How to Travel With Your GLP-1 Medication

Traveling with injectable medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound requires some planning. Temperature control, TSA regulations, and timing across time zones all need consideration. Here's your complete guide to stress-free travel with GLP-1 medications.

TSA Rules for Injectable Medications

Good news: TSA allows injectable medications and supplies in carry-on bags. What you can bring: • Injectable medications in any quantity • Syringes and needles (when accompanied by medication) • Pen injector devices • Cooling packs or gel packs • Sharps disposal containers No prescription label is technically required, but having one can speed up screening. Keep medications in original packaging when possible.

Declare your medications to TSA officers at the security checkpoint. They can be screened separately if you prefer to avoid X-ray exposure.

Temperature and Storage Requirements

GLP-1 medications have specific storage needs: Before first use: • Ozempic: Refrigerate (36-46°F) • Wegovy: Refrigerate (36-46°F) • Mounjaro: Refrigerate (36-46°F) • Zepbound: Refrigerate (36-46°F) After first use: Most pens can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F) for limited periods: • Ozempic: 56 days • Wegovy: 28 days • Mounjaro: 21 days • Zepbound: 21 days Never freeze, and protect from extreme heat.

Never put injectable medications in checked luggage—temperature extremes in cargo holds can damage them.

Keeping Medications Cool

Options for temperature control during travel:

Insulated medication travel cases - Available in various sizes with cooling packs
FRIO cooling wallets - Reusable, activated with water, no refrigeration needed
Hotel mini-fridges - Call ahead to confirm availability
Ice packs in insulated bags - Avoid direct contact between ice and medication
Cooler bags - For longer trips or hot climates

Timing Your Doses Across Time Zones

Weekly injections make time zone changes manageable: Short trips (3-5 hours difference): Take your injection at your usual time according to your destination's time zone. The flexibility of weekly dosing makes this easy. Long trips (major time zone changes): • You can shift your injection day by a day or two if needed • Maintain consistent weekly intervals • Don't stress about exact timing—GLP-1 medications are forgiving Example: If you usually inject on Sunday and travel from New York to Tokyo (14 hours ahead), you can inject on Saturday or Monday of that week to accommodate the change.

Packing Checklist

Don't forget these items: • Medication in original packaging • Extra pen/doses if possible (in case of travel delays) • Alcohol swabs • Cooling case or pack • Sharps container • Copy of prescription (digital backup too) • Letter from your doctor (for international travel) • Insurance card with pharmacy information • Contact info for your prescribing provider

International Travel Considerations

Additional planning for international trips: Documentation: Some countries may ask for proof that medications are prescribed. Carry a letter from your doctor stating your medical need. Language barriers: Know the generic name (semaglutide or tirzepatide), not just brand names, which may differ internationally. Medication availability: If you need a refill abroad, research availability in your destination. Some countries may not have the same medications or may require different prescriptions. Customs: Declare medications when entering countries. Quantities should be consistent with personal use for your trip duration.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

If your medication is lost, damaged, or exposed to temperature extremes: Contact your pharmacy: Many can arrange early refills or transfers for travel emergencies. Contact your provider: Telehealth makes reaching your prescriber easier than ever. Check manufacturer resources: Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have patient support lines that may help with emergencies. Assess the damage: If medication was exposed to heat but not extreme conditions, it may still be usable. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer.

The Bottom Line

Traveling with GLP-1 medications is very manageable with basic preparation. Keep medications in carry-on bags, maintain proper temperature, and bring documentation. The weekly dosing schedule of these medications makes time zone adjustments simple, and TSA is accustomed to travelers with injectable medications. With a little planning, your GLP-1 therapy shouldn't limit your travel plans.

Sources & References

TSA - Traveling with Medication
Novo Nordisk - Patient Resources
Eli Lilly - Patient Resources