Does Lexapro expire? (3+ contributing factors)

In this article, we will discuss whether Lexapro has an expiration date or not. We will also discuss the importance of expiration date, factors that can affect Lexapro’s shelf life, the harms of using expired Lexapro and tips for managing dangers if you have taken expired Lexapro.

Does Lexapro expire?

Yes, Lexapro like all other medications has an expiry date. This date is usually printed on the packaging and you must adhere to this date and not use the medication after it has expired. If you have Lexapro that has passed its expiration date, you must throw it away. (1,2)

The expiration date indicates the period during which the medication is effective, stable and can be used. Using medications after their expiration date could be risky because the chemical composition of the drug may change over time, potentially affecting its safety and efficacy. (3)

If you need to continue using Lexapro or any other medication, consult with your healthcare provider to obtain a new prescription. 

What is the shelf life of Lexapro?

The shelf life of escitalopram is about 24 months from the date of manufacture. The shelf life or expiration date of medication is generally written on the packaging or the prescription bottle. Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) comes in two forms, tablets and oral solution.

The tablets of Lexapro are round and have a coating. They come in three strengths which are 5mg, 10mg and 20mg. The 10 and 20mg tablets have a middle line (scored) that helps you split the tablet into two halves for your convenience of administration. 

Lexapro oral solution is the liquid form of medication, In each millilitre (ml) of the liquid there is an amount of escitalopram oxalate equal to 1mg. 

What factors can affect Lexapro’s shelf life? 

Several factors can affect the shelf life of Lexapro (escitalopram). Here are some factors that can influence the shelf life of Lexapro: (4)

• Storage conditions: Proper storage is important. Lexapro should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. The room temperature ranges from 15 to 30 degrees is considered ideal for escitalopram storage. 
• Temperature: Extreme hot or cold temperatures can mess with how Lexapro works. So make sure it doesn’t get too hot or too cold where you store it.
• Container type: The container that holds Lexapro is designed to protect it from light and moisture. Keep it close tightly when you’re not using it.
• Exposure to air: Opening and closing the medication container frequently can expose the contents to air, potentially affecting the stability of the drug. 
• Expiration date: There’s a date on the package that tells you when Lexapro might not work as well. Using Lexapro beyond its expiration date is not recommended.
• Contamination: Avoid contaminating your medication. Don’t touch the medicine with dirty hands and don’t transfer it to other containers.
• Quality of manufacturing: The quality of the manufacturing process and the packaging materials used can impact the stability of medication. 

If you have any concerns about the quality or shelf life of Lexapro, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Can expire Lexapro be harmful?

Using Lexapro after its expiration date is not recommended like every other medication. Although it is unlikely to be harmful, the effectiveness and safety of the medication can not be guaranteed after the expiration date. Here are some reasons why you should be careful: (3,4)

• Decreased effectiveness: Expired medications may not work as effectively as they did before.
• Changes in chemical composition: The chemical makeup of a medication can change over time and using expired Lexapro can expose you to unknown or unintended substances.
• Risk of contamination: The stability of Lexapro may be compromised after the expiration date is passed, increasing the risk of contamination or spoilage.

While using expired Lexapro is not typically associated with significant harm, it’s always best to be cautious. If you have expired medication kindly dispose of it properly. 

How can you identify if Lexapro has gone bad?

If you suspect that your medication has gone bad, it’s important to look for some signs of degradation. Here are some general ways to detect it: (5)

Inspect the appearance: Have a good look at the physical appearance of the tablets or oral solution. If you see any changes in colour, texture or unusual spots that were not present before, don’t use it.

Smell the medication: If there is a change in the smell of the medication like it smells strange or rancid, this could be a sign of degradation and the medicine is possibly spoiled.  

Check the expiration date: All medications including Lexapro have their date of expiration after which they can’t be used as they lose their effectiveness. It’s crucial to check the label of medicine if you suspect any changes in its physical or chemical form. 

What to do if you have used expired Lexapro?

If you have used an expired Lexapro (escitalopram), here are some steps you can take. Monitor your side effects and keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms. It’s essential to be vigilant for any unexpected reactions.

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms or have questions about using expired medication. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation. (3,4)

Safely dispose of any remaining expired Lexapro. Do not keep or use medications that have passed their expiration date, as their safety and effectiveness may be compromised. (4)

Obtain a new prescription if you still need to take Lexapro to manage your condition. Learn from your experience, use this as a reminder to check expiration dates on medications regularly and be mindful of proper storage practices. (3,4)

In my opinion, it’s crucial to pay attention to the expiration dates of medications like Lexapro. While using expired Lexapro might not lead to severe harm, it’s wise to prioritize safety and effectiveness.

Adhering to the expiration date ensures that the medication retains its intended properties and is more likely to provide the expected therapeutic benefits.

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