Support Worker

Oxfordshire
Clinical Commissioning Group

Good Practice Guidance Q: Guidance on the Expiry Dates and Storage of Medicines in
Care Homes (with or without nursing)
There is much confusion about the issue of expiry dates within care homes. This has
led to issues with patient safety and the wastage of medication. National guidance is
not available for all products and this guidance will improve patient safety; reduce
wastage and support sensible medicine use in care homes.
Formulation
Tablets and capsules packed in MDS

Recommended expiry date
2 months

Tablets and capsules – in original blister/foil pack e.g.
prn medicines
Manufacturer's expiry date
Tablets and capsules - loose i.e. put into a bottle by the
pharmacy

Liquids (internal)

Six months from the dispensing date or manufacturer's
recommendation where shorter
Six months from date of opening or manufacturer's
recommendation where shorter

Liquids (external

Six months from the date of opening or
manufacturer's recommendation where shorter

Ointment / creams in tubes or with a pump dispenser

Six months from date of opening or manufacturer's
recommendation where shorter. For unopened
creams follow the manufacturer's expiry date

Ointment / creams in tubs with a lid

Three months from date of opening or manufacturer's
recommendation where shorter. For unopened
creams follow the manufacturer's expiry date
Manufacturer's expiry date

Suppositories / pessaries / rectal tubes / patches
Manufacturer's expiry date
Inhalers
Discard three months after opening unless
manufacturer advises other wise
Ear / nose drops and sprays
Discard one month after opening
Eye drops
Manufacturer's recommendation
Injections (except insulin)
Insulin should be stored in the fridge and can be kept
unopened until the expiry date. Once opened it can be
stored outside of the fridge for up to 28 days.
Insulin

Date produced and approved: November 2012; Date for Review: November 2014
Good Practice Guidance documents are believed to accurately...