Guide
Storing medicines and the expiry date
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Correct storage preserves the effectiveness and safety of medicines, and respecting the expiry date matters so you do not take a product that no longer works reliably. Below we explain how to store medicines, what the expiry date means and how to dispose of old ones. Always check the specific instructions in each product's leaflet.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
How to store correctly
Most medicines are stored in a cool, dry, dark place, away from direct light, heat and moisture, and out of children's reach. The bathroom and near the stove are often unsuitable because of moisture and heat. Some products (e.g. certain syrups, insulin, some drops) need a fridge — check the leaflet.
What the expiry date means
The expiry date is the date until which the manufacturer guarantees quality with correct storage. After it, the medicine may have lost some of its effectiveness or may not be safe. For products marked 'use within … after opening', the shorter period after first opening applies — note the date.
When to throw a medicine away
Throw away medicines that are expired, have a changed colour, smell or consistency, broken tablets, separated creams or solutions with sediment. Do not use a product that does not look right, even if it has not expired. If unsure, ask a pharmacist.
How to dispose safely
Do not throw medicines in the toilet, sink or ordinary rubbish, so they do not pollute the environment or end up with children or animals. In Bulgaria, many pharmacies accept unusable medicines for safe disposal — take them there in the original packaging.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a medicine after the expiry date?
It is not recommended. After the expiry date, the medicine may have lost some of its effectiveness, and for some products safety is not guaranteed. Check the date before use and replace expired ones, especially medicines for emergencies.
Do all medicines need a fridge?
No. Most are stored at room temperature, in a dry, dark place. Only certain products (e.g. some syrups after opening, insulin, some drops) need a fridge. Always check the storage instruction in the specific product's leaflet.
Can I keep medicines in the bathroom?
The bathroom is often unsuitable because of the moisture and temperature swings that can degrade some medicines. Better choose a dry, cool place out of children's reach. Check the leaflet for the specific storage conditions.
What does 'shelf life after opening' mean?
Some products (e.g. syrups, eye drops, creams) have a shorter shelf life once opened, even if the pack shows a longer overall date. Note the opening date and do not use the product after the stated period after opening.
How do I dispose of old medicines in Bulgaria?
Do not throw them in the toilet or rubbish. Many pharmacies in Bulgaria accept unusable medicines for safe disposal — take them in the original packaging and ask your local pharmacy about the procedure. This avoids pollution and accidental ingestion.