Khaberni - Many people keep capsules, creams, and drops, whether with a prescription or without, that have long expired, but experts warn of their risks to your health and your family's health.
Expired medications - do not underestimate their danger
It is time to dispose of the old cough syrup and the bottle of aspirin you no longer use. Expired medications may not work as expected, which is especially dangerous with heart and epilepsy medications, as they can be less effective and lead to serious complications.
Some medications chemically decompose over time, producing compounds that can be toxic, such as "tetracyclines" which transform into a substance associated with a rare and serious renal condition called "Fanconi syndrome".
Liquid medications, like cough syrup, are particularly susceptible to bacterial growth after being opened, which can cause infections if used after a long period.
Remaining antibiotics - a risk of antibiotic resistance
Keeping leftover antibiotics may seem useful, but it is dangerous. Each antibiotic is designed to treat a specific type of infection, and using an old or unsuitable antibiotic can lead to continued infection or more serious complications.
The greatest risk lies in antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to avoid the drug's effects, making treating infections difficult or impossible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified this resistance as one of the most serious public health threats.
Opioid painkillers - a hidden danger in the home medicine cabinet
Leftover opioids from surgery or medical procedures may seem harmless, but they are among the most dangerous drugs in the home. Many keep hydrocodone or oxycodone for months or years, which children, teenagers, or visitors may find and mistakenly use.
Even giving these pills to a friend or relative is dangerous, as the dosage may be incorrect or interact fatally with other drugs.
Laxatives - more than just a remedy for constipation
Most medicine cabinets contain multiple types of laxatives, which are often used randomly. Chronic use, especially of stimulant laxatives, can lead to bowel dependence on chemical stimulation, causing dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and nerve damage.
It is best to use one type of laxative intermittently and under medical supervision, and not to store large quantities of them. If you are storing several types, it may be time to visit a doctor to check for the causes of chronic constipation.
Old eye drops - a risk of infection and irritation
Old drops, even if they are over-the-counter, can be contaminated with bacteria after being opened, and may cause infections or corneal ulcers which can lead to vision loss.
So, if it has been a year or more since you last did a comprehensive check of your medicine cabinet, it is now time to dispose of old or unused medicines.
