Traveling With Dupixent: A Guide for International Travel
Dupixent (dupilumab) is a revolutionary medication for treating certain chronic inflammatory conditions like severe asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, and moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. However, as a biological therapy, Dupixent can be tricky to travel with due to its temperature sensitivity and special documentation requirements. This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling with Dupixent internationally or by plane.
Table of Contents
Storing and Transporting Dupixent
The most critical consideration when traveling with Dupixent is proper storage and transportation. According to prescribing guidelines:
- Dupixent must be refrigerated between 36-46°F (2-8°C) before first use. It can be stored for up to 14 days at room temperature up to 77°F (25°C) after opening.
- Dupixent should never freeze or be exposed to direct sunlight or temperatures above 77°F (25°C), even temporarily. Heat exposure can damage the medication.
To maintain the cold chain while traveling:
- Carry Dupixent in an insulated cooler bag with ice/cool packs. Specialized medical travel coolers like the FRIO Wallet or 4AllFamily Nomad allow transport at proper temperatures for 45+ hours.
- Request a hotel fridge or mini-fridge to store Dupixent. Some hotels provide medical-grade fridges upon request.
- Monitor the temperature of your Dupixent carefully with a digital thermometer packed with your supplies.
- Take precautions even on short flights to prevent heat exposure in the cargo hold or on the tarmac.
Flying Domestically with Dupixent
When flying within the U.S., you can take Dupixent on the plane with you, provided you follow TSA guidelines:
- Carry your Dupixent and any necessary medical supplies (syringes, sharps container, ice packs) in your onboard carry-on luggage only. Refrain from packing in checked baggage.
- Ensure all medications are clearly labeled with your name, doctor’s details, and prescription number. Keep Dupixent in its original packaging.
- Notify TSA officers you are traveling with injectable medication and medical sharps. Have your prescription and doctor’s note on hand.
- Pack medical liquids/gels/aerosols over the 3.4oz limit allowed on carry-ons. These restrictions do not apply to medications.
You can request additional airport screening if desired for privacy. As long as you follow these rules, you shouldn’t have issues traveling domestically with properly stored and labeled Dupixent.
International Air Travel with Dupixent
Traveling internationally with a medication like Dupixent requires some additional preparation.
Research Entry Requirements for Dupixent at Your Destination
Some countries have restrictions on certain medications. Check embassy websites beforehand. Carry documentation of prescriptions, letters from your doctor, and pharmacy printouts. English translations may be required.
Apply for Travel Health Insurance with Medication Coverage
In case Dupixent gets lost/damaged or your prescription needs replacing while abroad, Read policy documents carefully.
Pack More Dupixent Than Needed
Bring an extra week’s supply in case of travel delays. Don’t check Dupixent or leave it in extreme temperatures (hot/cold). Carry it yourself in an approved travel cooler.
Request Refrigerated Storage for Layovers
Contact the airline and airport about refrigerated storage options for medication during long layovers. Bring a digital thermometer to monitor.
Carry Paperwork for Customs Declaration
Declare Dupixent properly on landing cards/customs forms. Keep necessary documentation (letters, prescriptions) accessible.
The key is advanced preparation. Follow airline policies for medical items, maintain the cold chain, and keep documents establishing your need to carry this medication.
While the extra effort is inconvenient, essential medication like Dupixent makes international sojourns possible for many. With careful steps, you can stay compliant while enjoying your global travels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling with Dupixent
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about traveling safely with Dupixent:
Should I keep Dupixent coolers in carry-on or checked luggage?
Always pack Dupixent in your carry-on bag, and never check your luggage. Temperatures in cargo holds can damage medication. Carry-on bags stay climate-controlled with you.
What if my Dupixent gets too warm briefly?
It happens! If Dupixent exceeds 77°F (25°C) for less than 12 hours, use it immediately or restore it to fridge temperatures. If overheated longer or exposed over 104°F (40°C), the medication may be compromised. When in doubt, consult your pharmacist.
Can I reuse ice/cool packs that came with my Dupixent?
No – they are designed for one-time use. Reusable packs should be labeled medical-grade by the manufacturer and approved by the FAA for flights. Disinfect regularly.
How do I arrange refrigeration at airports for connections?
Contact your airline and airport before traveling to inquire about medical-grade refrigerated storage options available during connections. Some larger hub airports cater specifically to medications like Dupixent. Come prepared with digital thermometers and cold packs.
Can I take prefilled Dupixent syringes on a plane?
Yes – carry them in your onboard hand luggage in the original labeled packaging. Notify airport security you have sharps. Bring a puncture-proof disposal container.
What paperwork should I have when traveling abroad with Dupixent?
Carry your prescription, a doctor’s note explaining your need for Dupixent, and possibly translations. Have an official pharmacy printout listing the medication name and active ingredients. Research entry regulations at your destination beforehand.
Does travel insurance cover lost or damaged Dupixent?
Read policy documents carefully, as coverage varies. Some travel health insurance provides emergency replacements for essential medication lost in transit or damaged due to travel incidents outside your control. Know the claims process before incidents occur.
Can I take Dupixent if I’m allergic to other medications?
Always consult your doctor first, as Dupixent may contain similar biological ingredients. Carry documentation of known medication allergies and reactions with your Dupixent paperwork in case of a medical emergency while traveling.
Is Dupixent approved for travel to all international destinations?
Most countries allow travelers to bring at least 90 days’ worth of necessary personal medications. However, some nations restrict biological treatments, controlled substances, injectables, or prefilled devices due to perceived misuse risks. Do your homework beforehand through embassies.
Conclusion
With sensible precautions like temperature-controlled storage, filing travel paperwork, and having documentation on hand, managing Dupixent while traveling internationally or by air is very feasible. Maintain open communication with healthcare providers, airlines, and security personnel during transit. By planning, the journeys you dreamed of need not be compromised just because this essential medication requires special handling during transport.
