Why Proper Storage Matters
Medications are sensitive products. Heat, moisture, and light can break down active ingredients or render them ineffective. In the worst case, harmful degradation products can form. Storing medications correctly protects not only their effectiveness but also the safety of the person receiving care.
Basic Rules for Medication Storage
- Cool and dry: Most medications belong in a cool, dry place at 15–25 °C. The bathroom is unsuitable due to moisture.
- Protect from light: Many active ingredients are light-sensitive. Leave medications in their original packaging and store them in a closed cabinet.
- Refrigerate when required: Some medications – such as insulin, certain eye drops, or antibiotic syrups – must be stored in the refrigerator at 2–8 °C. Do not freeze.
- Keep original packaging: The patient information leaflet contains important details. The packaging also protects against light and damage.
- Store safely away from children: Even if no children live in the household, visiting children or grandchildren could be at risk.
Common Storage Mistakes
These errors occur in many households:
- Medications on the windowsill: Direct sunlight and heat damage most medicines.
- Storage in the car: In summer, temperatures in a car can exceed 50 °C – medications become unusable.
- Loose tablets without labels: When tablets are removed from packaging and stored loosely, there is a risk of mix-ups.
- Using expired medications: The expiration date is binding. Expired medications should be returned to the pharmacy for proper disposal.
Medications and Weekly Pill Organizers
Weekly pill organizers are practical for maintaining an overview. But be careful:
- Not all medications are suitable for organizers – some must remain in their blister packs
- Clean organizers regularly
- Only prepare one week at a time, no longer
- Protect from moisture and light
Do Not Forget Inventory Checks
Regularly check your medication supply: Are all needed medications on hand? Are expiration dates still valid? Are there medications that are no longer prescribed and should be disposed of? Keep a list and compare it with the current medication plan. With mendracare, you always have the medication plan at hand and can immediately see which medicines are currently needed.
Disposing of Medications Safely
Medications that are no longer needed or have expired do not belong in household waste or the toilet. Take them to the pharmacy or contact your local waste authority about the correct disposal method in your area.
