Some medicines have special storage conditions and are classed as ‘fridge items’ which must be stored at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C; a common fridge item is insulin. Your pharmacist will add these items to your deliveries last and there will be a procedure in place for storage during transit, such as using a portable fridge or cool box for short journeys.

Although fridge items require special storage, you should also consider the storage of other medicines whilst in transit as they must be stored in a cool, dry place. Extremes of temperature can commonly occur in vehicles which could potentially affect the medicines and the way they work. For example an item may freeze in winter or spoil if left in a hot vehicle for too long. Monitor your vehicle temperature and take appropriate action. Should you have any concerns about the effect a high or low temperature could have on a medicine, consult your pharmacist.

It is very important to keep your delivery vehicle clean in the same way the dispensary is always kept clean because this prevents any microorganisms e.g. bacteria spoiling medications.