Quick answer: Zepbound can be stored unrefrigerated for up to 21 days, but it should never be kept above 86°F or 30°C. After that, or if exposed to higher temperatures, it is considered unsafe for use.
Zepbound is a recently FDA-approved weight-loss injection designed for adults with obesity or excess weight who also have weight-related health concerns. Similar to Wegovy, it comes in prefilled injector pens and is taken once a week through a subcutaneous injection.
What makes Zepbound especially effective is its active ingredient, Tirzepatide, a powerful biologic medication. But like most biologics, it's extremely sensitive to both temperature and light, which means how you store it matters a lot.
In this article, we'll cover exactly how long Zepbound can be out of the fridge, what to do if it's accidentally left out, and how to store it safely in everyday situations.
Related article: Flying with Zepbound: What You Need to Know Before You Get to the Airport
Can Zepbound Be Left Unrefrigerated?
Heat or improper storage can break down and reduce the effectiveness of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound. This is why understanding Zepbound's temperature and storage guidelines is so crucial to making sure your medication is working as it should.
Zepbound pens should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) to ensure they are still safe to use up until the expiration date labeled on the package.
However, there is some room for flexibility.
According to Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, Zepbound can be stored unrefrigerated (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 21 days.
That said, it's important to track how long it's been left out of the fridge. After 21 days at room temperature or if the pen is ever exposed to temperatures above 86°F, it should no longer be used.
Related article: Zepbound Storage Guide: How to Properly Store Your Weight-Loss Injections at Home.
How long can Zepbound be out of the fridge?
This is one of the most common questions users ask. So let's be clear: Zepbound can be out of the fridge for up to 21 days, as long as it is kept below 86°F (30°C).
This 21-day limit starts the first time the pen is taken out of the refrigerator. That means once it's been unrefrigerated, even just once, you've got a 3-week window to use it. After that, the medication should be properly disposed of, even if it still looks fine.
🚨Important tip: Once stored at room temperature, you should not put Zepbound back in the fridge.
Related article: Can You Inject Zepbound Cold From the Fridge or At Room Temperature?
What to do If You Accidentally Left Zepbound out
As you can see, leaving Zepbound out of the fridge doesn't automatically make it unsafe.
What truly matters is how long it's been out and what temperature it's been exposed to during that time.
So if you accidentally left it out overnight in a cool house or forgot to put it back in the fridge after your injection, there's no need to panic. As long as the room wasn't overly warm, the medication is likely still safe and effective.
However, exposure to heat above 86°F (30°C), even for a short period, can damage the active ingredient, tirzepatide, and reduce the medication's effectiveness. This is especially important during summer months, in hot climates, or when traveling.
If your Zepbound pen has been sitting out and you're unsure about the temperature or time, ask yourself:
- Was it in a cool, shaded place or a hot environment (like a car)?
- How many total days has it been unrefrigerated since its first removal?
- How does the medication look?
Always inspect the pen before use. Some common signs of spoilage can include:
❌ Cloudy liquid
❌ Particles
❌ Discoloration
If you notice any of these, do not use your Zepbound pen!
💡 Pro tip: When in doubt, contact your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Keeping Zepbound Safe at Room Temperature
Follow these important guidelines to make sure your medication stays safe and effective:
✅ Mark the date when you first remove it from the fridge so you can track the 21-day limit.
✅ Avoid direct sunlight and warm environments like cars, windowsills, or gym bags.
✅ Use a medication cooler bag to keep Zepbound cool on the go or a portable medical cooler for extended traveling.
✅ Never freeze Zepbound, as it can permanently damage the medication.
Check out our full Zepbound storage guide for more information on keeping your medication safe and effective, no matter where you are!
Related article: Tips for Traveling with Zepbound Pens!
📌 Key Takeaways:
🧊 21-day rule: Zepbound can be unrefrigerated for up to 21 days, but only if kept under 86°F (30°C).
🔥 Heat is a dealbreaker: Exposure to temperatures above 86°F, even for a short time, can make Zepbound unsafe.
🚫 Don't re-chill: Once it's been out of the fridge, do not put it back in.
🧳 Plan for travel: Use a medical cooler bag to keep Zepbound safe while you're on the go.
We'd Love to Hear From You!
💬 Have you ever accidentally left your Zepbound out of the fridge? What tricks do you use to keep it cool while traveling or at work? Share your questions, experiences, and best tips in the comments below. We're here to help and learn from each other.
