Checklist on how to store medicine

As stated by the US National Library of Medicine, the world’s largest medical library, there are certain steps that patients need to follow, in order to store their medicines properly. The way you store your medicines can affect how well they work.

• Heat, air, light and moisture may damage medicines. Store medicines in a cool, dry place. For example, store it in your dresser drawer or a kitchen cabinet away from the stove, sink and any hot appliances. You can also store medicine in a storage box, on a shelf, or in a closet.

• The heat and moisture from your shower, bath and sink may damage your medicine. Your medicines can become less potent, or they may go bad before the expiration date. Do not store it in a medicine cabinet in a bathroom.

• Keep medicine in its original container.

• Take the cotton ball out of the medicine bottle, because it pulls moisture into the bottle.

• Check the expiration date. Do not keep old or unused medicine around. Get rid of unused medicine safely and promptly. Do not flush your medicine down the toilet. This is bad for the water supply.

• Do not keep medicine in the glove compartment of your car.

• If you are travelling, keep medicine in your carry-on luggage. Ask your doctor for a copy of all your prescriptions. You may need this in case you lose, run out or damage your medicine.

• If you have diabetes, ask your doctor for a letter explaining your condition and providing a list of all your supplies. You are allowed to carry your medicine, blood glucose meter and lancet device on a plane.

Source: US National Library of Medicine