As a pharmacist, I know that properly storing your medication can be just as important as taking it correctly. Whether prescription medication or over-the-counter products, how you store them can affect their potency and safety. In this article, I’ll share some tips on how to store your pharmacy medicine properly to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Read the label
The first step to properly storing your medication is to read the label. The label contains important information on how to store the medication, including the temperature range, whether it needs to be kept in the refrigerator or not, and the expiration date. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure the medication remains effective and safe.
For example, some medications must be kept at room temperature, while others need to be kept in a cool, dry place. Storing medication at the wrong temperature can cause it to break down or lose effectiveness. Additionally, certain medications, such as insulin and antibiotics, may need refrigeration to maintain their potency.
It’s also important to check the expiration date before consuming any medication. Expired medication can be ineffective or harmful, as it may have degraded over time or changed the chemical composition.
Store away from sunlight and moisture
Another important consideration when storing medication is to keep them away from sunlight and moisture. Sunlight can cause the medication to break down and lose its effectiveness, while moisture can cause the medication to degrade and grow bacteria or fungi.
It’s best to store medication in a dry, dark place such as a cabinet or drawer. Avoid storing medication in the bathroom or kitchen, as these areas are often humid and prone to temperature fluctuations. Ensure the medication is stored in its original packaging or airtight containers. This helps to protect the medication from exposure to moisture and sunlight. You can get more information about how to store medicine from the memorial pharmacy.Â
Keep medication out of reach of children and pets
Keeping medication out of reach of children and pets is essential to prevent accidental ingestion. Children and pets may mistake medication for candy or food, leading to serious health consequences.
Store medication in a high cabinet or drawer inaccessible to children and pets. Additionally, ensure that medication is properly labeled, and keep a record of when you started taking the medication and when it should be finished. This helps to prevent accidental overdose or double-dosing.
If you have unused medication, dispose of it properly. Do not flush medication down the toilet or throw it in the trash; this can pollute the environment and harm wildlife. Instead, take unused medication to a drug take-back program or follow the FDA’s guidelines for safe disposal.
Do not store medication in extreme temperatures
Storing medication in extreme temperatures can cause them to lose effectiveness and become dangerous. Avoid storing medication in areas where the temperature can fluctuate drastically, such as a car or garage. Extreme temperatures can cause the medication to break down and become less potent or even toxic.
If you need to travel with medication, store it in a cooler bag or insulated container, especially if it needs refrigeration. This will help to maintain the medication’s potency and safety.
Take medication as prescribed
Finally, taking medication as prescribed is essential to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, including the dosage and frequency of the medication.
If you miss a dose, do not double up on the medication unless instructed by your doctor. This can lead to an overdose or other adverse effects. If you are unsure how to take your medication or have questions, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Also, do not share medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Medication prescribed to one person may not be safe or effective for another person.
Conclusion
Properly storing your pharmacy medicine is essential to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Make sure to read the label, store medication away from sunlight and moisture, keep it out of reach of children and pets, avoid storing medication in extreme temperatures, and take medication as prescribed. By following these tips, you can ensure that your medication remains effective and safe.
