Authored by: Sergey Terushkin, MD, FACS
Last Updated: March 18, 2026
Storing medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® in Florida takes extra care. Heat, humidity, and travel can affect how these medications work. Even a short time in a hot car can reduce effectiveness. Knowing how to store your medication properly helps protect your results and avoid unnecessary cost.
Medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®) are made from proteins. These proteins are sensitive to temperature.
Too much heat can break them down. Freezing can damage their structure. When that happens, the medication may not work as expected.
Most patients won’t notice a change right away. But over time, improper storage can affect results.
Florida’s climate adds another layer of risk.
A parked car can reach over 100°F within minutes. Beach days, outdoor activities, and long drives expose medications to heat more often than people realize.
Power outages during storms can also affect refrigeration.
This doesn’t mean treatment isn’t safe. It just means storage needs more attention.
These apply to most GLP-1 medications:
Following a few simple steps can help maintain medication effectiveness throughout your treatment.
Keep Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® pens at 36°F–46°F as soon as you receive them.
Do not place medication near freezer compartments. If a pen freezes, it should not be used.
Avoid leaving medication in cars, near windows, or outdoors. This is especially important in Florida, where temperatures rise quickly.
Some medications can be kept at room temperature after first use:
Keep them below 86°F.
Store pens in their box or with the cap on. Light exposure can reduce stability.
If using compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide, keep vials refrigerated at all times.
Carry medication with you. Do not place it in checked luggage. For longer trips, use a medical cooler case.
Do not use medication if it has been exposed to heat above 86°F, freezing temperatures, or if the liquid appears cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Follow your provider’s instructions and medication guidelines.
Travel is one of the most common reasons medications are stored incorrectly.
Short trips may not require cooling if within room temperature limits. Longer trips usually do.
Discard medication if:
If you are unsure, it’s better to ask before using it.
Patients across South Florida receive physician-guided weight loss care with GLP-1 medications, including education on safe storage and use.
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Proper storage is simple once you understand the basics. A few small habits can protect your medication and help you stay consistent with your treatment.
Wegovy® (semaglutide) official storage instructions — Novo Nordisk
https://www.wegovy.com/obesity/starting-wegovy/starting-wegovy-pen.html
Ozempic® (semaglutide) FDA prescribing information (storage guidelines)
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/209637s020s021lbl.pdf
Wegovy® FDA prescribing information (storage instructions)
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/215256s007lbl.pdf
FDA guidance on GLP-1 medications and safety considerations
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fdas-concerns-unapproved-glp-1-drugs-used-weight-loss
Authored by: Sergey Terushkin, MD, FACS
Last Updated: March 18, 2026
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