AboutMichael Anisfeld Expertise Disclaimer:
SORRY BUT I DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS RELATED TO: DRUG ACTIONS/INTERACTIONS, INTERNET DRUG PURCHASES, RESULTS OF DRUG TESTS, IDENTIFYING DRUGS (FOR WHICH YOUR LOCAL PHARMACIST IS THE BEST PERSON TO CONSULT).
My expertise is answering questions relating to pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality technologies, drug regulations and specifically GMP requirements
Experience
Past/Present Clients UN agencies (UNFPA, UNICEF, UNIDO)
Governments (Australia, Canada, India, United Kingdon, United States
Companies - over 200 companies in 37 countries
Question How long can erythromycin and Augmentin last in the bottles that are dispensed from the pharmacy? When I travel, I take antibiotics with me into some very hot places for extended periods of time(africa, Amazon etc.) The temperature can be over 100 degrees F for weeks at a time. Is it still safe to take the erythromycin or augmentin when stored under these circumstances? They are always kept dry but what about the temps?
Answer Mark:
I sympathize, I too travel a lot to Africa and South East Asia, and have the same exact problems.
All expiration dates for products prescribed/dispensed in the USA are based on accelerated stability studies performed at US/European temperatures and humidities(30oC/60%rH. Other conditions apply for the same drug available in the tropics.
Three advises:
a. call the manufacturer directly for any advise (call the pharmacist's special phone)
b. when overseas see if the product is sold locally and check what dating has been provided.
c. when overseas, if you have a hotel refrigerated mini-bar, store the drugs in there.
Most solid dosage forms have a minimum 2 year expiration dating.
