Those taking Mounjaro should know that the prescription medication works by making you « feel fuller for longer and therefore less hungry », as certified by NHS England. But, when on holiday, « buffets are where people on GLP-1s could most often struggle », warned CheqUp’s superintendent pharmacist, Aaron Arman.
« High-fat or high-sugar foods are most likely to cause nausea and bloating so try avoiding those, » he advised. « Arrive prepared by having a protein snack 30 to 60 minutes beforehand… [and] use a small salad plate. » Mr Arman added: « Waiting 20 minutes before going back for seconds will allow your fullness signals to kick in and also helps to avoid nausea and bloating. »
Also be aware that « alcohol can hit harder » when taking Mounjaro, so all-inclusive resorts offering unlimited drinks could become problematic.
« Digestion is slower, so drink with food and alternate with water as needed, » Mr Arman advised. But drinking and eating on holiday aren’t the only factors to consider when taking Mounjaro.
Mr Arman emphasised that Mounjaro is a « temperature-sensitive prescription drug », meaning it’s « not something you can throw in a suitcase and forget about ».
« The cargo hold of a plane can experience extreme temperature changes that can destroy the medication, » Mr Arman warned.
« So GLP-1 injections should always be packed in hand luggage, but all needles should always be packed in your hold baggage like any other sharp objects. »
He added: « You should also keep your pens in their original packaging with the prescription label visible. And have your confirmation emails or prescription ready in case airport security asks for proof. »
As Mounjaro is sensitive to temperature, it’s critical to have an « insulated medical grade travel bag » to store them in.
« Upon arrival, store unopened pens in a refrigerator between 2C and 8C, » said Mr Arman. Once opened, Mounjaro « can be kept at room temperature for up to 30 days », but should be stored away from direct sunlight.
« Anything above 30 degrees can reduce their potency, even if they still look normal, » Mr Arman clarified.
As Clinical Lead at CheqUp Health Ltd, Aaron Arman brings a decade of pharmacy experience spanning community pharmacy and primary care. A pharmacist by training, his clinical focus has long centred on metabolic health with particular interest in type 2 diabetes and obesity management. That specialist interest now shapes the clinical framework underpinning CheqUp’s GLP-1 weight management programme, where evidence-based prescribing, patient safety and long-term patient outcomes are central to everything the service does.
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