How to Travel with GLP-1 Medications: An Expert’s Guide

Understanding Storage Requirements

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GLP-1 medications generally require refrigeration, but they have some flexibility, especially when it comes to short-term travel:

• Ozempic®: Can be kept unrefrigerated for up to 56 days if the temperature stays between 59 - 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
• Wegovy®: Can be kept unrefrigerated for up to 28 days under the same temperature conditions.
• Mounjaro®/Zepbound®: Can be kept unrefrigerated for up to 21 days under the same temperature conditions.
• Compounded semaglutide/tirzepatide: in most cases, these medications should be kept refrigerated. Depending on the pharmacy, the medication may be stable for up to 72 hours at room temperature though they should be kept refrigerated as much as possible.

Traveling with Branded Medications

1. Short Trips: For branded medications, you can travel without ice packs as long as your medication pens are used within storage requirements (i.e. 21 days for Mounjaro® and Zepbound®). Always be mindful of the temperature conditions at your destination.
2. Hot Destinations: If you're traveling to a place where the temperature is above 86°F, you must use ice packs to protect the medication from heat.

Traveling with Compounded Medications

Compounded medications often have different stability profiles and handling requirements:

1. Short Trips (10 Days or Less): If your trip is usually 10 days or shorter, consider gradually adjusting your dosing schedule 1-2 days at a time leading up to your trip. Taking your medication on the day you travel and then upon return can be a hassle-free solution. For patients with diabetes or complex medical histories, first discuss with your Shapely provider whether this approach is safe.
2. Longer Trips (11 Days or More): For trips longer than 10 days, it's advisable to travel with your medication. Use a gel pack and place the vial inside an insulated bag to keep it cool.

Packing and TSA Guidelines

The FAA/TSA allows you to travel with medications, but there are some important tips to keep in mind:

1. Declare at Security: Inform the security officers that you are carrying medication. It's helpful to have a label from the pharmacy indicating the prescription and dosing instructions.
2. Gel Packs: You can travel with gel packs as long as they are frozen. This helps keep your medication cool during the journey.
3. Carry-On: Always carry your medication in your carry-on luggage to ensure it remains within a controlled temperature range and to avoid the risk of loss or damage in checked baggage.
4. Avoid Freezing: Ensure that your medication does not freeze, as this can affect its efficacy.

Insulated Bags and Syringe Cases

Especially when traveling with compounded medications, invest in an insulated bag or container designed for medications, such as those used for insulin. Below are two of our favorite recommendations that are readily available on Amazon:

• MOSLA Insulin Cooler: this inexpensive insulin cooler comes with ice packs and can keep your medication cool for about 4-8 hours
• Nomad 48H Insulin Cooler: while more costly, this insulated insulin cooler can keep your medication cool for up to 52 hours. This can be helpful especially if traveling internationally or to remote locations.

Many of our patients prefer prefilling insulin syringes with compounded medication and using a device like the GMS Syringe Case for protection. Though there's a theoretical risk of contamination, studies show that with proper sterile technique, medications remains sterile for up to one month (Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2278263/)

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At Your Destination

Once you reach your destination, store your medication in a refrigerator to maintain its stability and effectiveness. If a refrigerator is not available, continue using your insulated bag with ice packs as necessary.

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Final Tips for Traveling with GLP-1 Medications

• Plan Ahead: Consider the length of your trip and the temperature of your destination to decide the best way to store and transport your medication.
• Stay Informed: Know the specific storage requirements and stability information for your particular medication.
• Be Prepared: Pack all necessary items, including gel packs, insulated bags, and prescription labels, to make your travel as smooth as possible.

With the right preparation and tools, you can travel confidently and ensure your GLP-1 medication remains effective throughout your journey. Happy travels!

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