Do medicines really expire?
The date stamped on the box describes the sealed pack. Once you open, mix or dilute a medicine, a different and usually much shorter clock starts — and that number is printed on the same label, where practically nobody looks.
What the FDA’s own data shows
The best evidence on this is the FDA’s, from a programme it has run for the US Department of Defense for two decades. Testing 122 drug products across 3,005 lots, it found that 88% of lots were extended at least one year beyond their original expiry date, by an average of 66 months.
“The SLEP data supports the assertion that many drug products, if properly stored, can be extended past the expiration date. Due to the lot-to-lot variability, the stability and quality of extended drug products can only be assured by periodic testing and systematic evaluation of each lot.”
Read both halves. The date is conservative — and the variation between lots is exactly why it is not a number to second-guess with the bottle in your hand. Source: Lyon RC et al. Stability profiles of drug products extended beyond labeled expiration dates. J Pharm Sci. 2006;95(7):1549-60.
Where the clock is genuinely short
Ranked by the shortest period any of that drug’s labels allows once it is opened, mixed or diluted. The ranking is read out of the quoted sentence, so it cannot drift from the words it is based on.
- Docetaxel1 hour
Sodium Chloride solution or 5% Dextrose solution) should be used within 4 hours (including the 1 hour intravenous administration).
- Doxorubicin1 hour
If not used within 1 hour, discard the diluted product.
- Praziquantel1 hour
Crushed or disintegrated tablets should be used within 1 hour of mixing [see Dosage and Administration (2.
- Sincalide1 hour
Discard after 1 hour .
- Bendamustine2 hours
Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, the final admixture is stable for 24 hours stored under refrigerated conditions at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) or for 2 hours when stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F) and room light.
- Dinutuximab2 hours
If blood pressure remains stable for at least 2 hours, increase the infusion rate as tolerated up to a maximum rate of 1.
- Entrectinib2 hours
Discard any unused suspension if not used within 2 hours of preparation.
- Fedratinib2 hours
Discard the prepared dose if not given within 2 hours.
- Hexaminolevulinate2 hours
The solution should be discarded if not used within 2 hours.
- Leuprolide2 hours
Discard if not used within 2 hours.
- Nitisinone2 hours
Discard after 2 hours.
- Nogapendekin Alfa Inbakicept-Pmln2 hours
If the admixture of ANKTIVA in combination with BCG is not used immediately, store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and use within 2 hours.
- Selpercatinib2 hours
Discard RETEVMO dispersion if not taken within 2 hours.
- Tiopronin2 hours
Discard any mixture that has not been given within 2 hours.
- Valbenazine2 hours
Discard of any unused portion after 2 hours.
- Dexrazoxane3 hours
Following reconstitution with Sterile Water for Injection, USP, dexrazoxane for injection is stable for 30 minutes at room temperature or if storage is necessary, up to 3 hours from the time of reconstitution when stored under refrigeration, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).
- Ascorbic Acid4 hours
Dispense single doses to multiple patients in a pharmacy admixture program; use within 4 hours of puncture.
- Cefazolin4 hours
DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION AFTER 4 HOURS .
- Cefepime4 hours
Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .
- Cefotaxime4 hours
Discard the reconstituted stock solution 4 hours after initial entry.
- Cefoxitin4 hours
Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .
- Ceftazidime4 hours
DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION AFTER 4 HOURS.
- Ceftriaxone4 hours
Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .
- Cefuroxime4 hours
DISCARD VIALS 4 HOURS AFTER INITIAL ENTRY .
- Cysteine4 hours
Use within 4 hours of puncture.
- Cytarabine4 hours
Discard any unused portion within 4 hours after initial closure entry.
- Dactinomycin4 hours
Discard after 4 hours.
- Decitabine4 hours
Diluted stored solution must be used within 4 hours from the time of preparation.
- Epinephrine4 hours
Adrenalin diluted in 5 percent dextrose solutions or 5 percent dextrose and sodium chloride solutions are stable for 4 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigerated conditions.
- Etelcalcetide4 hours
Use within 4 hours and do not expose to direct sunlight if removed from the original carton.
Every drug we hold an in-use limit for (179)
Does Acetazolamide expire once it is opened?
12 hours“Use within 12 hours of reconstitution.” — Acetazolamide label ↗
50 labels read
Does Acetylcysteine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Stability studies indicate that the diluted solution is stable for 24 hours at controlled room temperature.” — Acetylcysteine label ↗
96 hours“Discard opened vial after 96 hours.” — Acetylcysteine label ↗
21 labels read
Does Acyclovir expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Once diluted for administration, each dose should be used within 24 hours.” — Acyclovir Sodium label ↗
50 labels read
Does Amikacin expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Stability in IV Fluids Amikacin sulfate is stable for 24 hours at room temperature at concentrations of 0.” — Amikacin Sulfate label ↗
8 labels read
Does Amoxicillin expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard suspension after 14 days.” — Amoxicillin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Aprepitant expire once it is opened?
72 hours“The dose must be used within 72 hours of preparation.” — EMEND label ↗
8 labels read
Does Arformoterol expire once it is opened?
6 weeks“If stored at room temperature, discard if not used after 6 weeks or if past the expiration date, whichever is sooner.” — Arformoterol tartrate label ↗
15 labels read
Does Ascorbic Acid expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Dispense single doses to multiple patients in a pharmacy admixture program; use within 4 hours of puncture.” — Ascorbic Acid label ↗
50 labels read
Does Atenolol expire once it is opened?
48 hours“These admixtures are stable for 48 hours if they are not used immediately.” — Atenolol label ↗
50 labels read
Does Atomoxetine expire once it is opened?
45 days“Discard unused atomoxetine oral solution remaining in the bottle, 45 days after first opening the bottle.” — Atomoxetine hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Atropine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“After initial use, store between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) and discard within 24 hours.” — Atropine Sulfate label ↗
50 labels read
Does Azathioprine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“6, and it should be used within 24 hours.” — Azathioprine Sodium label ↗
21 labels read
Does Azelaic Acid expire once it is opened?
8 weeks“Discard product 8 weeks after opening [see Dosage and Administration (2) ] .” — FINACEA FOAM label ↗
18 labels read
Does Azithromycin expire once it is opened?
7 days“Storage When diluted according to the instructions (1 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL), azithromycin for injection is stable for 24 hr at or below room temperature 30°C (86°F), or for 7 days if stored under refrigeration 5°C (41°F).” — Azithromycin label ↗
10 days“After mixing, store suspension at 5° to 30°C (41° to 86°F) and use within 10 days.” — azithromycin label ↗
14 days“Discard after the 14 days.” — AZASITE label ↗
50 labels read
Does Baclofen expire once it is opened?
2 months“Discard unused portion 2 months after first opening.” — Baclofen label ↗
50 labels read
Does Barium expire once it is opened?
21 days“Discard any unused product after 21 days.” — Varibar Thin Honey label ↗
50 labels read
Does Bendamustine expire once it is opened?
2 hours“Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, the final admixture is stable for 24 hours stored under refrigerated conditions at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) or for 2 hours when stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F) and room light.” — TREANDA label ↗
3 hours“Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, the final admixture is stable for 24 hours when stored refrigerated (2°C to 8°C or 36°F to 46°F) or for 3 hours when stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F) and room light.” — Bendamustine Hydrochloride label ↗
6 hours“Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, the final admixture is stable for 24 hours when stored refrigerated (2°C to 8°C or 36°F to 46°F) or for 6 hours when stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F) and room light.” — Bendeka label ↗
12 labels read
Does Bimatoprost expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard any unused containers 14 days after first opening the pouch.” — ZOLYMBUS label ↗
20 labels read
Does Bleomycin expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Bleomycin for Injection, USP is stable for 24 hours at room temperature in Sodium Chloride.” — Bleomycin label ↗
6 labels read
Does Bosentan expire once it is opened?
7 days“Divided dispersible tablets should be stored under the same conditions and used within 7 days.” — Bosentan label ↗
8 labels read
Does Brivaracetam expire once it is opened?
5 months“Discard any unused brivaracetam oral solution remaining after 5 months of first opening the bottle.” — BRIVARACETAM label ↗
20 labels read
Does Bumetanide expire once it is opened?
24 hours“However, solutions should be freshly prepared and used within 24 hours.” — Bumetanide label ↗
50 labels read
Does Candesartan Cilexetil expire once it is opened?
30 days“Use within 30 days after first opening.” — CANDESARTAN CILEXETIL label ↗
16 labels read
Does Carboplatin expire once it is opened?
8 hours“When prepared as directed, carboplatin aqueous solutions are stable for 8 hours at room temperature (25°C).” — Carboplatin label ↗
28 days“After first use, store the partially used vial in the original carton at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and then discard after 28 days.” — KYXATA label ↗
13 labels read
Does Carglumic Acid expire once it is opened?
90 days“Discard bottle after 90 days from first opening.” — Carglumic Acid label ↗
4 labels read
Does Carmustine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“After reconstitution as recommended, carmustine for injection, USP is stable for 24 hours under refrigeration (2°-8°C, 36°-46°F) in glass container.” — Carmustine label ↗
14 labels read
Does Caspofungin expire once it is opened?
24 hours“This diluted infusion solution in the intravenous bag or bottle must be used within 24 hours if stored at ≤25°C (≤77°F) or within 48 hours if stored refrigerated at 2 to 8°C (36 to 46°F).” — Caspofungin Acetate label ↗
7 labels read
Does Cefaclor expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard unused portion after 14 days.” — Cefaclor label ↗
4 labels read
Does Cefazolin expire once it is opened?
4 hours“DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION AFTER 4 HOURS .” — Cefazolin label ↗
24 hours“When reconstituted or diluted according to the instructions below, Cefazolin for Injection is stable for 24 hours at room temperature or for 10 days if stored under refrigeration (5°C or 41°F).” — Cefazolin label ↗
7 days“The product must then be used within 7 days, but not beyond the labeled expiration date.” — Cefazolin Sodium label ↗
33 labels read
Does Cefepime expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .” — CEFEPIME label ↗
12 hours“Note: Following reconstitution (activation), product must be used within 12 hours if stored at room temperature or within 5 days if stored under refrigeration.” — CEFEPIME HYDROCHLORIDE AND DEXTROSE label ↗
24 hours“The thawed solution remains stable for 7 days under refrigeration 5°C (41°F) or 24 hours at room temperature 25°C (77°F).” — Cefepime label ↗
15 labels read
Does Cefixime expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard unused portion after 14 days.” — Cefixime label ↗
8 labels read
Does Cefotaxime expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard the reconstituted stock solution 4 hours after initial entry.” — Cefotaxime label ↗
12 hours“IV 95 24 hours 7 days 5 days 2 g vial IV 180 12 hours 7 days 5 days Reconstituted solutions stored in original containers and plastic syringes remain stable for 13 weeks frozen.” — Cefotaxime label ↗
3 labels read
Does Cefoxitin expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .” — Cefoxitin label ↗
12 hours“Note: Following reconstitution (activation), product must be used within 12 hours if stored at room temperature or within 7 days if stored under refrigeration.” — Cefoxitin and Dextrose label ↗
18 hours“When diluted according to the instructions above, cefoxitin is stable for 18 hours at room temperature or for 48 hours if stored under refrigeration (5°C or 41°F).” — Cefoxitin label ↗
11 labels read
Does Cefpodoxime Proxetil expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard unused portion after 14 days.” — Cefpodoxime Proxetil label ↗
14 labels read
Does Cefprozil expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard after 14 days.” — CEFPROZIL label ↗
13 labels read
Does Ceftazidime expire once it is opened?
4 hours“DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION AFTER 4 HOURS.” — TAZICEF label ↗
24 hours“Tazicef in ADD-Vantage ® vials is stable for 24 hours at room temperature.” — TAZICEF label ↗
8 labels read
Does Ceftriaxone expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard any unused portion after 4 HOURS .” — Ceftriaxone label ↗
24 hours“The admixture is stable for 24 hours at room temperature only in 0.” — Ceftriaxone Sodium label ↗
7 days“The product must then be used within 7 days, but not beyond the labeled expiration date.” — CEFTRIAXONE AND DEXTROSE label ↗
34 labels read
Does Cefuroxime expire once it is opened?
4 hours“DISCARD VIALS 4 HOURS AFTER INITIAL ENTRY .” — Cefuroxime label ↗
38 labels read
Does Choriogonadotropin Alfa expire once it is opened?
30 days“The Ovidrel ® PreFilled Syringe may be stored by the patient for no more than 30 days at room temperature (up to 25°C (77°F) but must be used within those 30 days.” — Ovidrel label ↗
60 days“If reconstituted solution in vial is not used immediately, then store refrigerated [2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)] until use and discard after 60 days.” — Pregnyl label ↗
3 labels read
Does Ciprofloxacin expire once it is opened?
2 days“Alternatively, a woman may pump and discard during treatment and for additional 2 days after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.” — ciprofloxacin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Cisatracurium expire once it is opened?
21 days“Upon removal from the refrigeration, use within 21 days even if re-refrigerated.” — Cisatracurium Besylate label ↗
19 labels read
Does Cisplatin expire once it is opened?
6 hours“If diluted solution is not to be used within 6 hours, protect solution from light.” — Cisplatin label ↗
20 hours“The reconstituted solution is stable for 20 hours at controlled room temperature [20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)].” — Cisplatin label ↗
7 days“The cisplatin remaining in the amber vial following initial entry is stable for 28 days protected from light or for 7 days under fluorescent room light.” — CISPLATIN label ↗
13 labels read
Does Clarithromycin expire once it is opened?
14 days“After mixing, store at 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) and use within 14 days.” — Clarithromycin label ↗
44 labels read
Does Clindamycin expire once it is opened?
2 weeks“The solution is stable for 2 weeks at room temperature.” — CLINDAMYCIN PALMITATE HYDROCHLORIDE (Pediatric) label ↗
50 labels read
Does Clobazam expire once it is opened?
90 days“Use within 90 days of first opening the bottle, then discard any remainder.” — Clobazam label ↗
22 labels read
Does Clonidine expire once it is opened?
30 days“For the bottles of 30 mL and 60 mL, discard any unused ONYDA XR 30 days after first opening the bottle.” — ONYDA XR label ↗
60 days“For the 120 mL bottle, discard any unused ONYDA XR 60 days after first opening the bottle.” — ONYDA XR label ↗
50 labels read
Does Clozapine expire once it is opened?
100 days“The suspension is stable for 100 days after initial bottle opening.” — VERSACLOZ label ↗
15 labels read
Does Colistimethate expire once it is opened?
7 days“Store reconstituted solution in refrigerator 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) or between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), and use within 7 days.” — Colistimethate label ↗
6 labels read
Does Cyclophosphamide expire once it is opened?
14 days“Store preparations under refrigeration in glass containers and used within 14 days.” — CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE label ↗
28 days“Discard unused portion after 28 days.” — CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE label ↗
33 labels read
Does Cysteamine expire once it is opened?
7 days“Discard 7 days after first opening.” — CYSTADROPS label ↗
1 week“After Opening: Record discard date on the bottle, which is 1 week from the day the foil and bottle were opened.” — CYSTARAN label ↗
4 labels read
Does Cysteine expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Use within 4 hours of puncture.” — ELCYS label ↗
10 labels read
Does Cytarabine expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard any unused portion within 4 hours after initial closure entry.” — Cytarabine label ↗
15 labels read
Does Dabigatran Etexilate expire once it is opened?
4 months“Once opened, the product must be used within 4 months.” — Dabigatran Etexilate label ↗
21 labels read
Does Dacarbazine expire once it is opened?
8 hours“Use within 8 hours of reconstitution.” — Dacarbazine label ↗
3 labels read
Does Dactinomycin expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Discard after 4 hours.” — Dactinomycin label ↗
5 labels read
Does Dantrolene expire once it is opened?
6 hours“The contents of the vial must be protected from direct light and used within 6 hours after reconstitution.” — Revonto label ↗
21 labels read
Does Decitabine expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Diluted stored solution must be used within 4 hours from the time of preparation.” — Decitabine label ↗
7 hours“Diluted stored solution must be used within 7 hours from the time of preparation.” — decitabine label ↗
23 labels read
Does Deflazacort expire once it is opened?
1 month“Discard any unused deflazacort oral suspension remaining after 1 month of first opening the bottle.” — Deflazacort Oral Suspension label ↗
16 labels read
Does Denosumab-Bmwo expire once it is opened?
63 days“Discard Stoboclo if not used or returned to refrigerator within the 63 days.” — Stoboclo label ↗
4 labels read
Does Desmopressin expire once it is opened?
6 months“Discard STIMATE 6 months after it is opened, after 25 sprays, or by the expiration date, whichever is sooner.” — Stimate label ↗
42 labels read
Does Desoximetasone expire once it is opened?
30 days“Label the bottle with “discard the product 30 days after dispensing” Repackaged/Relabeled by: Bryant Ranch Prepack, Inc.” — desoximetasone label ↗
36 labels read
Does Dexamethasone expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Since infusion solutions generally do not contain preservatives, mixtures should be used within 24 hours.” — Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate label ↗
50 labels read
Does Dexrazoxane expire once it is opened?
3 hours“Following reconstitution with Sterile Water for Injection, USP, dexrazoxane for injection is stable for 30 minutes at room temperature or if storage is necessary, up to 3 hours from the time of reconstitution when stored under refrigeration, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).” — Dexrazoxane label ↗
4 hours“The diluted infusion solutions are stable for one hour at room temperature or if storage is necessary, up to 4 hours when stored under refrigeration, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).” — Dexrazoxane label ↗
6 hours“Reconstituted solutions of dexrazoxane for injection are stable for 6 hours at controlled room temperature or under refrigeration, 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).” — DEXRAZOXANE label ↗
8 labels read
Does Dicloxacillin expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard any liquid forms of penicillin after seven days if stored at room temperature or after 14 days if refrigerated.” — Dicloxacillin Sodium label ↗
8 labels read
Does Dihydroergotamine expire once it is opened?
8 hours“It may not be fully effective if opened and not used within 8 hours.” — Dihydroergotamine mesylate label ↗
15 labels read
Does Dobutamine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Intravenous solutions should be used within 24 hours.” — Dobutamine label ↗
12 labels read
Does Docetaxel expire once it is opened?
1 hour“Sodium Chloride solution or 5% Dextrose solution) should be used within 4 hours (including the 1 hour intravenous administration).” — Docetaxel label ↗
4 hours“Stability Docetaxel Injection final dilution for infusion, if stored between 2°C and 25°C (36°F and 77°F), is stable for 4 hours.” — Docetaxel label ↗
6 hours“Stability Docetaxel Injection final dilution for infusion, if stored between 2°C and 25°C (36°F and 77°F) is stable for 6 hours.” — Docetaxel label ↗
32 labels read
Does Dopamine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Solution 200 mcg/mL 400 mcg/mL 800 mcg/mL Dopamine hydrochloride injection has been found to be stable for a minimum of 24 hours after dilution in the foregoing I.” — Dopamine Hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Doxercalciferol expire once it is opened?
3 days“After initial vial use: discard unused portion of the single-dose vial; store opened multiple-dose vial for up to 3 days at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).” — Doxercalciferol label ↗
8 labels read
Does Doxorubicin expire once it is opened?
1 hour“If not used within 1 hour, discard the diluted product.” — Doxorubicin Hydrochloride label ↗
7 days“The reconstituted solution is stable for 7 days at room temperature and under normal room light (100 foot-candles) and 15 days under refrigeration (2° to 8°C).” — Doxorubicin Hydrochloride label ↗
31 labels read
Does Dronabinol expire once it is opened?
42 days“Discard unused portion 42 days after first opening [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].” — SYNDROS label ↗
9 labels read
Does Emtricitabine expire once it is opened?
3 months“EMTRIVA oral solution should be used within 3 months if stored by the patient at 25 °C (77 °F); excursions permitted to 15–30 °C (59–86 °F).” — Emtriva label ↗
50 labels read
Does Enalapril expire once it is opened?
60 days“If stored at room temperature, discard after 60 days.” — Enalapril Maleate label ↗
50 labels read
Does Epinephrine expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Adrenalin diluted in 5 percent dextrose solutions or 5 percent dextrose and sodium chloride solutions are stable for 4 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigerated conditions.” — Adrenalin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Epoetin Alfa expire once it is opened?
21 days“Discard 21 days after initial entry.” — EPOGEN label ↗
3 labels read
Does Eptifibatide expire once it is opened?
2 months“Upon transfer, vial cartons must be marked by the dispensing pharmacist with a "DISCARD BY" date (2 months from the transfer date or the labeled expiration date, whichever comes first).” — Eptifibatide label ↗
10 labels read
Does Erythromycin expire once it is opened?
35 days“USP, 200 mg/5 mL and 400 mg/5 mL must be stored at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature] and used within 35 days; refrigeration is not required.” — Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate label ↗
50 labels read
Does Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate expire once it is opened?
10 days“After mixing, store in the refrigerator and use within 10 days.” — E.E.S 400 label ↗
35 days“After reconstitution, Ery-Ped 200 and Ery-Ped 400 must be stored at or below 77°F (25°C) and used within 35 days; refrigeration is not required.” — Ery-Ped label ↗
15 labels read
Does Esmolol expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Once drug has been withdrawn from ready-to-use bag, the bag should be used within 24 hours, with any unused portion discarded.” — BREVIBLOC label ↗
24 labels read
Does Famotidine expire once it is opened?
48 hours“Therefore, it is recommended that if not used immediately after preparation, diluted solutions of Famotidine Injection should be refrigerated and used within 48 hours (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ).” — Famotidine label ↗
7 days“Although diluted Famotidine Injection has been shown to be physically and chemically stable for 7 days at room temperature, there are no data on the maintenance of sterility after dilution.” — Famotidine label ↗
30 days“Discard unused constituted suspension after 30 days.” — Famotidine label ↗
50 labels read
Does Ferric Carboxymaltose expire once it is opened?
72 hours“USP, at concentrations ranging from 2 to 4 mg of iron per mL, Injectafer solution is physically and chemically stable for 72 hours when stored at room temperature.” — Injectafer label ↗
4 labels read
Does Fidaxomicin expire once it is opened?
12 days“Discard unused suspension after 12 days.” — Dificid label ↗
4 labels read
Does Filgrastim expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Discard any vial or prefilled syringe left at room temperature for greater than 24 hours.” — RELEUKO label ↗
8 labels read
Does Fluconazole expire once it is opened?
2 weeks“After reconstitution: Store suspension between 30°C (86°F) and 5°C (41°F) and discard unused portion after 2 weeks.” — Fluconazole label ↗
50 labels read
Does Fludarabine expire once it is opened?
8 hours“Use of Infusion Solutions Fludarabine Phosphate Injection contains no antimicrobial preservative and should be used within 8 hours of opening.” — Fludarabine Phosphate label ↗
5 labels read
Does Formoterol expire once it is opened?
3 months“After dispensing to the patient: Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and discard when drug expires or store at room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and discard if not used after 3 months.” — Formoterol fumarate label ↗
32 labels read
Does Fosaprepitant Dimeglumine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“The reconstituted final drug solution is stable for 24 hours at ambient room temperature [at or below 25°C (77°F)].” — FOSAPREPITANT DIMEGLUMINE label ↗
13 labels read
Does Foscarnet expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Solutions thus prepared should be used within 24 hours of first entry into a infusion bag.” — Foscarnet Sodium label ↗
10 labels read
Does Gadobutrol expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Discard any unused portion 24 hours after puncture of the IBP.” — Gadavist label ↗
9 labels read
Does Ganciclovir expire once it is opened?
24 hours“9% sodium chloride injection or other acceptable infusion fluid as specified above, should be used within 24 hours of dilution to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.” — Ganciclovir label ↗
9 labels read
Does Glycerol Phenylbutyrate expire once it is opened?
28 days“Discard bottle 28 days after opening.” — Glycerol Phenylbutyrate label ↗
8 labels read
Does Granisetron expire once it is opened?
24 hours“However, granisetron hydrochloride injection, has been shown to be stable for at least 24 hours when diluted in 0.” — Granisetron Hydrochloride label ↗
30 days“Once the multiple-dose vial is penetrated, its contents should be used within 30 days.” — Granisetron Hydrochloride label ↗
10 labels read
Does Hydromorphone expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Hydromorphone hydrochloride injection is physically compatible and chemically stable for at least 24 hours at 25°C, protected from light in most common large-volume parenteral solutions.” — Hydromorphone Hydrochloride label ↗
28 days“Use or discard multi-dose vials within 28 days of the first use.” — Hydromorphone Hydrochloride label ↗
“C, protected from light.” — Hydromorphone Hydrochloride label ↗
30 labels read
Does Hydroxocobalamin expire once it is opened?
6 hours“Discard any unused portion after 6 hours.” — Cyanokit label ↗
3 labels read
Does Hydroxyurea expire once it is opened?
12 weeks“Use within 12 weeks after initially opening the bottle.” — XROMI label ↗
16 labels read
Does Ibutilide expire once it is opened?
24 hours“L): polyvinyl chloride plastic bags polyolefin bags Admixtures of the product, with approved diluents, are chemically and physically stable for 24 hours at room temperature (15° to 30° C or 59° to 86° F) and for 48 hours at refrigerated temperatures (2° to 8°C or 36° to 46°F).” — Ibutilide Fumarate label ↗
3 labels read
Does Ifosfamide expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Refrigerate constituted or constituted and further diluted solutions of Ifosfamide for Injection and use within 24 hours.” — IFOSFAMIDE label ↗
5 labels read
Does Iohexol expire once it is opened?
8 hours“Discard any unused portion after 8 hours from the initial closure entry.” — Omnipaque label ↗
5 labels read
Does Irinotecan expire once it is opened?
4 hours“In the case of admixtures prepared with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP, or Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, the solutions should be used within 4 hours if kept at room temperature.” — Irinotecan Hydrochloride label ↗
24 hours“The solution is physically and chemically stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature and in ambient fluorescent lighting.” — Irinotecan Hydrochloride label ↗
48 hours“Dextrose Injection, USP, and stored at refrigerated temperatures (approximately 2° to 8°C, 36° to 46°F), and protected from light are physically and chemically stable for 48 hours.” — Irinotecan Hydrochloride label ↗
17 labels read
Does Iron Sucrose expire once it is opened?
7 days“L, or undiluted (20 mg elemental iron per mL) and stored in a plastic syringe, was found to be physically and chemically stable for 7 days at controlled room temperature (25°C ± 2°C) and under refrigeration (4°C ± 2°C).” — Iron Sucrose label ↗
7 labels read
Does Labetalol expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Once infusion has started, discard any remaining at 24 hours.” — Labetalol Hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Lacosamide expire once it is opened?
6 months“Discard any unused lacosamide oral solution remaining after 6 months of first opening the bottle.” — Lacosamide label ↗
50 labels read
Does Lamotrigine expire once it is opened?
90 days“Discard the unused portion 90 days after first opening.” — SUBVENITE label ↗
50 labels read
Does Leucovorin expire once it is opened?
7 days“When reconstituted with Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP, the resulting solution must be used within 7 days.” — LEUCOVORIN CALCIUM label ↗
26 labels read
Does Leuprolide expire once it is opened?
2 hours“Discard if not used within 2 hours.” — Lupron Depot-PED label ↗
25 labels read
Does Levofloxacin expire once it is opened?
2 days“Lactation: Advise a lactating woman that she may pump and discard during treatment with levofloxacin and for an additional 2 days after the last dose.” — levofloxacin label ↗
72 hours“Stability of Levofloxacin Injection Following Dilution : Levofloxacin injection, when diluted in a compatible intravenous fluid to a concentration of 5 mg/mL, is stable for 72 hours when stored at or below 25°C (77°F) and for 14 days when stored under refrigeration at 5°C (41°F) in plastic intravenous containers.” — Levofloxacin label ↗
6 months“Solutions that are diluted in a compatible intravenous solution and frozen in glass bottles or plastic intravenous containers are stable for 6 months when stored at - 20°C (- 4°F).” — Levofloxacin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Levothyroxine expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Reconstituted drug product is preservative free and is stable for 4 hours.” — Levothyroxine Sodium label ↗
8 weeks“Use within 8 weeks of opening the bottle.” — THYQUIDITY label ↗
50 labels read
Does Linezolid expire once it is opened?
21 days“Use within 21 days after constitution.” — Linezolid label ↗
36 labels read
Does Meperidine expire once it is opened?
28 days“Multiple-dose vials: Discard unused portion after 28 days.” — DEMEROL label ↗
5 labels read
Does Mercaptopurine expire once it is opened?
8 weeks“Advise patients and caregivers to use mercaptopurine oral suspension within 8 weeks and properly discard remaining mercaptopurine oral suspension after 8 weeks.” — MERCAPTOPURINE label ↗
6 labels read
Does Methotrexate expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Diluted product should be used within 4 hours when stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) or 24 hours under refrigeration (2°C to 8°C).” — Methotrexate label ↗
30 days“After first puncture, store multiple-dose vials at 2°C to 8°C, and use within 30 days.” — Methotrexate label ↗
60 days“If stored at room temperature, discard after 60 days.” — Xatmep label ↗
46 labels read
Does Methylprednisolone expire once it is opened?
48 hours“Use within 48 hours after mixing.” — SOLU-MEDROL label ↗
50 labels read
Does Metoclopramide expire once it is opened?
4 weeks“Discard GIMOTI 4 weeks after opening even if the bottle contains unused medicine.” — GIMOTI label ↗
50 labels read
Does Mirabegron expire once it is opened?
28 days“Discard the unused portion after 28 days.” — Mirabegron label ↗
14 labels read
Does Mitomycin expire once it is opened?
48 hours“Sodium Chloride Injection is stable for 48 hours at room temperature.” — MITOMYCIN label ↗
7 days“If unrefrigerated, discard after 7 days.” — Mitomycin label ↗
14 days“Store solution under refrigeration 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F), discard after 14 days.” — Mitomycin label ↗
22 labels read
Does Mycophenolate Mofetil expire once it is opened?
60 days“Discard any unused portion 60 days after constitution.” — MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL label ↗
47 labels read
Does Naloxone expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Mixtures should be used within 24 hours.” — NALOXONE HYDROCHLORIDE label ↗
50 labels read
Does Nicardipine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“The diluted solution is stable for 24 hours at room temperature.” — Nicardipine Hydrochloride label ↗
34 labels read
Does Nitisinone expire once it is opened?
2 hours“Discard after 2 hours.” — NITYR label ↗
24 hours“Discard after 24 hours.” — NITYR label ↗
45 days“If not used within 45 days, discard ORFADIN capsules.” — ORFADIN label ↗
10 labels read
Does Nitroglycerin expire once it is opened?
8 weeks“Use within 8 weeks of first opening.” — NITROGLYCERIN label ↗
50 labels read
Does Nitroprusside expire once it is opened?
24 hours“If properly protected from light, the freshly diluted solution is stable for 24 hours.” — Sodium Nitroprusside label ↗
17 labels read
Does Nivolumab expire once it is opened?
8 hours“Discard diluted solution if not used within 8 hours from the time of preparation; or • under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and protected from light for no more than 7 days from the time of preparation to end of infusion.” — OPDIVO label ↗
7 days“Discard diluted solution if not used within 7 days from the time of preparation.” — OPDIVO label ↗
3 labels read
Does Norepinephrine expire once it is opened?
7 days“Product should be used within 7 days of removal from overwrap.” — NOREPINEPHRINE BITARTRATE IN SODIUM CHLORIDE label ↗
48 labels read
Does Olopatadine expire once it is opened?
30 days“Discard Instructions : Discard nasal device after 240 sprays (enough for 30 days of dosing) have been used even though the bottle is not completely empty.” — olopatadine hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Oxcarbazepine expire once it is opened?
7 weeks“Use within 7 weeks of first opening the bottle.” — OXCARBAZEPINE label ↗
50 labels read
Does Pantoprazole expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Store the diluted solution at room temperature up to 30°C (86°F) and must be used within 24 hours from the time of initial reconstitution.” — Pantoprazole Sodium label ↗
50 labels read
Does Pemetrexed expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Discard after 24 hours.” — PEMETREXED label ↗
48 hours“Discard after 48 hours.” — Pemfexy label ↗
33 labels read
Does Pemetrexed Disodium expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Discard the infusion bag solution if not used within 24 hours.” — PEMRYDI RTU label ↗
22 labels read
Does Penicillin G expire once it is opened?
7 days“DISCARD UNUSED SOLUTION AFTER 7 DAYS.” — Penicillin G Potassium label ↗
19 labels read
Does Penicillin V expire once it is opened?
14 days“Discard any unused portion after 14 days.” — Penicillin V Potassium label ↗
50 labels read
Does Pentamidine Isethionate expire once it is opened?
48 hours“After reconstitution with sterile water, the pentamidine isethionate solution is stable for 48 hours in the original vial at room temperature if protected from light.” — Pentamidine Isethionate label ↗
9 labels read
Does Perampanel expire once it is opened?
90 days“Use within 90 days after the first opening of the bottle.” — PERAMPANEL label ↗
7 labels read
Does Phentolamine expire once it is opened?
35 days“If the carton or pouch is removed from refrigeration, RYZUMVI may be stored at room temperature [up to 25°C (77°F)] but must be used within 35 days, not to exceed the expiration date printed on the vial.” — Ryzumvi label ↗
4 labels read
Does Phenylbutyrate expire once it is opened?
45 days“Discard any remaining PHEBURANE 45 days after first opening of the bottle.” — PHEBURANE label ↗
15 labels read
Does Pilocarpine expire once it is opened?
30 days“Once a pouch is open, the single-patient-use vials may be stored at room temperature [up to 77°F (25°C)] and used within 30 days.” — Qlosi label ↗
18 labels read
Does Plazomicin expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Stability of ZEMDRI Solution in Intravenous Fluids After dilution, ZEMDRI solution for administration is stable for 24 hours at room temperature at concentrations of 2.” — Zemdri (plazomicin) label ↗
3 labels read
Does Polystyrene Sulfonate expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Preparation and Administration Prepare suspension fresh and use within 24 hours.” — SODIUM POLYSTYRENE SULFONATE label ↗
14 days“If repackaging into other containers, store in refrigerator and use within 14 days of packaging.” — Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate label ↗
16 labels read
Does Pyridostigmine expire once it is opened?
3 months“Discard contents of blister pack 3 months after the mylar bag is opened.” — Pyridostigmine bromide label ↗
14 months“Following removal of the blister packages from the foil overwrap, discard the contents of the blister package after 14 months or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.” — Pyridostigmine Bromide label ↗
26 labels read
Does Regadenoson expire once it is opened?
10 hours“Lactation Advise a woman to pump and discard breast milk for 10 hours after regadenoson injection administration [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.” — Regadenoson label ↗
15 labels read
Does Risperidone expire once it is opened?
4 weeks“Risperidone 2 mg per day to 8 mg per day at delaying relapse was demonstrated in a controlled trial in adult patients who had been clinically stable for at least 4 weeks and were then followed for a period of 1 to 2 years [see Clinical Studies (14.” — Risperidone label ↗
“Clinical Studies (14.” — RISPERIDONE label ↗
“Clinical Studies ( 14.” — Risperidone label ↗
50 labels read
Does Rituximab expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Diluted RITUXAN solutions for infusion have been shown to be stable for an additional 24 hours at room temperature.” — Rituxan label ↗
5 labels read
Does Rivaroxaban expire once it is opened?
60 days“The suspension must be used within 60 days.” — Xarelto label ↗
27 labels read
Does Rivastigmine expire once it is opened?
14 days“The same site should not be used within 14 days.” — Exelon label ↗
29 labels read
Does Rocuronium expire once it is opened?
24 hours“These infusion solutions should be used within 24 hours of mixing.” — Rocuronium Bromide label ↗
45 labels read
Does Romidepsin expire once it is opened?
8 hours“The reconstituted ISTODAX solution is chemically stable for up to 8 hours at room temperature.” — ISTODAX label ↗
24 hours“PVC), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyethylene (PE) infusion bags as well as glass bottles, and is chemically stable for up to 24 hours when stored at room temperature.” — ISTODAX label ↗
3 labels read
Does Rufinamide expire once it is opened?
90 days“Use within 90 days of first opening the bottle, then discard any remainder.” — Banzel label ↗
16 labels read
Does Selegiline expire once it is opened?
3 months“Use within 3 months of opening pouch and immediately upon opening individual blister.” — ZELAPAR label ↗
15 labels read
Does Sincalide expire once it is opened?
1 hour“Discard after 1 hour .” — KINEVAC label ↗
8 hours“Discard after 8 hours.” — KINEVAC label ↗
4 labels read
Does Sitagliptin expire once it is opened?
6 months“Once the bottle has been opened, the product must be used within 6 months.” — Sitagliptin label ↗
34 labels read
Does Somatropin expire once it is opened?
21 days“After reconstitution of the lyophilized powder, the contents of the OMNITROPE vial must be used within 21 days.” — Omnitrope label ↗
28 days“Discard unused portions in the cartridge after 28 days.” — Omnitrope label ↗
7 labels read
Does Soybean Oil expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Admixtures should be used promptly with storage under refrigeration [2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)] not to exceed 24 hours and must be completely used within 24 hours after removal from refrigeration.” — NutriLipid I.V. Fat Emulsion label ↗
4 labels read
Does Succinylcholine Chloride expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Store the diluted succinylcholine chloride solution in a refrigerator [2 °C to 8 °C (36 °F to 46 °F)] and use within 24 hours after preparation.” — Succinylcholine Chloride label ↗
14 days“The multiple-dose vials are stable for up to 14 days at room temperature without significant loss of potency.” — Succinylcholine Chloride label ↗
60 days“The single-dose syringes are stable for up to 60 days at room temperature without significant loss of potency.” — Succinylcholine Chloride label ↗
38 labels read
Does Sugammadex expire once it is opened?
5 days“When not protected from light, the vial should be used within 5 days.” — Sugammadex label ↗
5 labels read
Does Tafluprost expire once it is opened?
30 days“Discard any unused containers 30 days after first opening the pouch.” — Tafluprost label ↗
5 labels read
Does Tasimelteon expire once it is opened?
5 weeks“After opening, discard after 5 weeks (for the 48 mL bottle) and after 8 weeks (for the 158 mL bottle).” — Hetlioz label ↗
4 labels read
Does Tavaborole expire once it is opened?
3 months“Discard product within 3 months after insertion of the dropper.” — Tavaborole label ↗
9 labels read
Does Temozolomide expire once it is opened?
14 hours“Discard reconstituted solution if not used within 14 hours, including infusion time.” — TEMODAR label ↗
16 labels read
Does Teriparatide expire once it is opened?
28 days“Throw away the device 28 days after first use.” — teriparatide label ↗
8 labels read
Does Thiotepa expire once it is opened?
4 hours“L After dilution the product is stable for 24 hours when stored at 2°C to 8°C (36° to 46°F) and for 4 hours when stored at 25°C (77°F).” — Thiotepa label ↗
8 hours“When reconstituted with sterile water for injection, solutions of thiotepa should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 8 hours.” — Thiotepa label ↗
12 labels read
Does Tinidazole expire once it is opened?
72 hours“Also, advise a nursing mother that she may choose to pump and discard her milk for 72 hours after administration of Tinidazole Tablets [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.” — Tindazole label ↗
7 days“The suspension of crushed tablets in artificial cherry syrup is stable for 7 days at room temperature.” — Tindazole label ↗
6 labels read
Does Tiopronin expire once it is opened?
2 hours“Discard any mixture that has not been given within 2 hours.” — Tiopronin label ↗
9 labels read
Does Tobramycin expire once it is opened?
24 hours“If kept at room temperature, the solution must be used within 24 hours.” — Tobramycin label ↗
96 hours“After reconstitution, the solution should be kept in a refrigerator and used within 96 hour.” — Tobramycin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Tofacitinib expire once it is opened?
60 days“Discard remaining oral solution after 60 days.” — TOFACITINIB label ↗
28 labels read
Does Topotecan expire once it is opened?
4 hours“Topotecan Injection diluted for infusion is stable for 4 hours at room temperature or 24 hours at refrigerated temperature in ambient lighting conditions.” — Topotecan label ↗
24 hours“Discard unused portion after 24 hours.” — Topotecan label ↗
28 days“Studies have shown the product is stable for 28 days after initial puncture when stored at room temperature.” — Topotecan label ↗
7 labels read
Does Trastuzumab expire once it is opened?
24 hours“If not used immediately, store the reconstituted Herceptin solution for up to 24 hours at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) ; discard any unused Herceptin after 24 hours.” — Herceptin label ↗
28 days“Store reconstituted HERZUMA in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F); discard unused HERZUMA after 28 days.” — HERZUMA label ↗
10 labels read
Does Treprostinil expire once it is opened?
3 days“Must be used within 3 days.” — Tyvaso DPI label ↗
7 days“Once the foil pack is opened, ampules should be used within 7 days.” — TYVASO label ↗
8 weeks“Must be used within 8 weeks.” — Tyvaso DPI label ↗
9 labels read
Does Ustekinumab expire once it is opened?
30 days“Discard the syringe if not used within 30 days at room temperature storage.” — YESINTEK label ↗
16 labels read
Does Ustekinumab-Aekn expire once it is opened?
7 days“Discard the vial if not used within 7 days at room temperature storage.” — Ustekinumab-aekn label ↗
30 days“Discard the syringe if not used within 30 days at room temperature storage.” — Ustekinumab-aekn label ↗
4 labels read
Does Ustekinumab-Ttwe expire once it is opened?
35 days“If not used within 35 days of room temperature storage, discard the prefilled syringe.” — USTEKINUMAB-TTWE label ↗
60 days“If not used within 60 days, discard the prefilled syringe.” — USTEKINUMAB-TTWE label ↗
3 labels read
Does Valacyclovir expire once it is opened?
28 days“Discard after 28 days.” — Valacyclovir Hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Vancomycin expire once it is opened?
4 hours“If prompt fluid transfer cannot be accomplished, discard the contents no later than 4 HOURS after initial closure puncture.” — Vancomycin Hydrochloride label ↗
14 days“Discard reconstituted and diluted solutions 14 days after initial reconstitution.” — Vancomycin Hydrochloride label ↗
28 days“Product should be used within 28 days of removal from aluminum overpouch.” — Vancomycin label ↗
50 labels read
Does Varenicline expire once it is opened?
30 days“Discard TYRVAYA nasal spray bottle 30 days after opening bottle.” — Tyrvaya label ↗
41 labels read
Does Vasopressin expire once it is opened?
18 hours“Discard unused diluted solution after 18 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigeration.” — VASOPRESSIN label ↗
48 hours“Discard the refrigerated vial after 48 hours after first puncture.” — VASOPRESSIN label ↗
30 days“Discard the refrigerated 10 mL vial after 30 days after first puncture.” — Vasopressin label ↗
25 labels read
Does Vecuronium expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Injection Lactated Ringer’s Injection Use within 24 hours of mixing with the above solutions.” — VECURONIUM BROMIDE label ↗
5 days“Use within 5 days of mixing with the above solution.” — VECURONIUM BROMIDE label ↗
11 labels read
Does Verapamil expire once it is opened?
24 hours“Verapamil is physically compatible and chemically stable for at least 24 hours at 25°C protected from light in most common large volume parenteral solutions.” — Verapamil Hydrochloride label ↗
50 labels read
Does Vigabatrin expire once it is opened?
90 days“Discard the unused portion 90 days after first opening.” — VIGAFYDE label ↗
25 labels read
Does Zidovudine expire once it is opened?
24 hours“After dilution, the solution is physically and chemically stable for 24 hours at room temperature and 48 hours if refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).” — RETROVIR label ↗
17 labels read
Does Zoledronic Acid expire once it is opened?
24 hours“L ready-to-infuse solution in a flexible plastic container (bag) 5 bags per carton Handling After entering the IV administration port, the solution is stable for 24 hours at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F).” — zoledronic acid label ↗
35 labels read
Does Zonisamide expire once it is opened?
30 days“Discard unused portion of ZONISADE 30 days after first opening of the bottle.” — ZONISADE label ↗
34 labels read
Frequently asked questions
Do medicines actually stop working on the expiry date?
Mostly not, and the largest dataset on this belongs to the FDA itself. Its Shelf Life Extension Program tested 122 drug products across 3,005 lots for the US Department of Defense; 88% of lots were extended at least a year past their original expiry, by an average of 66 months. The paper's own conclusion is the balanced one: many products, properly stored, can be extended — but because the variation between lots is large, that can only be confirmed by testing each lot. So the date is conservative, not arbitrary, and it is not a number you can safely second-guess at home.
Then what should I actually be looking at?
The in-use limit, which is a different number and is printed on the same label. The expiry date describes the sealed pack; the in-use limit starts when you open, mix or dilute it. Amoxicillin suspension is discarded 10 days after it is mixed. An insulin pen in use is discarded after 28 days even if medicine remains. Nitroglycerin is used within 8 weeks of first opening the bottle. Those are the numbers that decide whether what is in your cupboard still works, and they are quoted per product on the pages below.
Which medicines is it genuinely risky to keep past their limit?
The ones whose own labels impose the shortest clock — reconstituted antibiotic suspensions, insulin in use, nitroglycerin after opening, diluted injections. Those are listed first below, ranked by the shortest period any of that drug's labels allows. The ranking is read out of the quoted sentence itself, so it can never disagree with the words next to it.
Is a faded or discoloured tablet safe if it is in date?
Being in date is not the same as being intact. Heat and humidity — a bathroom cabinet is the worst common storage spot — degrade medicines faster than a calendar does, and the stability data behind any expiry date assumes the storage conditions printed on the pack. Anything that has changed colour, smell, or texture should go to a pharmacist regardless of the date.
Where do these numbers come from?
Each sentence is quoted from an FDA drug label on DailyMed and linked to it. We do not generalise: a limit printed on one manufacturer's suspension is stored against that product and shown with its name, because it is not a fact about the molecule.
Reference information quoted from FDA labels, not medical advice. Nothing here is a recommendation to use a medicine past its expiry date or its in-use limit — the point is the opposite, that the in-use limit is usually the stricter of the two and is the one people miss. A pharmacist will tell you about your specific product, and will take back what you no longer need.