Most people store their medications in the bathroom medicine cabinet. Most pharmacists cringe when they hear that. Here is why — and what to do instead.
Why Bathroom Storage Is a Problem
Bathrooms are warm and humid, especially after showers. Heat and moisture accelerate medication breakdown. A pill stored incorrectly can lose its potency long before its expiry date, meaning you may be taking something that no longer works.
The Right Way to Store Medications at Home
Cool, dry, dark locations are ideal. A bedroom drawer, a kitchen cabinet away from the stove, or a dedicated lockable box all work well.
Temperature: Most medications should be stored between 15°C and 25°C. Check your label — some, like insulin and certain eye drops, require refrigeration.
Light: Direct sunlight degrades many drugs. Keep medications in their original containers, which are designed to block light.
Children and pets: Store all medications out of reach. Accidental ingestion is one of the most common pediatric emergencies in Canada.
Medications That Need Special Attention
- Insulin and biologics: Must be refrigerated; never frozen
- Nitroglycerin tablets: Sensitive to heat, light, and plastic — keep in original glass bottle
- Compounded medications: Follow the storage label prepared by our pharmacists precisely
- Liquid antibiotics: Most require refrigeration and must be discarded after 10–14 days
Ask Your Pharmacist
At Wishing Well Pharmacy in Stouffville, our pharmacists include personalized storage instructions with every prescription. If you are unsure how to store any medication, ask us — it takes 30 seconds and could make a real difference in your treatment outcomes.