What is the shelf-life of promethazine (Phenergan) if kept constantly in the refrigerator? I have some that is just over a year old and has been in my fridge. Should I pitch it or keep it, and if I keep it, how long is it good for?
2006-10-15 10:29:42 · 4 answers · asked by lyfsavr1 3 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
Promethazine does not need to be refrigerated for starters.
The shelf-life starts when the product is made. It will sit in the manufacturers warehouse, then the wholesalers, then the distributors, then the pharmacy before you get the medicine.
Had you asked when you got the medicine, they could have told you when it expired. At this point there is no way of knowing, short of contacting the manufacturer and providing them with the lot number (which you probably don't have either, since only a few states require it to be included on the label).
One year later, there is a reasonable chance that it is still good. If it has expired, it isn't going to cause trouble, it just won't work that good. Unless you got somebody needing it right now, I'd just chuck it.
2006-10-16 14:55:36 · answer #1 · answered by jloertscher 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A couple of questions...Is this the syrup that you have? I'm assuming it is. What color is it? What are you using it for? Is it just promethazine or is there something else combined with the promethazine? Can you get a new prescription for this instead of using the old medication? Have you started any new medications (OTC or prescription) since you were prescribed this? Any new illnesses or disease states since you were prescribed this? How about any herbal meds? If you have any new conditions or medications you are taking, check for interactions before taking the medication again.
Some of the reference material on Micromedex lists the liquid injectable forms as losing only 10% potency over a year's time. There was nothing specific about the oral syrups. The tablets have been known to change color over time without losing potency, but no info on the liquid on my first quick glance. If push came to shove and you could not get a new prescription for some reason, I think you would be safe using the Phenergan. Usually any tablet is given an expiration of one year from the date of dispensing and liquids/syrups are much less, depending on the constituents. This is mainly for potency reasons and not breakdown products.
2006-10-15 11:31:19 · answer #2 · answered by DH 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Prescription drugs usually have a date listed to toss it after about a year. However, most meds can be used if stored properly for about 2 years. If it's an oral or suppository you should probably still be able to use it. Liquid form is different. To be safe thought, ask your pharmacist for sure.
2006-10-15 10:54:57 · answer #3 · answered by Michael 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Look for the expiration date....all controlled substances have the date stamped in the packaging.
2006-10-15 10:39:20 · answer #4 · answered by jidwg 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋