How To Store Drugs Safely

The following rules for storing drugs properly are important to follow to maximize the effect of a medication. See the other sections of this article for information about each rule.

• Store drugs in their original container.
  • To eliminate the risk of confusing one medicine with another, store drugs in the original container, with the label which identifies it and gives directions, as well as the person for whom it was prescribed.
  • If you choose to use an over-the-counter convenience container, ask the pharmacist whether the container will affect the stability of your medicine.
• Store drugs in a cool, dry place -- not the bathroom
  • According to the government: "Never store medicine in the bathroom. Unless instructed otherwise, keep it away from heat, light and moisture." Pills, tablets and other dry medicines are broken down by moisture. Medicated liquids and creams can be broken down by light or heat.
  • Store drugs in a cool, dry place, in your bedroom - for example in a drawer or in an inexpensive fishing tackle box.
• Do not store drugs in a refrigerator unless requested to keep a medication refrigerated. 
  • Refrigeration may cause medications to break down. 
  • Liquids can separate when refrigerated altering dosages.
• Keep tubes of ointment or creams away from your toothpaste.
  • Tubes can feel very similar when making a quick grab on a rushed morning. The results can leave more that just a bad taste in your mouth.
• Never leave your medications in your car or glove box of your car.
• Keep your family's medications separate from those of household chemicals. Mix-ups happen and they have the potential to be dangerous.
• Keep drugs out of reach of children and pets. 
  • Some drugs are safer if kept under lock and key.
  • If you have children, or children come to your home, make sure that child safety caps are always secured.

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