What happens to medicine left in a car in the sun? Should you keep sunscreen in the refrigerator? And why not?
Medications in the bathroom? With rising temperatures and high humidity, many are asking how to properly and safely store medications and cosmetics. Improper storage may impair effectiveness and even cause damage. In preparation for the expected heat wave this weekend, Hagit Massad, a clinical pharmacist at Klalit Haifa District and Western Galilee, is making arrangements:
How is it recommended to store medicines?
It is important to keep medications in their original packaging, as the packaging contains the name of the medication, the expiration date, and storage instructions. The packaging also protects the medication from exposure to light and air, and reduces the risk of confusion between different medications, especially when they are similar in shape but different in composition.
Where should you store medicines at home?
At home, it is recommended to store medications in a cool, dry place, usually up to 25 degrees. It is advisable to choose a tall, closed cabinet, out of reach of children. Medications should not be stored in the bathroom, which is a hot and humid environment that may damage the composition of the active ingredient. It is important to keep medications away from heat sources such as ovens and stoves, or from direct light sources such as windowsills. The specific storage instructions can be found in the consumer leaflet or on the packaging, and it is worth reviewing them and making sure to act accordingly.
Should you store medicines in the refrigerator?
Some medications are designed to be stored in the refrigerator, and the appropriate temperature range for them will be clearly indicated on the packaging, usually between 2 and 8 degrees. These medications should be stored inside the refrigerator, but not in the door, because frequent opening and closing may cause temperature changes. Medications should not be stored in the freezer. Unnecessary cooling may cause changes in the composition of the active ingredient and impair the effectiveness of the medication. For example, acetaminophen syrup has a clear warning that it should not be stored in the refrigerator, even though many parents do so out of habit.
Storage in the car?
On hot summer days, the temperature in a car can reach 70 to 80 degrees or even higher. Such extreme heat can cause chemical reactions in the composition of the medication, reduce its effectiveness, and even cause real damage. Therefore, even if it is for a short time, it is not recommended to leave medication in the car. And if the medication is forgotten in the car, it is impossible to know whether it has been damaged or not, so the clear recommendation is not to use it, throw it in a designated bin for destroying medication, and get a new prescription.
Storing medicines on flights
When traveling with medication on a flight, it is important to take it in your carry-on bag and not store it in a suitcase that goes into the belly of the plane. In addition to the risk of losing your luggage, there may be extreme temperature changes in the hold that could damage the medication. Pay attention to the volume restrictions for liquids on a flight and make sure that the medication meets the permitted conditions.
And what about cosmetics?
Cosmetics may also be sensitive to heat. Makeup, creams, and sunscreens may change their color, texture, or smell, and sometimes lose their effectiveness. Therefore, they should be stored like medications in a cool, dry place. They should not be left in a car, especially sunscreens, as heat may impair their effectiveness. Strict adherence to storage instructions will maintain the safety and effectiveness of medications and products. It is always a good idea to read the consumer leaflet or the packaging. If in doubt, it is important to consult a pharmacist. Towards the end of this coming weekend, when a particularly severe heat wave is expected, it is recommended to store medications and products in an air-conditioned place, and if possible – refrigerated.