Storing and travelling with tirzepatide
The fridge and room-temperature rules for every Zepbound and Mounjaro presentation, and how to apply them away from home.
Key facts
- Keep it in the fridge at 2–8 °C (36–46 °F), in its carton, away from light and heat.
- Single-dose pens and vials can be out of the fridge up to 21 days in total, at no more than 30 °C (86 °F).
- Multi-dose vials and KwikPens: 30 days unopened at room temperature; once used, 30 days or 4 doses.
- Never freeze it, and never use it if it has been frozen.
Storage rules by presentation
| Presentation | In the fridge (2–8 °C / 36–46 °F) | Out of the fridge (up to 30 °C / 86 °F) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-dose pen or vial | Until the expiry date | Up to 21 days in total, then throw it away |
| Multi-dose vial or KwikPen, unopened | Until the expiry date | Throw away after 30 days |
| Multi-dose vial or KwikPen, in use | Fridge or room temperature; throw away 30 days after first use or after 4 doses, even if medicine is left | |
Never freeze it
Keep it away from the back wall and the freezer compartment of the fridge, where items can freeze.
Travelling with tirzepatide
The room-temperature allowances are what make travel straightforward: a single-dose pen or vial can be out of the fridge for up to 21 days, a KwikPen or multi-dose vial for up to 30, as long as it stays at or below 30 °C (86 °F). Count the days from when it leaves the fridge, not from when you travel.
- Carry it with you rather than in checked luggage, where the hold can get cold enough to freeze it or bags can be lost.
- Keep it in its carton, out of direct sun and out of a hot car.
- Take pen needles or syringes and a small sharps container for the trip.
Before you inject
The medicine should be clear and colourless to slightly yellow. Do not use it if it is cloudy, discoloured, has particles, has been frozen or is past its expiry date.
Frequently asked questions
How long can tirzepatide be out of the fridge?
A single-dose pen or vial up to 21 days in total, and an unopened KwikPen or multi-dose vial up to 30 days, at or below 30 °C (86 °F).
What if my tirzepatide froze?
Do not use it, even after it thaws. The labels say not to use tirzepatide that has been frozen.
Can I take tirzepatide on a plane?
Yes. Keep it in your hand luggage rather than checked bags, in its carton, and count its days out of the fridge.
Does an in-use KwikPen need to go back in the fridge?
No. An opened KwikPen or multi-dose vial can be kept in the fridge or at room temperature; either way, throw it away 30 days after first use or after 4 doses.