Expired Medicines Are Not Only Useless: Which Drugs Become Dangerous.

According to ТСН: After the expiration date, most medications lose their effectiveness. Using expired drugs, especially life-critical ones, can pose a danger to life and health.

How to Check the Expiration Date of Medicines

The expiration date of medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements is indicated by manufacturers on the packaging. This date can be found on ampoules, blister packs of tablets and capsules, bottles, as well as suppositories.

The storage conditions of the medications are also specified on the packaging. Failure to comply with these conditions may lead to premature ineffectiveness of the product.

Some medications not only lose effectiveness but can also be dangerous:

• insulin and other hormonal drugs necessary for diabetes control;

• nitroglycerin – may lose its effect during angina;

• epinephrine (EpiPen) – decreased effectiveness during severe allergic reactions can be fatal;

• vaccines and other biopreparations – sensitive to storage conditions;

• eye drops – risk of bacterial contamination and infections due to loss of sterility;

• liquid antibiotics – may reduce their activity;

• syrups and solutions – lose effectiveness faster due to degradation of active ingredients.

What Are the Health Risks

Taking expired medications can lead to various unwanted consequences, including poisoning, acute allergic reactions, and complications of diseases. Using expired ointments can cause allergies, skin irritation, or even burns. It is also advisable to avoid using expired eye drops and contact lens solutions, as their preservatives lose their properties over time. Special attention should be paid to antibiotics.

Managing the expiration dates of medicines is an important aspect of healthcare. By following the recommended guidelines, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from potentially dangerous consequences of using outdated medical products. Always check expiration dates and storage conditions to maintain the effectiveness of treatment.