Medicines frequently used at home can lose their effect or safety under incorrect storage conditions. Therefore, it is vital to store medicines under the correct conditions and regularly check their expiration dates.
Where Should Medicines Be Stored?
Many people store their medicines in the bathroom or kitchen. However, these areas are not suitable for the chemical structure of medicines.
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Bathroom: Humidity after a shower can damage the structure of medicines.
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Kitchen: Heat from the stove and oven can cause the active ingredients of medicines to deteriorate over time.
The Most Correct Storage Condition:
Medicines should be stored in closed cabinets, away from direct sunlight, at room temperature (between 16-25°C), in dry environments, and out of the reach of children.
Why Is the Expiration Date Important?
The effectiveness of expired medicines may decrease, and the treatment may not yield the expected result. Especially the dates of critical medicines such as antibiotics, heart medications, and insulin must be checked. Additionally, eye drops, syrups, and creams should be consumed within the period specified in the prospectus after opening.
Herbal Supplements Can Also Deteriorate
Vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements also contain chemical components and can deteriorate over time. The storage conditions and expiration dates of these products should be approached with the same sensitivity.
Check Your Medicine Cabinet Regularly
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Review your medicine cabinet at regular intervals.
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Strictly do not use products that have changed in color, odor, or consistency.
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Do not consume expired medicines.
Important Note: What Should We Do with Expired Medicines?
The disposal of expired medicines is subject to special procedures. Pharmacies cannot take back expired medicines from citizens because they are subject to legal regulations and are obliged to pay fees for the disposal process.
To prevent expired medicines from harming the environment and groundwater, these products should not be mixed with household waste. The most correct method is to deliver these medicines to the "Waste Medicine Collection Boxes" placed by municipalities at certain points.
Medical Review and Approval:
Chief Pharmacist Barış Kulan
We wish you healthy days.
