drugs
Drug Errors
Storing drugs properly
Pharmacists should store drugs in the proper manner. For example, many drugs must be kept away from heat, and some drugs must be refrigerated. Mail-order pharmacies must be careful that drugs do not get too hot during shipping. If people store drugs incorrectly at home, drugs are likely to decrease in strength long before the stated expiration date. People should check the label to see whether a drug needs to be stored in the refrigerator or kept cool. On the other hand, unnecessary precautions may make it harder for people to take drugs as directed and waste people's time. For example, unopenedinsulinshould be refrigerated, but an open bottle often can be stored safely outside the refrigerator. Additionally, if children do not have access to the drug, drugs can be stored in their original childproof containers with a non–childproof lid. 