Planning a trip while taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound requires some extra preparation. These injectable medications need proper storage and handling to remain effective. Here's your comprehensive guide to traveling safely with your weight loss medication.
Key Points to Remember
- • GLP-1 medications need refrigeration (36-46°F / 2-8°C) until first use
- • Once in use, they can be kept at room temperature for limited time
- • Never freeze your medication
- • Always carry medication in your carry-on, never checked baggage
- • TSA allows injectable medications with proper documentation
Air Travel Tips
TSA and Security
Injectable medications are exempt from the 3.4-ounce liquid rule. You can bring your pen, needles, and any necessary supplies through security. Declare your medication at the checkpoint for smoother screening.
Documentation to Carry
- • Prescription label on original packaging
- • Letter from your doctor (especially for international travel)
- • Pharmacy receipt showing your name
- • Copy of prescription if traveling long-term
Carry-On Only
Never put your medication in checked luggage. The cargo hold can reach temperatures that damage or freeze your medication. Plus, if your luggage is lost, so is your medication.
Keeping Your Medication Cool
Cooling Options
- Insulated medication travel cases — Products like FRIO wallets use evaporative cooling without ice or electricity. They stay cool for 45+ hours.
- Small insulated bags with ice packs — Wrap the pen in a cloth to prevent direct contact with ice.
- Hotel mini-fridge — Request a room with a mini-fridge. Don't store medication in the door (temperature fluctuates).
Temperature Guidelines
Ozempic/Wegovy (semaglutide):
- • Refrigerated: up to expiration date
- • Room temp (59-86°F): 56 days maximum
Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide):
- • Refrigerated: up to expiration date
- • Room temp (up to 86°F): 21 days maximum
International Travel Considerations
- Check destination country's rules on importing medications
- Carry a doctor's letter in English and the local language if possible
- Know your medication's generic name (semaglutide, tirzepatide)
- Research if your medication is available at your destination (in emergencies)
- Consider travel insurance that covers medication loss
- Account for time zone changes in your injection schedule
Managing Your Injection Schedule
Time Zones
GLP-1 medications are once-weekly, so minor timing adjustments are usually fine. Try to stay within 2 days of your usual schedule. If crossing many time zones, stick to your home schedule for the first week, then gradually adjust.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss your dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it's within 2 days of your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Never double up doses.
Packing Checklist
- ☐ Medication pen(s) with enough doses for trip + extras
- ☐ Needles (if applicable)
- ☐ Alcohol swabs
- ☐ Sharps container or thick plastic container for used needles
- ☐ Insulated case or cooling bag
- ☐ Ice packs (gel packs preferred)
- ☐ Original prescription packaging/box
- ☐ Doctor's letter
- ☐ Pharmacy receipt
- ☐ Copy of prescription
- ☐ Insurance card and emergency contact numbers
What to Do If Medication Gets Too Warm or Freezes
If your medication was exposed to temperatures outside the recommended range, do not use it. Contact your pharmacy or healthcare provider. The medication may have lost effectiveness even if it looks normal. It's better to miss a dose than inject compromised medication.
Official Summary
With proper planning, you can travel anywhere while taking GLP-1 medications. The keys are: keep it cool (not frozen), carry it with you, bring documentation, and pack extra supplies. Don't let medication management stop you from enjoying your travels—just plan ahead.