Cortisone cream is a common over-the-counter topical medication that uses hydrocortisone, a topical steroid, to calm skin inflammation. It treats conditions like eczema, rashes, and insect bites by reducing swelling, redness, and itching. Understanding the expiration date is important for the medication’s safety and effectiveness.
Understanding Expiration Dates
The expiration date on medication packaging indicates the period a manufacturer guarantees the product’s full potency, safety, and quality when stored under recommended conditions. Manufacturers determine this date through extensive stability testing, often marking it “EXP” on the tube, carton, or label.
Beyond the primary expiration date, some topical products feature a “period after opening” (PAO) symbol. This symbol, an open jar with a number and “M” (e.g., “12M”), indicates how many months the product remains safe and effective after opening. The PAO is relevant because air exposure can accelerate degradation, potentially reducing quality even if the printed expiration date is later.
Risks of Using Expired Cortisone Cream
Using cortisone cream past its expiration date carries several risks. The primary concern is reduced effectiveness. The active ingredient, hydrocortisone, can degrade over time, leading to a loss of potency. This means the cream may no longer effectively reduce inflammation or alleviate symptoms, potentially prolonging discomfort and delaying healing.
Expired topical creams can undergo chemical changes, potentially forming irritating substances. The preservative system might break down, making the cream susceptible to bacterial or fungal contamination. Applying a contaminated or degraded cream could result in new skin irritation, allergic reactions, or infections, especially if the skin barrier is compromised. Visual cues like changes in consistency, color, or unusual odor often signal degradation.
Proper Storage and Disposal
Proper storage is essential to maintain cortisone cream’s stability and effectiveness until its expiration date. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Manufacturers recommend room temperature, typically 15-30 degrees Celsius (59-86 degrees Fahrenheit). Keeping the cap tightly closed after each use protects the cream from air exposure and contamination.
When cortisone cream expires or is no longer needed, proper disposal is important to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination. Do not flush it or throw it directly into household trash where children or pets could access it. The most recommended method is through drug take-back programs, often available at local pharmacies, law enforcement agencies, or DEA-sponsored events. If a take-back program is unavailable, mix medications with an undesirable substance like coffee grounds or cat litter, place in a sealed plastic bag, and discard in household trash. Remove or obscure personal information on packaging before disposal.