MyMedicalCafe

Will the way i store my medicines affect the potency of the drugs? In what other ways can a drug’s potency be affected? This are the question that i ask my friend last week. He is a pharmacy officer.

The proper storage of medicines is of very great importance to maintain their potency. Proper storage must be strictly observe by manufacturers, distributors, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and patient.

Factor 1 -Moisture

Moisture is a major factor that can alter the potency of drugs that come in powder or tablet form. This is why such medications are kept in air-tight containers with dehydrating agents. Also, don’t keep such medications in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in other damp place.

Factor 2- Light

Direct sunlight can destroy the potency of some medicines. That is why the come in amber/dark colored bottles or colored blister film. It is important to keep medications in their original containers or packaging to preserve their potency.

Factor 3 – Temperature

Biological drugs eg vaccines and insulin are damage at room temperature. They must stored in refrigerators at between 2-8 c. Even medications that are not sensitive to temperature should be stored in rooms below 25 c. Warning: Do not leave your medicines in your for long period of time.

Factor 4- Age

Al medications lose their potency over time. The expiry date on the packaging indicates when the pharmaceutical product is no longer within acceptable specifications for potency and stability. It is good practice not to used medications after the expiry date. Not only could they be unsafe, the amounts of active ingredients may reduce.

Factor 5- Air

Many medications react with atmospheric oxygen, and oxidation is a prime cause of degradation. Oxidation is a prime cause degradation. Oxidation is reduced by individual blister packaging.

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