Storing and Travelling with Mounjaro: A Practical Guide

Proper storage is essential for Mounjaro to remain effective. If you're travelling or need to transport your medication, here's what you need to know.

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Storage Requirements

Before First Use

• Store in the refrigerator at 2-8°C
• Keep in original packaging to protect from light
• Do not freeze
• Do not use if it has been frozen

After First Use

• Can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 21 days
• Or continue storing in the refrigerator
• Discard after 21 days at room temperature, even if medication remains

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What to Avoid

• Freezing: Never freeze Mounjaro. If frozen, discard it.
• Extreme heat: Don't leave in a hot car or direct sunlight
• Leaving out too long: Track how many days since first use

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Travelling with Mounjaro

Short Trips (Under 21 Days)

For trips under 21 days in moderate climates:

• A pen already in use can travel at room temperature
• Keep away from extreme temperatures
• A small insulated pouch provides extra protection

Longer Trips or Hot Climates

For extended travel or destinations above 30°C:

• Use a medical cooling case or travel cooler
• Cooling wallets with gel packs work well
• Ensure gel packs don't directly touch the pen (to avoid freezing)

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Flying with Mounjaro

Carry-On vs Checked Luggage

Always pack Mounjaro in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags:

• Cargo holds can freeze, damaging the medication
• If bags are lost, you'll still have your medication
• Security screening rarely causes issues with medications

Security Screening Tips

• Medications are permitted through security
• Keep in original packaging with your name visible
• Declare it if asked, but usually no questions are raised
• Cooling packs for medication are generally permitted

Consider a Doctor's Letter

For international travel, having a letter from your prescriber can be helpful. It should state:

• Your name
• The medication name and dose
• That it's medically necessary
• Your doctor's contact details

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Timing Injections While Travelling

Time Zone Changes

Mounjaro is dosed weekly, so minor timing variations are fine:

• Take it on the same day each week, even if the exact time varies
• If crossing many time zones, aim for your usual injection day in either time zone
• A few hours' difference doesn't matter

Planning Around Travel

Consider timing your injection to avoid:

• Long flight days (nausea can be worse with travel)
• Days with important activities where side effects would be inconvenient

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Disposal While Travelling

• Used pens should go in a sharps container
• Travel sharps containers are available from pharmacies
• If no sharps container is available, use a hard plastic container with a secure lid
• Never dispose of in regular rubbish bins in public spaces

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What If Your Medication Gets Too Hot or Cold?

If you suspect temperature damage:

• Check for any visible changes (cloudiness, particles, colour change)
• When in doubt, discard and use a new pen
• Contact your pharmacy or prescriber for advice

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Planning Ahead

Before travelling:

• Ensure you have enough medication for the trip plus a buffer
• Research pharmacy access at your destination (in case of emergency)
• Consider travel insurance that covers medications