How to store medicines safely at home
Heat, damp and sunlight can weaken medicines. These simple habits keep them safe and effective.
4 November 2026
Most medicines stay effective until their expiry date only if you store them properly. Heat, moisture and direct sunlight are the main things to avoid.
Five habits that help
- Keep them cool and dry. A cupboard away from the stove works better than the bathroom or kitchen counter.
- Keep the original pack. The strip and carton protect the medicine and carry the batch number and expiry date.
- Read the label. Some syrups, drops and injections need a fridge once opened.
- Check expiry dates every few months and do not use anything that has expired.
- Keep everything out of children’s reach. Choose a high shelf or a locked box.
When to ask for advice
If a tablet looks discoloured, a syrup has changed in smell or a strip is damaged, do not use it. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.
