Medication abortion, commonly known as the abortion pill, is an effective method for ending an early pregnancy. It typically involves two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Like all medications, these pills have expiration dates, raising questions about their effectiveness and safety beyond those dates. This article explains medication expiration and its implications for abortion pills.
Understanding Medication Expiration
Manufacturers assign expiration dates to all medications based on rigorous stability testing. These tests ensure the drug retains its full strength, quality, and purity when stored correctly throughout its labeled shelf life. The expiration date signifies the period a drug is guaranteed to be fully effective and safe. Beyond this date, chemical changes, such as oxidation and hydrolysis, can occur. These changes can break down active ingredients, altering the drug’s composition and reducing its intended effect.
What Happens When Abortion Pills Expire
When abortion pills pass their expiration date, the primary concern is reduced effectiveness. Mifepristone generally has a shelf life of about five years, and misoprostol typically lasts around two years when stored properly. Over time, their active ingredients can degrade. Misoprostol, in particular, is sensitive to air and moisture, which can cause it to lose effectiveness quickly. If expired pills are used, their reduced potency could lead to an incomplete abortion, where pregnancy tissue is not fully expelled, potentially necessitating further medical intervention.
Proper Storage and Disposal
To maintain the effectiveness of abortion pills up to their expiration date, proper storage is important. Medications should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Avoiding storage in bathrooms, where humidity levels can fluctuate, is also advised. Keeping the pills in their original, tightly sealed packaging helps protect them from environmental factors.
For any expired or unused abortion pills, responsible disposal is important. The best method is often to utilize drug take-back programs, found at pharmacies or police stations. If a take-back option is unavailable, most medicines can be disposed of in household trash. Mix them with an undesirable substance like dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds, then place this mixture in a sealed bag or container to prevent leakage.
It is generally not recommended to flush medications down the toilet unless they are on a specific FDA flush list. Always remember to scratch out any personal information on the prescription label before discarding the packaging to protect privacy.