expired prescriptions good for how long?

[requiemforadream]

I have some unfinished prescriptions from a few years ago that I never threw out. Just out of curiousity, how long do prescription drugs keep their potency?

[fudd]

It depends on the drug and how you store it. Medication should always be stored in a cool, dry, dark area (like a medicine cabinet). Factors such as light, moisture, and heat can result in decreased (or zero) efficacy. With drugs like pain medication, this is not such a big deal, and I've seen people (and clinics) use medication up to 6-12 months past the expiration date. I wouldn't try it with birth control though...

Originally Posted by requiemforadream

I have some unfinished prescriptions from a few years ago that I never threw out. Just out of curiousity, how long do prescription drugs keep their potency?

[Timber]

It totally depends on the drug. Some chemicals degrade faster than others.

[requiemforadream]

The medication I was wondering about is Adderall. I used to take it for ADHD. It's kind of like Ritalin. I think it's 2 years old. Would it have any effect on me now?

[stephbabie]

I would call your pharmacy and ask a pharmacist....that is there expertise. I wouldn't use it until speaking with a professional.