Re: [e-drug] Can expired drug still can be used? (9)

["Chandra Gulhati" <seeemgee@yahoo.co.uk>]

E-DRUG: Can expired drug still can be used? (9)
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dear E-druggers,

There are two aspects: legal and scientific.

In India, it is illegal to dispense expired drugs.
Every drug store is obliged to have a part of the
premises clearly marked "Expired Medicines" which
should always remain locked till medicines are
returned to manufacturers or destroyed.

If a doctor uses expired medicines he is liable under
the Consumer Protection Act as well as under other
civil and criminal laws, depending on the case.

Scientifically I know of no drug that becomes "toxic"
or harmful just after the expiry date, if stored as
recommended. Expiry date is related to the potency
part. For example, the activity of the active
ingredients must not be below 95% and not over 105%
during the shelf life. Due to stability problems
coupled with less than ideal storage conditions, the
potency may fall below 95%. In many cases, it may not
be harmful but in some instances, such as insulin, the
patients may suffer.

Dr. Chandra M. Gulhati
Editor, MIMS INDIA
(Monthly Index of Medical Specialities)
503 Mansarovar,
90 Nehru Place,
New Delhi 110019.
seeemgee@yahoo.co.uk
Tel: 26433115
Fax: 26424016/26463720