Risks of Using a Stored Syringe of Juvederm?

Question

I have a syringe of Juvederm that my doc used for a touch-up last May 2008. It is nearly full, and I want to use the remainder. Is there any risk to this? The expiration date is on September 2009, and I have kept the syringe at room temperature with its cap on, in a biohazard bag.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Here are 3 separate studies showing the safety of re-injecting unused filler in the same patient. The science says it is safe...at least within 6 months of injection.Bellew SG, Carroll KC, Weiss MA, Weiss RA. Sterility of stored nonanimal, stabilized hyaluronic acid gel syringes after patient injection. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2005;52:988–90.Davis K, Bottone EJ, Lucas D, Lebwohl M. Sterility of refrigerated injectable collagen syringes after injection of patient. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1992;27:959–61. Culligan PJ, Koduri S, Heit MH, Rackley R, Thomson RB, Schwabe L, et al. The safety of reusing injectable collagen: A multicenter microbiological study. Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2002;13:232–4.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

I do not save any residual fillers as there is a risk of infection during storage once its been opened. Especially since you have kept it at room temperature, more bacteria might have grown. Delayed infections can occur after the placement of your product. Do not use your product.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Jilbean,
Personally I won't inject a patient with something that has not been kept in my office.  If the syringe was kept here, then I would consider using it.
The risk of possible contamination with resulting infection is not worth taking the chance of injecting fillers that have not been properly stored in a physicians office.
Be well.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I do not store used filler syringes.  There is a risk of cross contamination if accidentally injected into someone else, and the product may be contaminated after being stored.

Bryan K. Chen, MD · Answer

My policy is not to store filler material for my patients at the office because of the potential risk of infection and of mixing up patient samples.  The fact that your syringe of material has been sitting around for nearly 1 year at room temperature makes it that much more of an infection risk.  I would strongly advise against it.
Good luck.

Risks of Using a Stored Syringe of Juvederm?

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Risks of Using a Stored Syringe of Juvederm?

Answers (10)

Answer: Stored filler syringes

Answer: Stored filler syringes

Answer: Stored syringe of Juvederm

Answer: Stored syringe of Juvederm

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Everything you need to know about Juvederm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.