How to Travel Safely With Mounjaro: 7 Tips

As the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise (currently affecting nearly 12% of the US population), the number of people taking diabetes medications to help manage their blood sugar levels is higher than ever.¹ One of the most popular medications for type 2 diabetes on the market today is Mounjaro (also known as Tirzepatide). Unlike most medications that come in pill form, Mounjaro is an injection, which makes it more challenging to travel with. If you’re taking Mounjaro and planning trips and vacations, we share everything you need to know. 

Mounjaro is FDA-approved to help improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. It was created by Eli Lilly and is in a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists and other popular medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Mounjaro has been shown to effectively lower blood sugar levels when used with a healthy diet and exercise routine. In addition to lowering blood glucose levels, Mounjaro also supports weight loss. Clinical evidence has shown that patients taking Mounjaro for 1.5 years had an average weight loss of 21% of their initial body weight.²

If you’ve got a medical condition, traveling with any medication can be complicated, and GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro are no exception. Fortunately, you can add Mounjaro to your packing list because it is possible to travel with this prescription drug if you keep a few things in mind. Keep reading to learn how to bring this medication on your upcoming trips.

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Travel Tips: How to Travel with Mounjaro 

If you’re taking Mounjaro, you know that it requires different handling than other medications. Unlike shelf-stable medications typically in the form of a capsule, Mounjaro is an injection that must be stored at a specific temperature and kept out of direct sunlight. Follow these Mounjaro travel tips when you’re on the go with your medication in tow:³

1. Keep It Refrigerated Until You Leave: Mounjaro should be kept in the fridge until use (or, in this case, until you leave for your trip). It can last at room temperature for up to 21 days. Track expiration dates, and don’t use a pen that has been out of the fridge for over three weeks. If you're planning a trip longer than three weeks, talk to your healthcare provider for medical advice about adhering to your medication.

2. Check the Fridge Temperature: Some refrigerators vary in temperature, and most are colder near the back than on the front/on the door. When Mounjaro is in the fridge, the temperature should be between 36°F to 46°F.

3. Don't Freeze Mounjaro: Freezing Mounjaro won’t make it last longer. Never use a frozen syringe.

4. Shade Over Sun: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) should be kept in the original box and out of direct sunlight until ready to use it. Light can cause chemical reactions that alter the stability and effectiveness of the drug.

5. Stay Cool: If you’re packing your Mounjaro pens for a road trip, make sure not to leave them in a hot car. This medication mustn’t reach a temperature any higher than 86°F.

6. Take What You Need: Plan to determine how many pens you will need during your trip. Don’t pack more than necessary because this will deplete your supply. 

7. Dispose Safely: If you’re administering the Mounjaro injection while you’re away from home, it’s important to dispose of the Mounjaro pen safely. Look for an FDA approved sharps container to dispose of the pen whenever possible safely.

<div class="pro-tip"><strong>Learn More: </strong><a href=wegovy-vs-mounjaro>Wegovy vs. Mounjaro: Differences, Dosage, and Side Effects</a>.</div>

Traveling on a Plane with Mounjaro: What You Need to Know

Airport security checkpoints can be pretty strict, so planning ahead is essential when flying with any medication, especially Mounjaro. The last thing you need is to be held up in security administration with TSA agents rifling through your bag. To avoid this, you should check with your airline for their recommendations for flying with prescription medications before you leave. 

In general, passengers can travel with Mounjaro in their carry-on luggage. Keeping this medication in your carry-on bag is smart because the area under the plane where checked luggage is stored can vary in temperature. Temperature fluctuations can damage the medication, so keeping it with you reduces this risk. You may have to present some documentation depending on where you're heading. This could include a letter from your doctor, your medical prescription, or proof of medical insurance. 

You should also be prepared to present the prescription box labeled with your name. This is especially true when flying internationally. Talk to your airline or travel agent to understand the destination country’s requirements before you leave so that there is no issue getting your medication through security checkpoints.  

Traveling on a Car with Mounjaro: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a road trip or driving to your destination, you can safely bring Mounjaro. Driving is much simpler than flying because you don’t have to worry about security checks, but you still need to be mindful of how you store and transport your prescription medication. 

Remember never leaving Mounjaro unattended in your car or trunk is the most important thing to remember. Doing so may compromise the quality of the medication due to drastic temperature changes. Consider storing Mounjaro in an insulated bag; numerous ice packs are available for purchase to keep Mounjaro cool during travel in warmer climates. However, it is crucial to note that overheating and freezing the medication can affect its quality. 

When traveling with Mounjaro in a car, always ensure it is safely stored in an area separate from your other belongings. Choose a spot in the car where you will be more likely to remember to retrieve the medication once you reach your destination. Storing it in a travel case is another way to minimize the risk of losing or leaving it behind in the car.  Always protect your Mounjaro pens from direct sunlight and store them in shaded areas.

If you have additional questions about traveling with your medication, it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before your trip. 

Learn How to Improve Your Nutrition and Monitor Your Glycemic Index Levels With Signos’ Expert Advice

Signos incorporates cutting-edge research and the proven power of continuous glucose monitoring to help you lose weight and reach your health goals. Not sure if Signos is right for you? Take this quiz to find out! Interested in learning more about nutrition and healthy eating habits? Check out more articles on our blog.

<div class="pro-tip"><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href=wegovy-vs-ozempic>Wegovy vs. Ozempic: Differences and Which Is Better</a>.</div>