The primary goals are to adhere to the regular treatment schedule and to avoid problems.
Step 1: Determine if the travel plans require access to the medication during the trip. A short trip that is completed within the interval between doses is the simplest situation.
Step 2: If one or more doses of etanercept is needed, then plan for the safe transport of the medication.
(1) Make sure that the drug is clearly labeled, preferably within original containers.
(2) Make sure that syringes and drug vials are protected from physical damage.
(3) The drug must be kept at 2 to 8°C. This means that some sort of cold pack is required.
(4) Make sure that the drug does not freeze.
(5) Take the drug and injection supplies with you under your direct control (carry-on luggage, etc) if possible.
(6) Carry a letter from the prescribing physician documenting medical need.
(7) Notify security personnel about the presence of the medication, needles and syringes.
(8) Carry a suitable sharps container for disposal of used needles.
Step 3: Plan other aspects affecting health while traveling.
(1) Avoid vaccinations that use a live virus as the immunizing agent.
(2) Assess the risk for traveler's diarrhea and other infectious diseases.
(3) Identify healthcare providers and facilities along the travel route.
A free travel pack for transporting the medication is available from the company (1-888-4ENBREL).
