Ibuprofen usually has an expiration date set by the manufacturer to guarantee its potency and safety. While it is advised not to take ibuprofen past its expiration date, studies and expert opinions show that ibuprofen tablets often remain effective and safe for use for a few months to even years after the expiry date, provided they have been stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light. Key points about ibuprofen expiration:
- The expiration date is the time frame the manufacturer has tested and assured the drug's full potency and safety.
- Ibuprofen tablets may remain potent and safe to take for several months or even years beyond the printed expiration date, but potency can gradually decrease.
- The main risk of using expired ibuprofen is reduced effectiveness, not necessarily harm.
- Liquid ibuprofen is more susceptible to losing potency and contamination, so it should be used more strictly by its expiration date and refrigerated.
- Proper storage is crucial to maintain potency: cool, dry, and away from sunlight.
- For ibuprofen tablets, it is generally acceptable to take them a few months past their expiry. Taking ibuprofen years past the expiry date is not recommended due to potential loss of potency and increased breakdown products.
In summary, ibuprofen typically expires within about 1 to 5 years from manufacture, but it can be used safely for some time beyond the expiration date with caution about reduced effectiveness. Liquid forms should be used more strictly by expiration, while tablets last longer if stored well.
