Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) should be thrown away when the counter reaches “0” or three months after you take it out of its foil pouch, whichever comes first.
To find the specific shelf life of your Symbicort inhaler or Turbohaler, check the expiration date printed on the medication's packaging.
Is it safe to use Symbicort past its expiration date?
The FDA states that people should not be tempted to use medications past their expiration dates. The expiration date is there to ensure that the medication remains safe and effective for the conditions it was approved to treat.
Over time, the chemical composition of a product like the Symbicort Turbuhaler can change in ways that make the medication unsafe or ineffective. Some medications can be at risk for bacterial growth that can lead to other health problems. [1]
There is also a chance that medications left in cabinets past their expiration date are at risk for being used for reasons they were not intended for and may be a risk for children and pets.
Therefore, it is recommended to discard any medication that is past its expiration date. It is essential to follow your Symbicort dosage instruction.
How do I properly store Symbicort?
To help ensure that your medication remains safe and effective, you should always follow the storage instructions from the manufacturer.
You should store Symbicort:
- At room temperature between 68° F to 77° F (20° C to 25° C)
- With the mouthpiece down
- Out of reach of children
It can be dangerous if you do not follow the manufacturer's storage instructions for Symbicort because its contents are under pressure.
Therefore, it should not be punctured and should not be thrown into a fire or incinerator. It should not be stored above 120°F or near an open flame. Storing it above 120°F can cause the canister to burst. [2]
If you have any other questions about how to properly store your Symbicort inhaler, consult your pharmacist for additional information. If you are looking for more Symbicort articles or how to find discount Symbicort prices, visit My Drug Center.
DISCLAIMER: The information in the article is not meant to be used for treatment or diagnosis. It is designed for general awareness and for information purposes only. Always consult a medical professional for your specific healthcare needs.
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