How to Store Amoxicillin and How Long Is It Good For?

Amoxicillin is a very prevalent antibiotic often prescribed for many bacterial infections. It is paramount to note that all antibiotics have a shelf life, and this drug is not exceptional. A drug shelf life is defined as the period it retains its potency. It starts on the day the drug is manufactured. This article will show the proper method to store amoxicillin and its shelf life.

How to Store Amoxicillin?

It's crucial to understand that amoxicillin liquids or suspensions can be stored either in your refrigerator or at room temperature. Refrigeration is highly recommended as it enhances the potency of the drug and is believed to improve its taste.

However, regardless of where you store your medication, all suspensions will expire after 14 days. It's vital to ensure that the bottle is tightly closed when storing amoxicillin in the fridge. Furthermore, remember to discard any remaining suspension after the 14-day period to maintain safety and effectiveness.

It's advisable to store your liquid amoxicillin in the fridge due to the presence of augmentin, a compound sensitive to heat. High temperatures can cause rapid deterioration of the medicine, leading to a loss of potency.

When refrigerating liquid amoxicillin, ensure it remains unfrozen to maintain its effectiveness.

For amoxicillin capsules or tablets, room temperature storage is suitable and won't affect their potency. Additionally, refrigerating these pills can help minimize any unpleasant odors they may emit.

Tablets and Capsules

Tablets or capsules generally have a longer shelf life compared to amoxicillin suspensions, typically lasting two to three years. However, pharmacists often label the expiration date as one year for caution.

When storing amoxicillin tablets and capsules, refrigeration is unnecessary; instead, keep them at room temperature. Ensure they are stored away from direct light or moisture to maintain their efficacy.

Suspension or Liquid Form

If your doctor prescribes the liquid form of amoxicillin, it's crucial to handle the storage with care. You have the option to store it either at room temperature or in the refrigerator, as mentioned earlier. Regardless of the storage method chosen, remember to discard the medicine after 14 days to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Typically, pharmacists prepare the powder form of the drug by mixing it with clean or distilled water. While the powder form of the amoxicillin medicine maintains its potency for two to three years, its shelf life decreases once mixed with water.