Is it ok take take prescription medicine from a previous sickness?

Question

I had a throat infection about a year ago and now I have another throat infection. My doctor prescribed me to take Amoxicillin 500mg.

To reiterate my question in simpler terms, do you think its safe for me to retake the prescription?

Answer 1

No, no NO!

First of all, you should always finish your antibiotics when they are prescribed! If you don't, it makes the infection stronger to the antibiotic!

Second, you might have a different type of infection this time around.. you should always see your doctor, and never self medicate (if you finish your antibiotics, you shouldn't be able to!)

Third, the drugs COULD be expired. It's not probable.. but it's possible.

And on a seperate note, if you have any medications you are no longer taking.. you should take them into your local pharmacy for proper disposal. You don't want anything to fall into the wrong hands!

Answer 2

It is NEVER ok. Antibiotics lose their potency over time. A bacteria can still be present after you start to feel better. It is important to finish an entire prescription in order to kill the bacteria.

Answer 3

Sure, studies have shown that most medicines are good for years after expiration date. There is no use throwing out good medicine. Exceptions are liquid medicines and nitroglycerin.
Here is an article with the studies:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/05150/512789.stm

Answer 4

in the event that they are no longer expired yet they are nevertheless solid to take. they are in many situations exceedingly on the careful area with those experation dates, so in many situations the medicine could nevertheless be solid a pair months after the experation date.

Answer 5

Ask your doctor, and check the dates on your prescription
dont take if expired