Q: Which doctor should I consult for advice on use of expiry drugs?
A: A general practitioner (GP) must be first consulted, if you have consumed a drug that has expired and also if you have developed any symptoms after it consumption. A pharmacist too can be consulted for understanding the potential side effects of expired medications.
Q: Should one take expire medication say within a month after its expiry?
A: One must not use any expired medications as they could have become ineffective or could have become unsafe to consume, because of break-down of the drug into toxic substances.
Q: When should medications be disposed?
A: When the medication has expired or even when not expired but there is any change in appearance, color or smell — the medication must be discarded.
If a treatment schedule has been completed and the medication is no longer required nor would it be used on an as-needed basis, then the medication should be discarded even if it has not reached an expiry date.
