April 1, 2023

Storage of medications can be confusing; however, by following simple rules, this task can be simplified and easily achieved. For instance, as a rule, all medications should be stored in a medicine box, pill organizer, or their original containers in a cool, dry place, away from heat. My ideal places for medication storage are the bedroom, the living room, or any other cool, dry space dedicated for this purpose.

Medications that typically need refrigeration include insulins, reconstituted antibiotics (in their liquid form), some eye drops, some creams, and most liquid compounded medicines. If you are unsure about when to refrigerate a medicine, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist at the pickup counter. You can also ask for auxiliary stickers that say “refrigerate” to be placed on medications.

Do not panic if your medicine was outside the refrigerator for a few hours, as most medicines can have temperature excursions. When you find a refrigerated medicine that has been placed outside the refrigerator, just place the medicine back inside the refrigerator and keep taking its dosages as indicated. In my opinion, the most important strategy is to have a designated medication storage area (inside and outside the refrigerator) so that no dosage will be missed, and no medication will be misplaced within the house.