The expiration date is a kind of guarantee that the potency of the drug will last at least until that date. “It is imposed by regulatory agencies on manufacturers,” explains Professor Drickey. “They are asked to ensure the quality, efficacy and safety of the drug over a period of time. This can range from 1 to 3 years (more rarely 5 years) from the date of manufacture. » Thus, during this period, the organoleptic characteristics of the product, i.e. its composition, its color or even its taste, should not change. “If the drug is stored properly by the user,” the pharmacologist takes time to clarify, “because temperature variations or even exposure to light or moisture can alter the quality of the drug. That is why it is not recommended to store it in the bathroom. »
Do not drink liquids
But once the expiration date has passed, is the drug less effective or even dangerous? Actually, it depends on the drug. Some will be sensitive and others less so. “Liquid forms are very sensitive. It contains preservatives which spoil quickly. So using it beyond the time frame carries the risk of spreading the bacteria.”
Thus, under the term “liquid forms”, we find:
Syrup eye drops injectable medications as well as creams and ointments that may dissolve. What about solid forms?
Again it depends. “Some are relatively resistant, for example paracetamol or codeine. On the other hand, there is no question of exceeding the expiration limit for a product used in PrEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis in the context of HIV. Antibiotics, contraceptive pills, anti-asthmatics, same for treating hypertension…”.
To summarize, Professor Dreesi explains that ideally, it is better not to take expired medicines. Daily use, used for small “sores”, does not cause many problems beyond a few weeks, before being cleared for freely available drugs (except liquid forms). On the other hand, for prescription products, there are real risks of abuse. They may lose their effectiveness and/or become harmful.
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