General guidelines
If the instructions say that the medication should be stored at room temperature, it means from 59-77 °F, in a cool place from 46-59 °F, and in a cold place from 35-46 °F (in the refrigerator).
Storage in a dark place means protection of the medication from daylight.
A dry place implies a relative humidity of no more than 60 %. Do not keep the medication in the bathroom. Exposure to high temperatures and moisture can not only reduce their effectiveness but also make them dangerous.
Most suppositories, solutions for injection, eye drops, and liquid ointments are stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 35-46 °F, to avoid freezing.
If you notice that the medication has changed color, smell, taste, or consistency, do not take it. Immediately discard tablets that stick, crack, or become harder or softer than usual.
Different medications, different conditions
- Tablets and gelatin capsules should be stored in a dry and cool place. An airtight plastic container is ideal.
- Preparations for injection are stored in a dry and cool place, including some being stored in the refrigerator. Ampoules (small vials of liquid) should be protected from any damage.
- Syrups are kept in tightly closed bottles in a place inaccessible to sunlight. Place perishable preparations in the refrigerator.
Do not allow evaporation liquid medications to evaporate, as this will increase the concentration of the active ingredient and possibly cause a higher dosage than prescribed when taken.
Suppositories remain solid at room temperature and melt at body temperature. They should be placed in a dry and cool place to prevent changes in consistency and microbial multiplication.
Suspension medications can change, as their particles have the properties of settling, combining, and increasing in size. In addition, the solid and liquid phases of the medication can combine. Powder or granules for the preparation of the medication can be kept at room temperature, and the prepared solution can be kept in the refrigerator. As a rule, suspensions after dilution are stored for only a few days.
Medicinal herbs should be stored in a glass or ceramic container, a plastic container, a cardboard box, or a cloth bag. A dry room and a temperature of 50-64 °F is suitable for them.
Special care
Several medications are particularly susceptible to external exposure:
Insulin, anticonvulsants, and anticoagulants should be treated with special care, as small changes in the dosage of these medications can seriously affect the condition of the body. Insulin should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature of 35-46 °F. However, open vials can be left at room temperature as this will make injections more comfortable.
- Antibiotics that have started to degrade can cause damage to the stomach or kidneys.
- Probiotics and prebiotics should be stored in the refrigerator at 35-39 °F, otherwise, the concentration of beneficial bacteria in them will decrease significantly. Liquid probiotics are more sensitive, while dry probiotics are more resistant and can be kept out of the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Creams with hydrocortisone in the heat may become useless.
- Hormonal pills are very sensitive to temperature changes.
- Diagnostic test strips that are used to determine blood sugar levels, pregnancy, or ovulation can begin to "lie" because of humidity.
The instructions for each medication indicate the permissible storage conditions, including after opening the package. If they are not observed, it is better to throw away the medication and not risk your health.
