Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN)–Medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, require caution when using them. And the Omani Ministry of Health, through its official account on the “Instagram” website, published some tips that should be taken into account.
What not to do
- Changing medication doses or times without consulting your doctor
- Using a medication prescribed for someone else
- Crush or break pills or capsules unless directed to do so by a doctor
- Using medicine that has expired
what should be done
- Take the medicine as directed by the doctor and pharmacist
- Tell your doctor regarding all the natural and pharmaceutical preparations you are taking
- Keep your prescriptions in one place, so it’s easy to keep track of what you’re taking
- Write the treatment, method of use and dosage on the package
And in the event that you have a cupboard full of medicines at home, and you are not sure which of these types has expired, and should be disposed of, the Gulf Health Council revealed, through its official account on the “Instagram” website, the period specified for the validity of each type of medicine following opening it.
The Gulf Health Council clarified that the validity of tablets and capsules in the original package is mentioned on the package, but the validity of the drug-regulating packages extends for two months.
The validity of the liquid or syrup is 6 months from the date of opening, unless less is recommended, while the validity of the ointment or cream ranges between 3 and 6 months.
The Gulf Health Council confirmed that the validity of eye drops extends for one month from the date of opening, while noting that the ear and nose drops/spray have a validity date of 3 months from the date of opening.
For inhalers, the expiry date is stated on the package.
How can medicines be stored properly?
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Check the expiration date of the medicine
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Keep the medicine in its original packaging:
Mostly keep in original packaging in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. It is very important that you check the storage instructions in the attached medicine leaflet.
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Below 25°C:
Some medicines need to be stored in a refrigerator (below 25°C), unless the required refrigeration is between 2°C and 8°C.
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Adhere to proper storage places:
During storage in the bathroom cabinet or car, medicines are exposed to high temperatures and humidity, which affect their effectiveness and may spoil before the expiration date.
