. It may be stored for longer periods if kept refrigerated. Patients who keep insulin at room temperature may need to make arrangements with their doctor or pharmacist for smaller and more frequent supplies. Diabetics are exempt from prescription charges.