How Long Can Cephalexin Medicine Be Kept And Used?

Posted on Fri, 3 Aug 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 3 Aug 2018 Answered on

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : I had an urinary tract infection and took some medicine to the cottage to use. My husband got very ill while there and we did not stay. I forgot my medicine, It was Cephalexin 500 mg. It is 9 months old. Is it still safe to use? It has been in a dark medicine chest.

I have used this medication. My basic question is how long can I safely store this med before it loses its strength or is unsafe to use.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (46 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
If the medication is under the expiration date is safe to use.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

First of all, you should check the expiration date of the medication.
If the medication is under the expiration date the effectiveness is conserved and is safe to use.

It is important also to keep it at room temperature and in a dry,dark place.

You can store the medication in this conditions as long as it is under the expiration date.

Hope my answer was helpful. If you have further queries feel free to contact me again.

Regards,
Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi
General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T