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Health: What Happens When Drugs Expire?

By Stephanie Stahl

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- People depend on drugs every day, but what happens when they expire? You may not have to throw them away, which could save you some money.

Pain relievers are good for everything from a headache to a bad back.  So what happens, when you reach for some Ibuprofen, but it's expired. Can you still take it? Will it work?   "These should be stable for long periods of time," says Daniel Hussar, Professor of Pharmacy at the University of the Sciences. He says pharmacists and doctors can't officially recommend taking a drug past its prime, but:  "There are some medications that will be stable and retain their full effectiveness for even many years beyond the expiration date."  He says Ibuprofen, like most pain relievers, is safe and effective for years. That includes acetaminophen and prescription medications like Percocet.

While some medications can lose potency over time, one study from the FDA analyzed 122 over the counter and prescription drugs and found 88 percent "extended at least 1 year beyond their original expiration date."

Pills that are coated tend to last longer. Among the other medications that usually retain effectiveness past expiration include stomach remedies, sleep aides and antihistamines.

But there are some medications that don't last. Aspirin's active ingredient breaks down quickly and creates a slightly vinegar like odor.   Others that should never be taken past their expiration: antibiotics, epinephrine, drugs in liquid form, and prescriptions for chronic conditions. Pharmacist Lucas Berenbrok says, "It might not work as well to control your blood pressure. Or if you have diabetes, not work as well to control your blood sugar. That's where it can cause harm."

Whether or not drugs lose their effectiveness depends a lot on how they're stored. Experts say heat and humidity will cause medications to break down. That's why you should always keep them in a cool dry place.

Link:    www.usciences.edu

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