i'm planning on using some cough formula to help a common cold that i have but its a couple of years old, so i'm wondering if its still good to use or if its non-effective since its old?
2006-08-15 19:22:43 · 7 answers · asked by . 6 in Health ➔ Alternative Medicine
I don't think they really expire! I use expired meds all the time! I think it's a waste of money, and the manufacturers put exp dates on there so that you can throw it away, and you have to buy more ...and waste more of your money. According to this article, there's nothing wrong with "expired" meds!
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/460159
2006-08-15 19:42:45 · answer #1 · answered by MiLuv 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There should be an expiration date on it. Usually, it's "good" for a while after the expiration date.
Although, I subscribe to the theory that mixed chemicals are mixed chemicals regardless of the age.
The only thing "I" believe you'd have to worry about is the alcohol further fermenting. I believe the drug companies just like to make sure you're going to keep buying more, and that is why there are expiration dates.
2006-08-16 02:29:47 · answer #2 · answered by drizzt_234 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
More importantly, what are the specific symptoms you want to relieve?
Cough? Take an antitussive, like the cough formula you have, but as others have said, check the expiration date.
Sneezing and/or runny nose? Take an antihistamine.
Fever? Take a anitpyretic like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
Stuffy nose and/or sinus pressure? Take a decongestant like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed).
The natural options mentioned (like honey, lemon, etc.) are good safe options, too.
2006-08-16 02:32:36 · answer #3 · answered by firemedicgm 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It it is prescription cough formula, throw it away. The ingredients degrade with time and could become toxic.
2006-08-16 02:29:47 · answer #4 · answered by moekittykitty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why dont you just have some hot tea with lemon and honey.. better for you natural and works about the same as that old medicine, or new stuff for that matter.
2006-08-16 02:28:40 · answer #5 · answered by rcsanandreas 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check the expiration date. If its past, throw it away.
2006-08-16 02:26:50 · answer #6 · answered by tattooed_babe24 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with tattooed_babe. :)
2006-08-16 02:28:50 · answer #7 · answered by Living the Alaskan life 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋