Med Shelf Life

[Luzi]

Does anyone know how long medicines can be kept? I have some old Interpet meds (numbers 8 & 9 - anti fungus & finrot and anti internal bacteria) which I need to use but i don't know if they're safe

 

[bricko]

How long have you had them?

Should be fine if they haven't been open but I would get new meds if they are over 18 months old to be safe.

Do they have a sell by / use by date on the bottle?

 

[Luzi]

These are from our last epedemic in 2006. They have no expiry date which is why i'm confused, but they have been open all that time so I think replacing them is my best bet.

 

[karin]

Just a note for consideration. While back I was tanking some medication that was expired. I did an extensive search, as they seemed to be working. Found a study by the US Military that said medications typically last 15 years or longer with the exception of liquid based meds (which have a shorter life-span) and sulfur based meds (sulfur-based actually become dangerous). Military was interested because they have to stock pile meds.

I would use expired meds for fish. The only thing is that over time they probably lose potency but I doubt they would be dangerous.

 

[Luzi]

Thanks Karin. I've sent my question to the manufacturer but I'mstill waiting for an answer. The med is liquid and it's been open for 4 years, so i'm not sure if it's become dangerous

 

[Luzi]

We refer to your e-mail, regarding the above products.

We would advise that before November 2008, it was not a requirement for an expiry date to be detailed on our products. However we would confirm that as long as the product has not been stored in direct sunlight or in very high temperatures, then the lifespan is indefinite

Since November 2008, as part of new regulations, an expiry date must now printed on the bottle, but the formulation has not changed.

there you go!

 

[chrisbassist]

I'm shocked they didn't tell you to buy more! If you bin it and get another they earn more money