Proper storage is essential to maintain the effectiveness of your GLP-1 medication. This guide covers everything you need to know about storing your medication at home and taking it with you when you travel.
Storage Requirements
Unopened Pens (New)
- Temperature: Store in refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)
- Location: Keep in original carton to protect from light
- Placement: Store on a shelf, NOT in the freezer compartment
- Do not freeze: Frozen medication must be discarded
- Expiration: Check date on packaging—do not use after expiration
Opened/In-Use Pens
- Options: Can be stored in refrigerator OR at room temperature
- Room temperature limit: Below 86°F (30°C)
- Keep away from heat: Don't store near stove, radiator, or in hot car
- Protect from light: Keep cap on pen when not in use
How Long After Opening?
Ozempic
56 days (8 weeks)
Wegovy
28 days (4 weeks)*
Mounjaro
21 days (3 weeks)
Zepbound
21 days (3 weeks)
*Single-dose pens—use immediately after opening
When to Discard Your Pen
- If it has been frozen
- If exposed to temperatures above 86°F (30°C)
- If the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles
- If past expiration date or in-use time limit
- If dropped and the pen may be damaged
Air Travel
Traveling by air with GLP-1 medications requires some planning, but it's straightforward once you know the rules.
TSA Guidelines
- Medications are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule
- Injectable medications can go in carry-on luggage
- Keep in original packaging with pharmacy labels if possible
- Declare medications to TSA officers at security screening
- You may bring ice packs, freezer packs, or gel packs to keep medication cool
- Needles are allowed when accompanied by injectable medication
Packing Tips for Flying
- ALWAYS carry medication in your carry-on bag: Never put it in checked luggage (cargo holds can freeze)
- Use an insulated bag: Travel coolers or insulin travel cases work well
- Include ice packs: Frozen gel packs can keep medication cool for hours
- Bring extra supplies: Pack extra needles, alcohol swabs, and medication if possible
- Carry a prescription copy: Helpful for international travel or if questioned
- Bring a letter from your doctor: Useful for international travel
Pro Tip: Time Zone Changes
If traveling across time zones, take your weekly injection based on the number of days since your last dose, not the local time. Aim for about 7 days between doses—a few hours difference is fine.
Road Trips
Car travel presents unique challenges, especially in extreme temperatures.
Hot Weather
- Never leave medication in a hot car
- Use a cooler with ice packs
- Keep cooler in air-conditioned cabin, not trunk
- Check temperature periodically if using cooler
- Don't let medication directly touch ice
Cold Weather
- Don't leave medication in freezing car
- Keep medication close to your body in cold weather
- Bring inside with you at rest stops
- Use an insulated pouch if walking in cold
Hotel and Vacation Storage
At Your Hotel
- Request a mini-fridge: Most hotels provide one upon request (often free for medical needs)
- Check the temperature: Hotel fridges can sometimes freeze items—test with water first
- Don't use the freezer: Store only in the refrigerator section
- Alternative: Your pen can stay at room temperature (under 86°F) during your trip if refrigeration isn't available
Cruises
- Contact the cruise line in advance about medication storage
- Request a cabin with a refrigerator or mini-bar you can use
- Some ships' medical centers can store medications
- Bring enough supplies for the entire trip plus extras
Camping/Outdoors
- Use a high-quality insulated cooler with ice packs
- Keep medication wrapped to prevent direct contact with ice
- Refresh ice packs as needed
- Consider the pen can be at room temperature for up to 3 weeks (if under 86°F)
- Time your injection for before the trip if possible
Travel Checklist
What to Pack
✓Medication pen(s)
✓Extra pen needles
✓Alcohol swabs
✓Sharps container
✓Insulated travel case
✓Ice/gel packs
✓Prescription copy
✓Doctor's letter (international)
International Travel Tips
- Carry a doctor's letter: Include your diagnosis, medication name, and necessity for treatment
- Know the brand names: Your medication may have different names in other countries
- Research your destination: Some countries have restrictions on injectable medications
- Bring enough medication: Plus extra in case of delays
- Know your embassy contact: In case you need emergency medication replacement
- Travel insurance: Ensure it covers medication replacement if needed
Emergency Situations
If Your Medication Was Exposed to Extreme Temperatures
- Don't use it: When in doubt, throw it out
- Contact your pharmacy: They may be able to provide an emergency supply
- Call your doctor: They can send a new prescription
- Document the incident: For insurance purposes
- Check manufacturer programs: Some offer replacement for damaged medication
With proper planning, you can travel confidently with your GLP-1 medication. The key is keeping it within the right temperature range and always having it accessible in your carry-on when flying.