Can I take Naproxen and Diazepan (Generic Valium) even though they expired in September 2006?

Question

I got prescribed Naproxen and Diazepan for back pain a while ago. I am experiencing the same back pain again and want to take them as they helped me before, but it says on the label "discard after september 2006" does anyone know if I can take them..will they harm me? or just lose effectivness? thankyou!

Answer 1

Medication loses most its strenght after the given expiration date. But, that date is not exactly accurate. You could take it, the worst it could happen is you'll take medication with an 'no longer active' active ingredient. It won't harm you, but there is a good chance it will still heal you.

Answer 2

As a pharmacist, when I'm asked this question I have to err on the side of caution and say throw them away. Naproxen and diazepam are not known to deteriorate into a harmful state, but they will lose their potency over time.

Each state's pharmacy board determines whether a discard date is required on the prescription label. Most states mandate 1 year (or less). This is an arbitary date although it is based on studies that have shown that regardless of storage conditions most drugs will still be potent after one year. However, this is for the most stable dosage forms, tablets and capsules.

I rarely dispense a product that expires in less than a year. The only way to know the actual expiration date is to see the original stock bottles.

Answer 3

Some medications weakens after expiration dates, others - due to decomposition reactions - completely change their chemical composition and turn in to deadly ones.

2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl) propanoic acid (Naproxen) is one of them.

I don't know about Diazepan, but it can absorb into plastic, and therefore diazepam solution is not stored in plastic bottles or syringes. It can absorb into plastic bags and tubing used for intervenous infusions. Absorption appears to be dependent on several factors such as temperature, concentration, flow rates and tube length. Diazepam should not be administered if a precipitate has formed and will not dissolve.

Answer 4

They do many expensive tests on medication before they decide on an expiry date for a reason. While you may not die, it's not a great idea to take the risk. Sometimes things lose their effectiveness, sometimes harmful substances build up to toxic levels, etc. There are many different reasons for the expiry date being whatever it is, but remember just that, it's there for a reason!

Answer 5

When in doubt about any medications, (or anything else you're thinking of actually ingesting into your system), contact either your dr., or an authorized, knowledegable source..in this case, a drug store pharmacist might answer your question responsibly.

Personally...I believe taking expired-dated drugs is pointless, because either way: whether it be dangerous or ineffective, I wouldn't get the relief I seek.

Answer 6

You shouldn't in my opinion but ask a pharmacist but ask if you have to take it , drugs are given for a specific reason. Talk to the doctor who prescribe it.

Answer 7

You should not take chances with medication . If it says discard after Sept 2006......this is exactly what it says.

Do not take unnecessary risks.

Answer 8

There is a reason for expiration dates. Throw them out and go back to a doctor for more. Do NOT attempt to "make up" for their expirations by taking more. -Brian, Registered Nurse.

Answer 9

I take mine up to one year after the expiration with no adverse effects.

Answer 10

I think they just lose their effectiveness....I tried taking some older pain meds once and they just didn't work as well.