How to Properly Store Medicines to Avoid Poisoning

Photo source: Tima Miroshnichenko

Knowing how to store medicines properly helps ensure they remain effective and safe to use. It prevents damage caused by factors like heat, moisture, or light, which can reduce their potency.

Proper storage also minimises the risk of accidental ingestion or contamination, protecting both seniors and others in the household. 

If you’re unsure how to store medicines that you usually keep at home for convenience and health management, here are some tips to take note of.

Tips on organising and storing medicines at home

Keep medicines in a cool and dry place

Medicines can lose their effectiveness or become harmful if exposed to heat, humidity, or light. Bathrooms and kitchens may seem convenient, but steam from showers or cooking can damage medicines. Instead, keep medications in a cool, dry spot such as a bedroom drawer, a cabinet away from heat sources, or a shelf in a temperature-stable room. Avoid places near stoves, sinks, or direct sunlight to maintain medicine potency.

Keep medicines out of reach and sight of children

Accidental ingestion by children is a leading cause of medicine poisoning. Always store medicines well out of reach and out of sight of kids and grandchildren. Use high shelves, locked cabinets, or childproof containers to secure medications. 

Never mix different medicines in one container

To avoid confusion and accidental overdose, do not mix different pills in the same bottle or container. Keep each medication separate and clearly labelled. Using a pill organiser is helpful, but keep the original packaging to reference dosage and instructions as needed.

Check expiration dates and dispose of unused medicines safely

Expired or unused medicines can be ineffective or dangerous. Make it a habit to check expiration dates every six months and get rid of old medicines following local pharmacy or community disposal programmes. Never flush medicines down the toilet or throw them in the trash where they could harm the environment or others.

Use good lighting near medicine storage

Make sure the medicine storage area is well-lit so seniors can read labels clearly and avoid mistakes. Taking medicines in poor lighting increases the risk of wrong dosages or mixing up medications.

Proper storage, handling, and disposal collectively reduce the risk of accidental poisoning and ensure that medicines remain safe and effective for use.