can you use medicines after the expiration date.?

Answer 1

CAN you? Sure you can. But a more important question to ask is SHOULD you?

Generally speaking, meds taken after the expiration date would not be harmful...so if you have nothing else in the medicine cabinet, it couldn't hurt to use them.

But after the expiration date, meds generally would start losing their potency, so it is likely they may not be as effective as a fresh supply. Of course, it makes a big difference how much time has elapsed...are you talking a few months, or a few years after the expiration date?

Also, if the meds have been exposed to high temperature, moisture, and in some cases even light, that would also decrease their quality and make me less confident about using them.

I've heard from a reliable source that the expiration dates on medicine labels are conservative times...meaning, there is likely no need to use the exp. date as a absolute deadline. But if there are any doubts, I would recommend calling your pharmacist for advice regarding where to draw the line.

Answer 2

Yes you can but their potency may be less (meaning you'll need to take more for the same effect), & if a medication is more than 3 years past its expiration throw it away...don't flush it as then it gets in to the water systems and plays all kinds of havoc on the environmental system.

Answer 3

You can but its not very affective 2-3 months is OK.
After that throw it away.
That's prescriptions as far as aspirins and bottled medicine like cold medicine maybe 6 months.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

I wouldn't. They print expiration dates for a reason.

Answer 5

You shouldn't. Their composition can change - and they can become less, or even more potent. You should throw old medicine away and get a new bottle or prescription.

Answer 6

no

Answer 7

NO