Don’t use expired amoxicillin. Taking expired medication might not provide the needed antibiotic effect, potentially worsening your infection.
Reduced Effectiveness
Amoxicillin’s potency degrades over time. This means the antibiotic concentration falls below the therapeutic level needed to fight bacteria. Consequently, your infection may not clear up, prolonging illness and potentially leading to complications.
Increased Risk of Side Effects
- Expired amoxicillin may contain harmful breakdown products. These byproducts can cause unexpected or intensified side effects. These side effects can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to more serious allergic reactions. Always monitor for unusual symptoms after taking any medication.
Treatment Failure
Failure to effectively treat an infection due to weakened amoxicillin can lead to chronic illness or more serious complications requiring stronger antibiotics and potentially longer hospital stays. Bacterial resistance can also increase.
Development of Antibiotic Resistance
Using ineffective doses of amoxicillin contributes to antibiotic resistance. This means future infections might be more difficult to treat.
What to Do
Discard expired amoxicillin properly, following your local waste disposal guidelines. Always check the expiration date before taking any medication. If you have questions about your prescription, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Never self-treat. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
