Travelling with GLP-1/GIP medications
GLP-1/GIP medications play an important role in the treatment for obesity management. Travelling with medication can feel , but with the right on how to plan, store, transport and manage your GLP-1/GIP medications it will help you to feel more prepared and at ease.
Discuss your travel plans with your healthcare team
Before you travel, it is best to let your healthcare team know about your travel plans. You can discuss any concerns you may have, especially if you are travelling internationally. If you will be away for an extended period, confirm with your doctor how you will access your medication. It is important to note that if you have insurance, it may not cover your medication while abroad. If you are travelling to a different time zone, discuss how this may impact your dosing schedule. Also, you may need to ask your doctor for a travel letter to provide for the security check.
Travelling by plane
When travelling by plane, store your medication in a cooler bag or insulated container to keep the medication within the recommended temperature range. Don’t store your medication in direct contact with a freezer pack to avoid freezing the medication. Be sure to check Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) regulation regarding ice or gel packs. Always keep your medication with you in your carry-on in an area that is easy to access. You may want to bring documentation such as your prescription and a travel letter from your doctor. If possible, keep your medication in the original box with your prescription sticker. At security, inform the CATSA screening officer that you have medication with you. You may need to have your medication and needles screened separately. Always refer to the latest CATSA guidelines before travelling.
Travelling by car
When travelling by car, it is best to carry your medication in a cooler bag or insulated container with ice packs to keep the medication cool. Don’t place medication in direct contact with ice packs to avoid freezing the medication. It is best to keep any unopened medication refrigerated. Avoid leaving your medication in a hot environment and away from direct sunlight. Always store medication in a cool and dry environment. For ease of access, you can store all your medical supplies in a designated bag. Always double check the storage guidelines for your medication as listed in the instructions or refer to the medication website.
Storage guidelines for GLP-1/GIP medications
Any unopened medication should always be stored in the fridge between 2-8 degrees Celsius. When opened, you have the option to keep the medication at room temperature, below 30 degrees Celsius. If your medication has been frozen or exposed to temperatures higher than 30°, it is recommended to dispose of the medication. Below is a summary of the storage guidelines for GLP-1/GIP medications.
| Medication | Storage temperature in fridge | Storage temperature and time at room temperature |
| Wegovy® (Semaglutide) | 2-8°C | <30°C, 8 weeks |
| Ozempic® (Semaglutide) | 2-8°C | <30°C, 8 weeks |
| Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide) | 2-8°C | <30°C, 30 days |
| Zepbound® (Tirzepatide) | 2-8°C | <30°C, 30 days |
Additional considerations for travelling
Depending on your travel dates, you may want to consider changing your injection days and/or times. It may be a good idea to bring extra medication in case your trip becomes extended or if your pen malfunctions. If you have skipped your dose for two weeks or more, it is best to call your doctor to discuss how to best restart treatment. Consider potential changes in your diet, routine and sleep while travelling and plan ahead to minimize potential side effects. Constipation is a common side effect and may be exacerbated when travelling due to reasons such as consuming less fibre, drinking less water, alcohol intake and changes in time zones. You may want to consider bringing natural laxatives, stool softeners, anti-nausea medications, fibre supplements, and other dietary supplements to help manage potential symptoms. Extra dietary considerations may need to be planned such as regular access to meals and snacks. Some strategies that can help with managing symptoms is to eat smaller and more frequent meals, avoid greasy and heavy foods and to stop eating when you feel satisfied (mindful eating). Focus on including protein with every meal and consider bringing protein rich snacks to prepare for delays or long excursions. Adequate hydration is especially important when travelling. Consider bringing a water bottle with you and make sure you are drinking water throughout the day.
With some preparation and planning, you will feel more confident about travelling with your medication, so you can enjoy your time away. Consult your doctor and healthcare team if you have any questions. Safe travels!
Resources
Medication and Medical Items - CATSA
https://www.lilly.com/en-CA/resources/faq/zepbound-kwikpen/travelling-with-zepbound
https://www.lilly.com/en-CA/resources/faq/mounjaro-kwikpen/travelling-with-mounjaro