Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 9/4/2009

Question

Hi-

Can you tell me what the status of expired pills is? Will they still work? Are they dangerous? I found a pack of alprazolam that says expires in 2005. Can I still use it?

Thank you,

Ari

Answer
Dear Ari

Many drugs will be OK after their expiry date, especially if kept away from moisture and heat. Moisture can harm many drugs even before their expiry date. Only a few drugs become dangerous after their expiry date and alprazolam is not one of them. It is probably still very potent and will do know harm. However, it is a drug that should be treated with respect as it can cause extreme drowsiness and if taken frequently can be addictive,

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith