Travelling can be a thrilling and enriching experience. For those who rely on daily medications like Saxenda, it can also pose challenges. However, with proper planning and organisation, you can enjoy your travels without compromising your treatment. 

This guide is specifically designed for Saxenda patients who travel frequently. We offer handy tips and storage requirements to ensure your medication stays effective during your journeys.

What is Saxenda?

Saxenda is a weight loss treatment that uses a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Saxenda works by mimicking the actions of hormones in your body. These hormones ensure food is digested more slowly and reduce your appetite. Combined with increased exercise and a reduced calorie diet, this can help you lose weight.

Saxenda weight loss injections are injected into the skin subcutaneously, just under the top layer of skin. It can be injected into the arm, thigh or stomach area. 

Understand Saxenda Storage Requirements

The first step to effectively manage your Saxenda while travelling is to understand the storage requirements. Saxenda should be stored at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) before first use. Once the pen is in use, it can be kept at room temperature or in a refrigerator. Ensure the medication is kept below 30°C. 

The pen should be discarded after 30 days of first use, even if there is still medication left in it. Avoid exposing the pen to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car or near a heating source. Allowing this medication to heat up can damage the active ingredient in Saxenda, leading to the medication not working.

Invest in a Portable Cooler or Insulated Bag

To maintain Saxenda’s effectiveness, invest in a portable cooler or insulated bag to keep your medication at the appropriate temperature during your travels. There are travel-friendly cooler bags available in various sizes and designs. Choose one that best suits your needs. These bags can maintain the necessary temperature for several hours, ensuring your Saxenda refills stay safe and effective while you travel.

Carry a Letter from Your Doctor

Carry a letter from your healthcare provider detailing your prescription for Saxenda. This can be helpful in various situations, including airport security checks and customs. The letter should include information about your medical condition, the prescribed medication, and the required dosage. Keep this letter with your travel documents for easy access when needed.

Keep Your Saxenda in Your Carry-On Bag

To ensure you have constant access to your medication, always keep your Saxenda in a carry-on bag when flying. Checked luggage can be subjected to temperature fluctuations and potential loss. Having your medication with you at all times can prevent any complications. Additionally, be aware of the liquid restrictions for carry-on bags and ensure your Saxenda pen complies with those requirements.

Set Reminders for Your Dosage Schedule

Adhering to your regular Saxenda dosage schedule is crucial, even when travelling. Time zone changes, busy schedules, and new environments can make it all too easy to forget your daily dose of Saxenda. Set reminders on your phone or use a pill reminder app to ensure you don’t miss any doses.

Plan Ahead

Make sure you have enough pens before travelling.  If your travel plans change, you may need to consult with a local healthcare provider to obtain a prescription. Planning ahead can help you avoid any gaps in your treatment.

Be Aware of Side Effects

The side effects of Saxenda can be difficult to deal with, especially when you are travelling. Injection site reactions can be made worse with sun exposure or with sunscreen. Make sure any injection sites are covered with protective clothing.

It is also wise to keep an eye on the digestive side effects, including nausea. Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common complaint for those visiting new countries. However, Saxenda can also cause diarrhoea, as well as nausea and vomiting. In both cases, you should stay hydrated and ensure that medical attention is available should it get any worse.

If your side effects worsen, stop using Saxenda and seek medical attention.

For a full list of possible side effects, please read the Patient Information Leaflet for Saxenda. 

Where Can I Get Saxenda?

You can order Saxenda through Simple Online Pharmacy. Simply complete an online assessment, and one of our prescribers will review your answers. If Saxenda is suitable for you, our doctors can write your prescription and we will arrange delivery to your door (within the UK).

We also stock a wide variety of treatments, including prescription medications and travel essentials (such as malaria prevention treatments).

Conclusion

Travelling while using Saxenda doesn’t have to be a challenge. By understanding the storage requirements, investing in the right accessories and planning ahead, you can enjoy your trips without compromising your medication’s effectiveness. Remember to always consult your healthcare provider for advice and any additional precautions that may be necessary for your specific situation.

Happy travels!

This article was partially written using AI generated content, and reviewed by a pharmacist.