April is Medication Safety Month, so it's a great time to spotlight an often-overlooked issue in medication safety: expired medications. Many of us pay little heed to the expiration dates printed on our medication bottles. Being aware of what happens if your medication expires and the potential implications for your health can make a big difference. Let's look at what expiration dates mean and shed light on the dangers of using expired medications.
What Does an Expiration Date on Medication Mean?
The expiration date of a medication is a marker set by the manufacturer. Up to that date, the medication is guaranteed to be safe and effective. After the expiration date, the manufacturer will no longer guarantee the medication. If a medication is past its expiration date, err on the side of caution and discard it properly.
What Happens to Medications When They Expire?
Medications can go through significant changes over time, including:
- Changes in consistency. A medication that was once a tablet could crumble easily or become clumpy. Liquids might separate or become thicker.
- Color or form alterations. The vibrant color of a capsule might fade, or an ointment might develop discoloration.
- Unpleasant odors. Expired medications can sometimes develop an off-putting smell.
Even if a medication appears unchanged, its internal structure might have broken down, leading to a significant decline in potency. A weakened drug will not be as effective in treating your condition, potentially causing health risks as it fails to fight off infections or manage chronic illnesses.
The Dangers of Using Expired Medications
Using expired medications could be riskier than most people imagine. As the drug's potency decreases, its impact on the targeted health condition diminishes. This is a serious concern for those who depend on life-sustaining or symptom-controlling drugs. Taking the same dosage of less potent medication may also prompt some to increase their dose, leading to unforeseen side effects. Additionally, certain expired medications can break down into harmful compounds, potentially causing adverse reactions.
Seniors often rely on certain medications, like hypertensive drugs, statins for cholesterol, or medications for diabetes and arthritis. Many of these medications have expiration dates. For instance, insulin for diabetes, which is often stored in the refrigerator, can lose its effectiveness after the expiration date, endangering blood sugar management. Similarly, expired anti-arthritic drugs might worsen the condition by not treating inflammation effectively.
Proper Disposal of Expired Medications
Disposing of expired medications ensures these medications don't harm others, especially children, pets, or the environment. Never flush medications down the toilet or throw them in the garbage unless the instructions specify otherwise. Most pharmacies and health centers provide take-back programs or medication disposal units. If these options are unavailable, mix the medicines with an unpalatable substance like coffee grounds or dirt, place it in a sealed bag, and throw it in the household trash. Remember to scratch all personal information on the prescription label before discarding containers.
Need Help Managing Medications at Home?
An expiration date on your medication is more than a number on a bottle. It is a critical health and safety measure. Ignoring these expiration dates can lead to unnecessary, avoidable health risks. We urge everyone, particularly seniors, to take medication safety seriously.
At Senior Helpers Chandler-Gilbert, we provide support with medication management, helping to ensure our client's well-being. Contact us if you or your loved ones reside in Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Sunlakes, or Santan and need assistance managing medications or other aspects of daily living.