Posted by We know we’re at risk of heat stroke and dehydration when the temperature rises. Many individuals are unaware, however, that extreme temperatures might affect their prescriptions as well. Each drug has a certain temperature range in which it should be stored. If drugs are not maintained properly, they may lose their potency. In the summer heat, patients should pay strict attention to their prescriptions.
A leading capsule manufacturing company is sharing some useful tips about how to properly store and keep medications in summer –
Be aware of expiration dates for medications in summer
People frequently make the mistake of assuming their prescriptions would not expire or forgetting when they first opened the container. Medications do have an expiration date. Furthermore, if pharmaceuticals are exposed to heat, they will expire even sooner than the expiration date on the bottle.
The date on which multi-use inhalers or vials were first opened and used determines their expiration date. If you have specific queries about the expiration dates, speak with your pharmacist.
Pay attention to your medications’ specific rules
The majority of drugs must be kept at room temperature in a dry location. Medications, on the other hand, have their own set of restrictions. It’s crucial to consult the pharmacist about varied temperature needs and expiration dates, especially if you’re starting a new drug.
Pack your medications into a carry-on bag
The same rule applies if you’re flying: bring enough prescriptions for your vacation plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Another thing to keep in mind when travelling with drugs is to keep them in a carry-on bag. Your checked bags may be lost by the airline, and replenishing prescriptions while on vacation might be difficult.
Furthermore, you have no influence over how long your checked bags are left outside waiting to be put onto the plane. You can better regulate your meds’ exposure to the heat if you have them with you at all times.
Another trick is to bring the original pill bottle with you when travelling. If you’re asked about your prescriptions, you can show that you’re meant to be taking them.
Carry what medication you need for your trip, plus a few extra dosages
If you store an emergency inhaler or other drugs in your car, you should be aware of how rapidly they might expire when exposed to extreme temperatures on a frequent basis. It is preferable to keep drugs you might require in an emergency on your person rather than in the glove compartment.
Take only what you need for that day or trip if you’re carrying your prescriptions in the summer. In case of flight delays, it’s a good idea to bring enough medication to last a few extra days. This approach reduces the amount of time the medications are exposed to temperatures outside of your home. Similarly, if you know you’ll be in really hot weather and need to keep prescriptions cool, such as insulin, bring a cooler with you.
Avoid keeping medication in hot or humid places
In hot and humid weather, most drugs can break down, causing them to lose their potency. It’s best to keep your meds in a cold, dry location. Medications should not be kept in the bathroom or kitchen.
Be it gelatin capsules or any, it is important to understand that nature of medicines in summers.