Heat Does Not Spare Medicine: How to Store Medications Properly to Prevent Degradation.

The hot and humid weather of summer increases the risk of degradation not only for food but also for medications and supplements. When medications degrade, their efficacy can decrease, and in some cases, they can even become harmful. Let’s take a closer look at how to safely store medications and supplements.

 

Signs of Medication and Supplement Degradation

Here are some ways to check if your medication has degraded.

• Color Change: White tablets turning yellowish or pink.
• Shape Change: Tablets becoming swollen or cracked.
• Texture Change: Powdered medications clumping or softgel contents leaking and becoming sticky.
• Odor Change: A different smell than when first received.

If you notice any of these signs, do not use the medication and consult a pharmacist.

 

In the hot and humid environment of summer, the risk of medication and supplement degradation is high.

 

 

Loss of Medication Efficacy in Hot and Humid Environments

Hot and humid conditions can reduce the efficacy of medications. The following types of medications are particularly vulnerable.

• Vitamins: Especially vitamin C, which breaks down easily in heat.
• Probiotics: The survival rate of probiotics decreases in hot and humid environments.
• Omega-3: Prone to rancidity in heat.
• Antibiotics: Effectiveness decreases when exposed to heat and humidity.
• Syrups: Active ingredients can break down in high temperatures.

For example, diazepam can lose up to 25% of its efficacy at temperatures above 36°C, and lorazepam can lose up to 75%. Nitroglycerin, a vasodilator, is also susceptible to humidity and can degrade easily. If such medications degrade, they may not be effective in emergencies, posing serious risks.

 

Limitations and Precautions of Refrigerator Storage

While it may seem safe to store medications in the refrigerator, this is not always the best approach. Except for medications that specifically require refrigeration, most should be stored in a cool, dry place. Here are some limitations and precautions for refrigerator storage.

• Temperature Fluctuations: Taking medications in and out of the refrigerator can cause temperature changes that may degrade the medication.
• Humidity: The high humidity inside the refrigerator can expose medications to moisture.
• Specific Medications: For instance, epinephrine can lose up to 64% of its efficacy when repeatedly exposed to high and low temperatures.

Therefore, it's essential to consult with a pharmacist for the proper storage conditions for each medication, considering its ingredients and formulation.

 

 

How to Safely Store Medications and Supplements

To safely store medications and supplements, follow these guidelines.

• Cool and Dry Location: Store in a place with no direct sunlight, below 25°C, and with humidity below 60%.
• Use Airtight Containers: Protect medications and supplements from moisture and air by storing them in airtight containers.
• Consult with a Pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist about the appropriate storage method for each medication.
• Check Labels: Follow the storage instructions on the medication’s packaging or label.
• Refrigeration: Only refrigerate medications that specifically require it and manage them properly before and after use.

 

Conclusion: The Importance of Proper Medication Storage

In the hot and humid environment of summer, the risk of medication and supplement degradation is high. Thus, proper storage of medications is crucial. Refrigeration is not always the safest option, and it’s important to follow storage methods suitable for the medication’s ingredients and formulation. Consult with a pharmacist to confirm the correct storage method and prevent degradation, thereby safeguarding your health.

 

By properly storing medications and supplements, you can use them safely even during the summer. It’s essential to acquire and practice knowledge about medication storage to protect your health. Safe storage of medications is the first step in maintaining our health.