FAQ For Frio Products

How does it work?

After immersing the wallet in cold water for the appropriate length of time (included with each wallet in enclosed directions), the crystals that are contained in the panels expand into a gel.  Once the crystals turn into the gel substance the evaporation process begins.  This occurs when air reacts with the gel creating the cooling effect.  Due to the gel reacting to air, it is vital that the wallet must be in contact with air, to enable it to breathe and must not be placed in any air tight container/bag.
 

How long does it last?

Once the wallets have been immersed in water for the correct amount of time, they will have the ability to keep insulin cool for a period of a minimum 45 hours (based on a constant environmental temperature of 38.8° C (102° F).
 

What is its average life span?

The wallet can last anywhere from 12-18 months minimum depending on how well it is cared for.  In some cases, the wallet has lasted for much longer.  As long as the crystals expand to a gel when immersed in water the wallets will keep medication cool.  As wallets age then it will take longer to activate.
 

How to clean it?

The outer cover of the wallet can be washed at 30° C (86° F) using a mild detergent.  The inner wallet can be cleaned by using a nail brush and dipping only the nail brush into slightly soapy water (not the wallet), then scrub the (dry) wallet with the brush.  You can then rinse the wallet under the tap without damaging the crystals inside (do not place into a washing machine).
 

Do I need a waterproof liner?

A waterproof liner is optional. Waterproof liners are recommended for anyone who is using anything electronic, such as the pump and Innolet injector and meters, etc. to prevent any moisture effecting them.  It can also be used for eye drop wallets to help prevent any labels coming off the bottles, if required.  The manufacturers of Byetta also suggest that moisture stay off of their pens, so, Byetta users may benefit from the waterproof liners as well.
If you have questions about whether or not you need a liner, please let us know.  We will be happy to assist you.
 

What temperature does the wallet maintain?

Insulin will begin to degrade at 30° C/ 86° F

The wallets keep insulin cool between 18-26°C (64 -79° F) depending on the climate which the wallet is exposed to.  For example, if the wallet was in a constant climate temperature of 38.8° C (100° F), then the wallet will keep the insulin cool at 26°C (79° F) for a minimum of 45 hours.
 

Can it be used for other medication?

Yes, the FRÍO® wallets can hold other medications, but it is advised that you ask your GP or the medications manufacturer before doing so, as further tests other than insulin have not been undertaken at this stage.
 

Why does it smell?

The smell may be due to the wallet being stored away whilst it is still active (in an air-tight situation).  The crystals have not completely returned to their original condition.  This will create a smell like all damp clothes and may eventually cause mould.  If this occurs, refer to the cleaning and drying out process.
 

My bag is still swollen after 1-2 weeks?

The wallet will not start the evaporation process unless the external temperature is over 18° C (65° F), then the process starts.

The hotter the climate, the quicker the evaporation process.  For example, if the wallet is exposed to a constant (day and night) temperature of 38.8° C (102° F) it would dry out completely after 45 hours.  So, based on this information, if the environmental temperature was a lot less the wallet will stay active for a much longer period.
 

My bag feels sticky on the outside?

If the wallet is sticky, this means that at some stage the wallet has been over-soaked, causing the gel to force its way through the material.  If this happens, you can, once dried out, pinch off the excess gel bits.  Do not spread over the wallet by wiping off, because this will just spread the gel further.
 

My wallet is not swelling like it should?

The older the wallet, the longer it takes for the crystals in the panels of the wallets to absorb the water.  In some cases, it can take up to an hour (couple of years old).  If the wallet does not swell at all, this means that the crystals are not working any longer and it is time to purchase a new one.  Generally speaking, if looked after correctly, the life of the crystals is approximately 2 years, but many customers have had satisfactory use for several more years.
 

I can't get anything inside my wallet? Over-soaking?

The crystals are capable of absorbing 500 times their volume of water, therefore time restrictions are important because otherwise the wallet may become over soaked and will have to be dried out until the items needed can fit into it!  Patience is needed in this instance.

The standard drying out procedure consists of placing the wallet on a low heat radiator or window sill, turning and shaking regularly to prevent the crystals congealing together.

DO not put into a tumble dryer.
 

My wallet does not work, it does not keep cool?

If the wallet has been immersed in water for the recommended time and has swollen into a gel form, then the wallet is functioning properly.  As long as the wallet is not enclosed in an air tight bag, the evaporation process can start (the wallets need air to breathe).  The wallet does not keep medication as cold as a fridge, this is not how it is designed, but it does keep the insulin at a safe temperature for an extended period of time (Insulin degrades at 30° C/86° F).

Clinical tests were carried out by companies specializing in this field, in a constant external environment temperature of 38.8°C (102 °F).  These tests proved the medication remained at 26°C (79° F) for a period of 45 hours.  Insulin will degrade when it reaches 30°C (86° F), therefore a FRÍO® will keep insulin below the temperature at which it could degrade.