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Ask an Expert: Medications and Your Health
Click here to ask Daniel Kim a question about medications and your health
Question Archive
I left my unopened bottle of Xalatan™ at room temperature for 2 weeks. Is it still okay to use it? I now have it in the refrigerator.
Daniel Kim's Response
Some medications need to be refrigerated to prolong shelf-life or to minimize the growth of bacteria. Every product is different and has different requirements for storage. If you are not sure how to store your medication, be sure to ask your pharmacist.
You should always check the expiry date of your medication. If it has passed, discard the medication and refill your prescription as needed.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
For latanoprost (Xalatan™) eye drops, you should store unopened bottles in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. After opening, you can store them at room temperature, up to 25°C, for up to 6 weeks. After this time, you should not use the eye drops and should discard them.
In your case, since they were stored at room temperature, they are only good for 6 weeks, starting on the first day they were left out of the refrigerator. If you are still within that period, then the drops are okay to use. If more than 6 weeks have passed you should discard the drops and request a refill. Don't forget to protect Xalatan™ from light. Light can cause the medication to be less effective.
Click here to ask Daniel Kim a question about Medications and Your Health
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