The expiration date of a drug is not equal to its expiration date! Collect this "preservation secret"

How long can the medicines at home be preserved once they are opened?

"To clarify a common misunderstanding: the expiration date of a drug is not the same as its expiration date. The expiration date refers to the longest period during which the drug can maintain its quality and efficacy under specific storage conditions before it is opened. The expiration date, on the other hand, refers to the period after the drug is opened during which it can still maintain its effectiveness and safety under proper storage." Fang Lijuan, a pharmacist at the Chao News Qianbao Health Station and the Western Pharmacy of the Liuxia Street Community Health Service Center in Xihu District, Hangzhou, said that it is particularly important for medication safety to clarify the correct storage and use period of the drug after it is opened. Let's learn about the "shelf life" of various drugs after they are opened.

1. Preparations for eyes, nose and ears

These preparations are usually sensitive and easily contaminated. Unless otherwise specified in the instructions, they should not be used for more than 4 weeks after opening. When using, keep the bottle mouth clean to avoid cross infection.

2. Tablets and capsules in bottles

For bottled tablets and capsules, the shelf life after opening is generally no more than 6 months. When storing, be sure to keep the bottle cap tightly closed and place in a dry and cool place.

3. Bag-packed medicines

Children's medications often need to be taken in divided doses, and the remaining portion should be used up as soon as possible, generally within 24 hours. Granules, dry suspensions, powders, etc. are susceptible to moisture, and the shelf life after opening is generally 1 month (granules/powders) or 14 days (suspensions). If the drug is found to absorb moisture, clump, soften, etc., it should be discarded immediately.

4. Plate-packed medicine and small-bottle oral solution

This type of medicine is relatively stable because it is individually sealed. As long as the blister or bottle is not damaged, it can generally be stored until the expiration date. When taking it in divided doses, be sure to keep the remaining medicine sealed.

5. External ointment

After opening, the ointment can be stored at room temperature for 2 months. Pay attention to whether the ointment has particles, dissolution, water, odor, etc. If found, stop using it immediately.

6. Syrup

After opening, the syrup can be stored at room temperature for 1-3 months. When using, use a measuring cup or dropper to measure accurately to avoid contaminating the bottle mouth. During storage, pay attention to the syrup for bubbles, precipitation, discoloration, odor, etc.

7. Oral solution, suspension, emulsion

This type of medicine can be stored at room temperature for 2 months if the bottle mouth and bottle cap are not contaminated. If stratification, consolidation, precipitation occurs and cannot be restored to uniformity, or mold, odor, discoloration, etc. occur, it cannot be used any more.

Medication Tips

1. Regular inspection: Clean the family medicine cabinet every 3-6 months and dispose of expired or spoiled medicines in time.

2. Correct storage: Store the medicine strictly according to the requirements on the drug instructions and mark the opening time after unsealing.

3. Observe carefully: Check the appearance, smell, color, properties, etc. of the medicine carefully before use. If any abnormality is found, stop using it immediately.