Inhalers, like all medications, have expiration dates. Understanding these dates and the proper handling of inhalers is important for ensuring their effectiveness and user safety.
Understanding Inhaler Expiration
Inhalers contain medication that can undergo chemical changes and degradation over time. This degradation process can reduce the potency of the active ingredients. The chemical stability of the drug within the inhaler is crucial, and factors like temperature and humidity can influence this stability, potentially affecting the delivered dose and drug effectiveness. Manufacturers establish expiration dates to guarantee the medication’s full potency and safety up to that point.
Using an expired inhaler primarily poses a risk of reduced effectiveness, meaning it may not adequately control symptoms like an asthma attack. While expired inhalers are generally unlikely to cause toxic or dangerous side effects, their diminished potency can delay effective treatment, which can be particularly concerning in urgent situations. For routine use, relying on an expired inhaler could mean a person is not receiving the full maintenance treatment needed for their condition.
The expiration date is typically found on both the inhaler’s outer packaging and the canister itself. Some inhalers also have a “use by” date after they are opened or removed from their sealed foil pouch. This “in-use” shelf life can differ from the printed expiration date because exposure to air and moisture once opened can affect the medication’s stability and efficacy. It can be helpful to write the date of opening on the inhaler to keep track of its in-use period.
Storing and Disposing of Inhalers
Inhalers should generally be kept at room temperature, away from extreme heat, cold, and direct sunlight. Exposure to high temperatures or direct sunlight can cause the medication to degrade more rapidly, potentially reducing its potency even before the printed expiration date. Humidity and moisture can also negatively affect the medication, particularly in dry powder inhalers, so avoiding damp places like bathrooms is advisable.
It is also advisable to keep inhalers in their original packaging to protect them from environmental factors and to keep them out of reach of children and pets. Avoiding storage in places like cars, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly, helps preserve the medication’s integrity.
Disposing of expired or unused inhalers requires specific attention. Inhalers, especially metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) that contain propellants, are often considered hazardous waste and should not be simply thrown in household trash. Residual medication and propellants can contaminate water systems if disposed of improperly.
Many pharmacies offer take-back programs where expired or unused inhalers can be returned for safe disposal. Some communities also organize collection events for hazardous waste, and mail-back programs may be available. It is important to verify local regulations, as some drug take-back programs might not accept aerosol products like inhalers. Checking manufacturer instructions or contacting local waste management facilities can provide specific guidance on appropriate disposal methods in your area.