Does Zepbound need to be refrigerated? Complete storage guide

Key Points

• Zepbound injections are ideally refrigerated. They are designed to stay stable in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F
• Zepbound can stay unrefrigerated for up to 3 weeks at certain temperatures
• Once removed from the fridge, the medication cannot be re-refrigerated and must be used within the 3-week window
• Freezing damages Zepbound permanently and requires disposal (even after thawing)

Starting Zepbound for weight loss brings practical questions about storage. Can you leave it on the counter? What happens if you forget to refrigerate it?

Storing Zepbound correctly makes the difference between medication that works and medication that doesn't. The good news is that the storage rules are straightforward.

This article covers everything you need to know about storing Zepbound safely, whether at home or on the road.

What is Zepbound?

Zepbound is an injectable prescription medication containing tirzepatide. The medication mimics two natural hormones your body produces after eating, helping regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

“The FDA approved Zepbound to help adults with obesity and at least one weight-related health issue,” explains Gia Eapen, MD. “Zepbound must be combined with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity.”

Clinical results show that Zepbound is effective for weight loss. In a 72-week study, participants lost 15%  on 5 mg, 19.5% on 10 mg, and 20.9%  on 15 mg doses.

It is injected once a week in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Does Zepbound need to be refrigerated?

Yes, Zepbound needs to be refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F for optimal stability. This standard refrigerator range keeps the medication effective until its expiration date.

If refrigeration isn't available, you can store Zepbound temporarily under specific conditions:

• Unopened pens or vials can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 weeks, provided the temperature does not exceed 86°F
• Store Zepbound in the original carton to protect it from light
• Keep the medication away from windows and heaters
• 💡Tip: Record the removal date to track the 3-week timeline

Important notes:

• Once removed from refrigeration, Zepbound cannot be returned to cold storage. Use it within 3 weeks or discard it.
• After each injection, dispose of the pen immediately in an appropriate sharps container. This is necessary even when medication is visibly present in the vial.

How long does Zepbound last in the fridge?

When properly refrigerated, unopened Zepbound remains effective until the printed expiration date on both cartons and individual pens or vials.

Always verify this date before each injection. Never use expired medication, as it may not work correctly. If you suspect the medication was exposed to improper temperatures or notice any discoloration, contact your pharmacist before use.

What happens if Zepbound freezes?

Never freeze Zepbound. If the medication freezes, throw it away, even if it thaws out later.

Freezing can permanently damage the medication's structure, rendering it ineffective and potentially unsafe despite its normal appearance. Contact your pharmacy for a replacement.

What happens when Zepbound is not refrigerated?

Exposure above 86°F or storage for more than 3 weeks at room temperature degrades the medication. It may not work effectively even if the appearance seems normal.

When uncertain about storage conditions, consult your pharmacist rather than risk ineffective treatment.

How to store Zepbound when traveling?

Travel requires planning, but doesn't have to interrupt your routine.

Consider packing your medication in your carry-on luggage only. Checked baggage experiences extreme temperature swings that can damage the medication.

💡Tip: Keep Zepbound in its original pharmacy-labeled packaging for TSA checkpoint clearance.

For trips under 3 weeks without refrigerator access, maintain temperatures below 86°F and protect from light. Longer trips or hot climates require medical-grade insulated travel cases with gel packs. Your pharmacist can provide recommendations.

How can you tell if Zepbound has gone bad?

Zepbound should look colorless or have a slight yellow tint.

Before use:

• Hold the pen or vial up to the light before each injection and look closely
• Do not use it if the liquid looks cloudy or murky, if you see floating particles, if the color has changed a lot, or if it has been frozen.
• Do not use if the expiration date has passed

When uncertain about medication quality, tell your pharmacist what you observed. They can determine if you need a replacement.

Final thoughts

Proper storage ensures Zepbound remains effective throughout your weight loss journey. While refrigeration is ideal, the medication can tolerate room temperatures below 86°F for up to 3 weeks.

Remember the essentials: refrigerate when possible, never freeze, protect from light, and never re-refrigerate after warming. Always inspect before injecting.

Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist with any storage concerns.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I use Zepbound if it has not been refrigerated?

Yes, under specific conditions. Unrefrigerated storage works for up to 3 weeks at room temperatures below 86°F. Beyond this timeframe or temperature limit, discard the medication and obtain a replacement.

How long can Zepbound be unrefrigerated?

Zepbound can remain unrefrigerated for up to 3 weeks at room temperature up to 86°F. Track your removal date and discard unused medication after this period. Keep the drug in its original carton to protect it from light.

Does Zepbound expire?

Yes. Expiration dates appear on cartons and individual pens or vials. Properly refrigerated medication remains effective until this date. Always verify the date before each injection.

Achieve your weight loss goals with Zepbound. Find a registered dietitian covered by insurance.

The views expressed by authors and contributors of such content are not endorsed or approved by Fay and are intended for informational purposes only. The content is reviewed by Fay only to confirm educational value and audience interest. You are encouraged to discuss any questions that you may have about your health with a healthcare provider.