If you are eagerly awaiting the groundbreaking weight-loss treatment Zepbound, you will be glad to know that it’s expected to hit the Canadian market soon! Although an official release date has not been announced, Health Canada is likely reviewing Zepbound for approval. If you are already on a Zepbound treatment and traveling in Canada or internationally, you must have a million questions.
How to bring Zepbound on a plane? What’s the best way to keep it cool during your travels? Travelling with refrigerated medications like Zepbound can be tricky, especially for newcomers to this weight-loss treatment.
In this article we will answer all the most common questions about traveling with Zepbound. Across Canada or internationally? this guide offers practical tips to ensure your Zepbound injections stay effective throughout your journey.
Related article: Zepbound: A Complete Guide About the Newest Weight-Loss Drug.
If you prefer a visual overview, check out our video on this topic below!
How to Keep Zepbound Cool While Travelling?
Zepbpund is a weight-loss injection, prescribed for adults that are struggling with obesity or weight-related health issues. Zepbounds active ingredient Tirzepatide is very sensitive to light and heat and must be stored at a certain temperature to maintain its effectiveness.
Like Wegovy, Zepbound comes in pre-filled single-dose injector pens for weekly subcutaneous injections. The main challenge while traveling with Zepbound is how to keep the pens at the proper temperature. Let’s explore how to store and transport it safely during your trip.
Related article: How to Get Zepbound: Prescription, Eligibility, and Coverage Explained!
Zepbound Storage Instructions
According to Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Zepbound, the medication must be kept at very specific temperatures in order for it to stay effective and safe for use wether you're travelling or staying at home.
It must be stored refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C. If refrigeration is not an option, Zepbound can be stored at room temperature up to 30°C for a maximum of 21 days, provided it is kept away from light.
Related article: How to Store Zepbound? Does it Need to Be Refrigerated?
Medical Travel Coolers for Zepbound
When travelling with Zepbound, its crucial to consider the length of your trip:
For trips longer than 21 days:
For a trip this long, Zepbound must be kept refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C. Its highly recomendable to invest in a reliable portable medication fridge such as those from 4AllFamily Canada, that will make your journey less stressful.
Portable medication fridges like the 4AllFamily Voyager Travel Fridge are ideal for every kind of travel. This model can fit 2 Zepbound pens and maintains refrigeration indefinitely when powered via USB, whether through a car adapter, solar panel, or power bank. Without electricity, it can keep Zepbound cool for up to 30 hours using biogel freeze packs.
Alternatively, the Nomad Cooling Case offers a cost-effective solution. Using only biogel freeze packs, it maintains refrigeration for about 30 hours depending on the environment. It keeps 2 Zepbound pens, is lightweight and perfect for Canadian adventurers.
For trips shorter than 21 days in warm climates:
If your trip lasts less than 21 days, Zepbound can be safely kept at room temperature, although it should never exceed 30°C. However, to protect it from heat, use a medical-grade cooler like those from 4AllFamily to ensure the medication stays within safe temperature limits.
For more information or assistance, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help!
Related article: Zepbound Side Effects: Deciphering Warnings and Contraindications
Additional Tips for Keeping Zepbound Cool
Here are a few extra tips to ensure that Zepbound stays safe and cool on the go:
- Store pens in the shade and away from direct sunlight.
- Use a thermometer to monitor storage temperatures.
- Keep Zepbound secure in your hotel room if not needed during outings.
- Avoid exposure to heat sources, such as fireplaces or stoves.
- Never leave your medication in a parked car.
If you're not sure if your Zepbound has been exposed to direct sunlight or very high temperatures and might have gone bad, you shouldn't use it. Same goes for Pens if the liquid appears cloudy, discoloured, or contains particles.
Flying with Zepbound
Good news for travellers—you can bring Zepbound pens on planes! Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) guidelines allow passengers to carry prescribed medications, even in liquid form, in their carry-on luggage. Standard liquid restrictions do not apply to medications.
Always pack Zepbound pens in their original packaging with pharmacy labels intact. Carry a few extra pens to account for travel delays. You should always pack them in your hand luggage, to avoid damaging or exposure to extreme temperatures.
Related article: How to Travel with Syringes & Injectable Medications?
International Travel with Zepbound
Travelling internationally with Zepbound is usually straightforward, but it’s always wise to do a bit of homework beforehand. Different countries may have unique rules about bringing medications across their borders, so preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary hassles.
Research the rules: Before you go, check the medication transport laws for your destination. A quick internet search or a call to the local embassy or consulate should provide you with the information you need.
Have proper documentation: Bring a letter from your healthcare provider or a copy of your prescription. The letter should explain your need for Zepbound, detail the dosage, and outline your treatment plan. These documents can help clarify things if customs officials or other authorities have questions.
Stick to the original packaging: Keep your Zepbound pens in their original containers with pharmacy labels clearly visible.
Pack the right amount: Only take what you’ll need for the trip, plus a small buffer in case of delays. Carrying excessive quantities might raise red flags with customs.
Related article: Tips for Travelling with Medication Internationally
Important documents to carry:
- A letter from your doctor detailing your need for Zepbound.
- A copy of your prescription.
- Your medical health card.
- Proof of travel insurance.
Finally, confirm that your travel insurance is valid in the country you’re visiting. If you have a preexisting condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, make sure it’s included in your coverage.
Related article: How to Get Travel Insurance for Pre-existing Medical Conditions
We hope this guide makes preparing for your trip with Zepbound easier. Have questions or tips to share? Drop them in the comments below to help our community of Canadian travellers!