Before using any medicine, it is very common to check the expiry date. After checking the date, we often think it is safe to use. However, that’s not always the case.
After opening the medicine, its shelf life can change. We often overlook this, but it is a serious issue. You may not know, but it can affect your health more than you think. We at SDO Pharmed providing these basic yet essential information to keep you aware and healthy.
Let’s talk about why opened medicines need extra care. In this blog, we will talk about how you can keep using them safely after opening.
Why Shelf Life After Opening Is Important
The expiry date on a medicine pack is the most important thing. It tells you how long it remains stable if unopened. But once the seal is broken, the countdown begins. Air, moisture, and bacteria can start affecting the medicine.
Improper handling or poor storage after opening can:
- Reduce the medicine’s strength.
- Make it prone to contamination.
- Even turns it unsafe for your body.
According to the World Health Organization, a medicine’s stability after opening depends on things like the packaging, the type of preservatives used, and how it’s stored.
Follow the manufacturer’s Instructions First
The best and safest way to know how long to keep a medicine after opening is by reading what the manufacturer says. You’ll often find the instructions printed on the bottle. In most of the medicine boxes, you will find it in the outer box or inside the leaflet.
Keep an eye out for:
- Phrases like “use within 30 days after opening” on liquid antibiotics.
- Warnings about refrigeration or room temperature storage.
- Notes on discarding eye drops after a certain number of days.
As the NHS advises, the manufacturer’s guidance always comes first. If you can’t find the information, ask your pharmacist. It’s better to be sure than to guess.
Common Timeframes for Different Medicines
Every medicine is different. however, there are some general rules. these rules can help if you’re unsure.
- Liquid syrups often last 1 to 2 months after opening. However, watch for any odd smell or change in color.
- Eye drops should usually be discarded 28 days after opening. this way, you can avoid the risk of infection.
- Insulin pens or vials typically stay usable for 28 to 42 days at room temperature. It usually depends on the brand.
- Creams and ointments may last 3 to 6 months. But any change in texture or smell means it should be thrown away.
- Reconstituted antibiotics usually last 5 to 14 days. Most of them need refrigeration to stay effective.
Always remember, these are general timelines. What’s printed on your medicine’s label should be your main guide.
Signs That a Medicine Should Not Be Used
Sometimes, even if the medicine hasn’t reached its expiry or post-opening timeline, there are signs that it should be thrown away. Your senses can give you a clue that something’s not right.
Here are a few things that you need to look for:
- Any change in color. Especially if the medicine looks darker or cloudier.
- Strange or strong smells that weren’t there before.
- Cracked or broken tablets.
- Clumping powders or separating creams.
- Eye drops or liquids that look a little bit foggy.
If you notice any noticeable change, then you must be careful. The USFDA recommends not using these types of medicine. Especially those that show changes in appearance or smell.
Storage Tips to Make Medicines Last
How you store a medicine after opening is a very important step. It makes a big difference in how long it stays usable. Even if the label says that the medicine is good for 30 days, it might not stay so. Poor storage can spoil it much earlier.
Here are some smart habits to follow:
- Keep medicines in their original containers. This way, you can avoid confusion.
- Store them in a cool and dry place.
- Avoid keeping them in places near heat or direct sunlight.
- Avoid placing them in the kitchen or bathroom.
- Don’t move tablets or capsules into unlabelled boxes or bags.
Are you unsure about where to store a particular medicine? No worries! Your pharmacist can guide you.
Refrigerated Medicines: A Special Case
Some medicines need to be refrigerated. Especially medicines like insulin or certain types of eye drops. But even here, you cannot keep it anywhere. Not all storage spots are equal.
- The ideal fridge temperature is between 2°C and to 8°C.
- Avoid keeping medicines in the fridge door. Here, the temperature fluctuations are common.
- Never freeze them. Freezing can completely ruin their structure and effect.
- Take them out only when needed.
- After use, return them to the fridge right away.
The WHO highlights how sensitive these medicines are, so following the right process is crucial.
When It’s Time to Dispose of a Medicine
Disposing of expired medicine the wrong way can harm the environment. So, here’s what you should do:
- Do not flush medicines down the toilet or sink.
- Avoid tossing them into household trash.
- Take them to a pharmacy that accepts expired medicines.
- Look for community take-back programs in your area.
The FDA recommends proper disposal of medicines. This is to prevent accidental poisoning or misuse and to protect nature.
Disclaimer: This article is for general knowledge. If you ever have any doubts, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.
Closing Tip
Storing your medicine properly isn’t difficult, but it does require attention. You can label your medicine boxes with purchase and expiry dates or maintain a small medicine diary to track everything.
When in doubt, don’t guess. Straightly speak to a pharmacist. They can guide you on how to store specific medicines. They will also guide you on how to handle expired ones. Keeping your medicines safe means keeping your health in check.
