Tips for Managing GLP-1 Medications While Traveling

As you plan your perfect vacation and book hotel accommodations or secure your airfare, don’t forget to plan one of the most critical parts of your trip: your medication adherence game plan. 

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Planning ahead to prep the medication and medical supplies you need for travel is crucial, especially if you take time-sensitive medications like GLP-1s. In this blog, we’ll explore some top tips for managing your medication plan, how to pack, and ways to utilize technology for success.

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Consult with Your Healthcare Provider Early On

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Anytime you travel or go on vacation, an essential part of your to-do list before setting off should be to check in with your physician and pharmacist. These experts can help ensure you’ve packed enough for your journey (always overpack and expect the unexpected), give you tips on remaining adherent, and even provide guidance on how to pack and store your medications. 

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Getting refills for medications like GLP-1s can be incredibly time-sensitive and your doctor or pharmacist may be able to help you secure advanced refills so you don’t run out during your trip — especially if you’re traveling abroad or somewhere where you may not have access to a pharmacy. 

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Pack the Essentials and Store Medications Properly

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If you take your GLP-1 medication via injection, it’s important to have all of the needed supplies to proceed with your injections safely while on the go.Have a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist about the number of doses you’ll need to bring, as well as other materials like cotton pads, alcohol wipes, and other necessities. 

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Also, discuss if any medications you’re taking with you need to be stored in certain conditions such as being refrigerated. With any medication, it’s a good idea to keep them in your ‘personal item’ bag that is permitted to be stored under the seat so you can access it at all times and you can be sure this bag will not need to be checked and potentially lost or delayed.

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Use Technology to Maintain a Consistent Schedule

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Traveling through different timezones can make sticking to a consistent routine difficult — especially when it comes to correctly timing medication administration. Consider using your phone to set specific timers for when you should space out your doses or even schedule events in your calendar. 

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Your provider or pharmacist might also have recommendations on certain medical apps that can send correctly timed reminders on when it’s time to start prepping to administer an injection. 

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Create an Emergency Plan

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Any time you travel, it’s important to expect the unexpected. Flights and trains often get delayed — and you don’t want these hiccups to jeopardize your health.

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When you prep for your travel by chatting with your physician or pharmacist, be sure to discuss contingency plans and other methods to ensure you remain adherent to your GLP-1 medication.

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If you do the proper pre-work traveling while on a GLP-1 treatment plan can be a breeze. Always make sure to keep your healthcare team in the know about what you have planned and how you can best ensure your travel and adherence to your plan will go off without a hitch. 

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The information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace direct medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

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Sources:

“GLP-1 Agonists.” The Cleveland Clinic.

“I am traveling with medication, are there any requirements I should be aware of?.” The U.S. Department of Homeland Security.