Why Storage Matters
Most people store medicines in the bathroom cabinet — which is actually one of the worst places due to humidity and heat from showers. Poor storage can cause medicines to break down faster, lose effectiveness, or even become harmful.
The Golden Rules of Medicine Storage
1. Keep Medicines Cool and Dry
Most medicines should be stored at room temperature: 15°C to 25°C. Avoid areas near:
- Stoves or ovens
- Windows with direct sunlight
- Bathroom cabinets (too humid)
- Car glove compartments (temperature swings)
A bedroom drawer or dedicated kitchen shelf away from heat is ideal.
2. Refrigerator — Only When Required
Some medicines must be refrigerated:
- Insulin and certain injectables
- Some liquid antibiotics after opening
- Certain eye drops
Check the label. If it says "store below 8°C" or "keep refrigerated," use the fridge — but never the freezer unless specifically instructed.
3. Keep Medicines in Original Packaging
The original packaging protects medicines from light and moisture and contains essential information:
- Expiry date
- Batch number
- Storage instructions
- Dosage information
Do not transfer medicines into unmarked containers.
4. Check Expiry Dates Every 6 Months
Set a reminder to go through your medicine cabinet every six months. Discard any medicine that:
- Has passed its expiry date
- Has changed colour, smell, or texture
- Has a broken seal or damaged packaging
Safe Disposal of Medicines
Never flush medicines down the toilet or throw them in regular rubbish — they can contaminate water supplies. Instead:
- Return unused medicines to a pharmacy
- Mix with coffee grounds or dirt and seal in a bag before binning (as a last resort)
Protecting Children
Accidental medicine ingestion is a leading cause of child poisoning. Always:
- Store medicines in child-resistant containers
- Keep medicines out of sight and reach — high shelves, locked cabinets
- Never call medicine "candy" or make it seem appealing to children
- Store your handbag medicines safely too
Quick Storage Reference
| Medicine Type | Storage Location | Notes |
| Tablets and capsules | Cool, dry shelf | Away from heat and moisture |
| Liquid medicines | Fridge if opened | Check label |
| Insulin | Fridge (not freezer) | Opened vials: room temp up to 28 days |
| Eye drops | Cool, dark place | Discard 4 weeks after opening |
| Creams and ointments | Room temperature | Keep lids tightly closed |
Proper storage ensures your medicines work when you need them most. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist — or contact MediStore's support team.