How long do pain relievers last?
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are labeled to last until their printed expiration date, typically 2–3 years from manufacture, when stored cool and dry.
| Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers | |
|---|---|
| Unopened | Until the printed expiration date, typically 2–3 years from manufacture |
| Opened | Until the printed date if kept closed, dry and cool (not in a steamy bathroom) |
| Ideal storage | Cool, dry, in the original container, out of reach of children. |
| Long-term | Government testing of military stockpiles found many solid medicines kept potency past their dates under ideal storage, but that does not apply to home storage. Replace expired medicine, and never rely on expired insulin, epinephrine, nitroglycerin or liquid antibiotics. |
Storage tips
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor how to build a safe reserve of prescription medicines.
Signs it has gone bad
- Tablets that are discolored, crumbling, sticky or smell unusual (aspirin that smells of vinegar)
- Torn or damp sterile packaging on dressings and gauze
- Brittle elastic, cracked rubber or adhesive that no longer sticks
- Any liquid medicine that has changed color or become cloudy