Insulin and airlines

[trekkie2]

first time traveling with insulin and insulin pump. I know to take my humalog and supplies on my carryon, however I read somewhere that insulin should not be run through x ray as it destabilizes it. Is this true and if so , what do I do then. this is my first airline flight and I am a bit confused about the process. thanks for the assist.

 

[Vijoge]

first time traveling with insulin and insulin pump. I know to take my humalog and supplies on my carryon, however I read somewhere that insulin should not be run through x ray as it destabilizes it. Is this true and if so , what do I do then. this is my first airline flight and I am a bit confused about the process. thanks for the assist.

According to LillyDiabetes.com:

Can my insulin pass through the X-ray machine at the airport?
It is important that you take your insulin wherever you go. Of course, that means taking it with you when you travel. Under normal conditions, insulin can safely pass through X-ray machines at airport terminals. If the insulin remains in the path of the X-ray longer than normal or if it is repeatedly exposed to X-ray, watch out! This can affect the stability of your insulin. Here's another tip: Insulin never should be placed in checked baggage. Passenger baggage stored in cargo holds is subject to powerful X-rays. It also could be affected by severe changes in pressure and temperature. Be sure to inspect your insulin before injecting each dose. If you notice anything unusual about the appearance of your insulin or you notice that your insulin needs are changing, call your doctor.

 

[Selket]

This article seems to say that the Lilly statement was not based on research but more "CYA" (cover your backside): http://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/conquest/0304-xray-exposure.htm
I thought it was an interesting assessment of the Lilly statement.

We have traveled with William's insulin several times through the airport screening done for carry-on bags and not had a problem. I put all of his diabetic supplies which contain liquids over 3 ounces into one carry-on and I declare this to the TSA screener as I approach them. I do *not* try to package his insulin and cold packs, juice, and other supplies into the quart baggie thing. I just tell them that THIS case has diabetic supplies containing liquids/gels over 3 ounces. I do put our personal tolietry items into the quart baggies - just not his medical supplies and I put those in the little bins like everyone else. Sometimes they do open the case that has the diabetic supplies and look through it after it goes through the xray. I have never had a problem yet!

We also tell them that he wears and insulin pump and so far he has been able to walk through the metal detector without setting it off. One time they chose to hand-wand him rather than have him go through. We've not had any problems going through the usual metal detectors.