Do Expired Medications Still Work? The Science Behind Shelf Life and What It Means for Your Medicine Cabinet
Most Americans discard medications the moment the expiration date passes, but the science tells a more nuanced story. Understanding what expiration dates actually measure—and what they do not—can help budget-conscious patients make more informed decisions about their stockpiled prescriptions. This article examines the evidence, the regulations, and the practical realities of medication shelf life.