Expired medicines can become dangerous or lose their effectiveness. A recent report cited by Izvestia features Anastasia Agayeva, a clinician with the SberZdorovye medical network, explaining the risks tied to outdated drugs.
The clinician pointed to antibiotics and nitroglycerin as examples of medicines that should never be used after their labeled expiration date. Bacteria-fighting drugs containing tetracycline hydrochloride may turn toxic over time, while nitroglycerin can lose its potency, potentially compromising treatment when urgent action is needed.
Expired insulin is another critical concern, as degraded insulin can fail to control blood sugar and may trigger severe complications, including a diabetic crisis. The same caution applies to other liquid formulations, including injectable medicines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and syrups. Proper disposal of these products helps prevent accidental ingestion or misuse and protects households from avoidable health risks.
Agayeva emphasized basic safety guidelines: do not take any medicine that appears cloudy, has changed color, or emits an unusual smell. If an expired medicine has already been used, seeking urgent medical advice is essential, and contacting emergency services should be considered in certain scenarios to prevent harm.
The physician noted findings from recent studies indicating that some tablets, such as paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, and loratadine, may remain safe and effective for extended periods, potentially up to 15 years under specific conditions. Nevertheless, the counsel remains clear: extending the use of expired medications is not worth the risk to health, and avoidance is the prudent choice.
In a broader health update, there was mention of a male birth-control gel designed to increase libido without altering testosterone levels, highlighting ongoing research into gender-specific options for sexual health. This development underscores the importance of medical guidance and evidence when considering pharmaceutical products that influence well-being and daily life.