Tips on How to Travel With GLP-1 Medications

Spring and summer are right around the corner and many people are planning their next vacation. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need to stay healthy while on the road. If you are taking a GLP-1 you should not be skipping your medication when you are out of town or on vacation. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some essential tips and precautions for traveling with GLP-1 medications.

 

What are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) medications are used to primarily treat type 2 diabetes but have been widely used to aid in weight loss along with diet and exercise. These medicines work in different ways by helping your body make more insulin, reducing the amount of sugar your liver makes, reducing appetite, and slowing down the digestion of food. Depending on what specific medication your provider prescribes, these medications come as injections or tablets you ingest orally. 

 

Does my medication need to be refrigerated?

Most people think GLP-1 medication needs to be refrigerated at all times. Mounjaro can actually last up to 21 days unrefrigerated. You just want to make sure that the temperature does not get any higher than 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, keep the pen in its original cart to prevent the pen from light. Consult with your doctor to find out how long your specific medication can go unrefrigerated.

If you are taking a road trip, store your medication in an insulated bag, using cooling packs if you are traveling in warmer weather. When using cooling packs in your insulated bag, position them carefully to avoid direct contact with the medication. This will prevent the medication from freezing, which can be as harmful as overheating. 

If you have the compounded tirzepatide or semaglutide GLP-1, this medication can also be stored at room temperature, the refrigerator, or frozen.  Be sure to review the recommendations provided by the pharmacy for storage of your medication.  You can take this medication with you while traveling at room temperature.  

 

Can I travel on a plane with my medication?

Many people do not take their medication with them when flying because they believe the TSA will not allow them to travel with syringes. You are allowed to travel with personal medications, including semaglutide or tirzepatide, on planes. Make sure to keep your medication in its original packaging and bring a copy of your prescription. When traveling with any medicine, it’s vital to keep it in your hand or carry-on luggage and not your checked bags. This reduces the risk of medication getting lost, and also ensures it’s kept in a temperature-controlled environment. You can read more on TSA guidelines from their site here.

 

What happens if I skip my medication while on vacation?

While the idea of taking a break from regular medication during vacation might be tempting, it’s generally not advisable. Pausing GLP-1 medications can lead to the return of symptoms they’re prescribed to manage. Before pausing any medication, you should consult with your provider. There are ways to stop taking GLP-1 medicines safely, but these typically are used when weaning off the medicine completely instead of for short-term breaks.

 

What if I am in a different timezone on vacation?

When traveling to a place that is a different timezone than back home it usually does not make a difference if you take your medication a few hours before or after you usually do. Aim to take your medication the same day of the week. When on vacation it can be hard to remember to take your medication so a great tip is setting a reminder on your phone to help you remember.

 

Traveling with your GLP-1 Medication does not have to be a hassle! With some preparation, you can enjoy your vacation while still staying on track with your medications. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. If you are interested in taking GLP-1 for weight loss, make a consultation with one of our weight loss specialists by clicking here.

 

 

 

Sources: https://mounjaro.lilly.com/how-to-use-mounjaro#how-to-use

https://www.qyral.com/blogs/news/how-to-travel-with-glp-1-medications

https://ipscompounding.com/top-tips-for-traveling-with-medication/