Do medications really expire when they say or is it just a way for you to buy more?

I have Advil cold & sinus and it expired 12/09. Should I continue to use, or buy more? (I have half the box still)

Re: Do medications really expire when they say or is it just a way for you to buy more?

I think they expire b/c they are not as potent (sp?) as they were when you first bought them . I would still use it,but that's me

Re: Do medications really expire when they say or is it just a way for you to buy more?

It depends on the medication. usually it is less effective after the expiration date, but still safe.

Ask your pharmacist.

ETS - it is never an excuse to make you buy more. Medications are too closely regulated by the FDA for that. It's about safety and/or efficacy, usually efficacy. Usually the expiration date is pretty generous (meaning as of 1/1/10, it's probably okay) -- BUT check with a pharmacist about any specific medication, including OTC ones.

Message edited 1/13/2010 2:24:18 PM.

Re: Do medications really expire when they say or is it just a way for you to buy more?

I don't even check most of the time

Re: Do medications really expire when they say or is it just a way for you to buy more?

It may lose potency over time- but not after just a month.

The drug doesn't know the date.
It's not like it just automatically stops working and turns into a placebo when the clock strikes midnight on the date printed on it.

I'd say if it was like a year or older than maybe.

But you should be good with it just expiring 12/09