As we usher in April, it's significant to acknowledge that it's Medication Safety Month—a pivotal time to focus on the importance of proper medication use, particularly for our senior community. In light of this, it's crucial to understand the implications of using expired medications. Use this guide to understand what happens when medications expire, why it's unsafe to use them, and how to dispose of them properly.
Navigating the world of medications can be complex, especially for seniors who typically manage multiple prescriptions. This guide will help to demystify the subject of medication expiration, providing clear, practical information to ensure the safety and well-being of our seniors. Explore the crucial aspects of medication safety.
What to Know About Medication Expiration Dates
Medication expiration dates act as the pharmaceutical company's guarantee of the medication's safety and full potency until that date. These dates are estimated based on rigorous testing and established regulatory guidelines. Using medications beyond these dates could expose you to potential risks, especially for seniors with already compromised health conditions.
What Happens to Medications After They Expire?
When medications expire, they may not maintain the same level of effectiveness due to the breakdown of chemical compounds. This deterioration could result in reduced potency, implying that the medicine may not work as intended. Some expired medications may change their physical or chemical properties, leading to unwanted side effects. In some cases, expired medications can harbor bacteria, further jeopardizing one's health.
Common Medications Used by Seniors and Their Expiration Effects
Seniors often use medications for chronic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, arthritis, and Alzheimer's. Blood pressure medications, for instance, might lose their effectiveness after expiration, potentially leading to uncontrolled hypertension. Similarly, expired cholesterol or diabetes medications might not maintain their efficacy, which could lead to a spike in cholesterol or blood sugar levels, respectively. Arthritis and Alzheimer's medications might not only lose their effectiveness but could also change composition, leading to unforeseen complications.
The Dangers of Using Expired Medications
The reduced effectiveness of expired medications could pose significant risks, especially for seniors managing chronic conditions. Underperforming medicines could lead to the progression of these conditions and adverse health events. Additionally, the chemical changes in expired medications could lead to unexpected side effects or adverse reactions. For instance, certain expired antibiotics can become toxic and lead to severe kidney damage. Using ineffective antibiotics can potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance—a serious public health concern.
Proper Disposal of Expired Medications
Disposing of medications properly is just as critical as using them correctly. It is not advisable to simply throw them in the trash or flush them down the toilet, as it can lead to environmental pollution. The Food and Drug Administration recommends mixing medications with an unappealing substance like cat litter, dirt, or used coffee grounds and placing the mixture in a sealed container. Then, dispose of it in the household trash.
For seniors living in Michigan, many pharmacies, hospitals, and community-based programs offer medication take-back options. Contact your local waste management authorities for more information.
Get Help Maintaining the Safety of Your Medications
Awareness and management of medication safety are crucial, especially for our senior community managing various health conditions. Observing Medication Safety Month, let's remember to inspect our medications and dispose of any expired ones promptly and safely.
Senior Helpers Richmond, MI, can provide valuable assistance in managing your medication safety for those residing in New Baltimore, Macomb, Port Huron, Utica, and nearby. Our team is available to answer your queries and guide you through the complexities of medication management. Your health and well-being are our priority. Please don't hesitate to contact us for the support you and your loved ones deserve.