Does Mounjaro Need Refrigeration? Proper Storage Tips

Does Mounjaro Need to Be Refrigerated?

Mounjaro is a recently approved injectable medication for managing type 2 diabetes. One of the most common questions for new users is whether Mounjaro requires refrigeration for proper storage.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is an incretin mimetic medication used to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It helps regulate glucose by working with the body's natural incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP.

Mounjaro was approved by the FDA in May 2022 as both a stand-alone diabetes treatment and for use in combination with other glucose lowering medications like metformin.

How is Mounjaro Supplied?

Mounjaro comes in pre-filled syringes and autoinjector pens containing 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, or 15mg doses of the tirzepatide solution. The pens and syringes are designed for subcutaneous self-injection under the skin.

Does Mounjaro Have Special Storage Requirements?

Yes, the maker Eli Lilly does recommend specific storage conditions for maximizing drug stability and shelf life:

• Refrigerate pre-filled pens/syringes between 36F to 46F (2C to 8C).
• Can be stored at room temp up to 86F (30C) for up to 14 days if needed.
• Do not freeze Mounjaro or expose to excessive heat above 98.6F (37C).
• Protect the medication from light until time of use.

Why Refrigeration is Recommended

There are a few reasons why refrigeration can benefit drugs like Mounjaro:

Extends Chemical Stability

Cooler fridge temperatures help maximize the stability and shelf life of delicate protein and peptide based medications.

Prevents Spoilage

Refrigeration protects injectable solutions against microbial growth from bacterial, fungal, or other environmental contaminants.

Reduces Painful Injections

Injections kept at room temperature can become uncomfortable to administer as the liquid warms. Cooler medication tends to sting less.

Storing Mounjaro Properly

Following the right refrigeration and storage steps helps keep your Mounjaro doses safe and effective for use:

Designate Space

Choose a dedicated space for your Mounjaro inside the refrigerator to prevent accidental freezing or getting lost among other contents.

Utilize Storage Bins

Place your pens or syringes inside a clearly marked storage container to both protect them and make the medication easy to locate when needed.

Limit Temperature Fluctuations

Avoid opening the refrigerator more than necessary, and don't store Mounjaro on the door shelves where temperatures vary the most as they open and close.

Check Expiration Dates

Always inspect expiration dates before injecting, and properly dispose of any expired pens or syringes with medication no longer suitable for use.

Transitioning Mounjaro to Room Temperature

What if you need to take your next Mounjaro dose with you while traveling or heading out? Here are some tips for proper room temp transition:

Plan Ahead

Remove your needed pen or syringe dose from the fridge at least 30-45 minutes in advance so it can slowly adjust to ambient room conditions.

Insulate Properly

Transport your Mounjaro dose inside an insulated bag or cooler with ice/cold packs to protect it from getting too warm in hot weather or direct sunlight.

Use Promptly

Inject within 14 days to ensure full potency. Don't put partially used pens or syringes back into the fridge after reaching room temperature.

Alternatives to Refrigeration

If you don't have reliable access to refrigeration, there are a couple options to explore:

Insulated Coolers

Portable electric coolers and mini fridges designed for travel, offices, or college dorm rooms can maintain appropriate temperature ranges.

Medication Storage Containers

Special pharmaceutical storage units with cooling can provide refrigeration for medication without needing an entire fridge.

Discuss your lifestyle and needs with your doctor to determine the most practical Mounjaro storage solutions for your situation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.