Do you keep medication in the bathroom? This is the mistake that ruins its effectiveness

Many people, out of habit or convenience, keep their medications in the bathroom medicine cabinet. It seems the most logical place: a cabinet at hand, near the mirror and the sink.

However, this common habit can be a serious mistake that decreases the effectiveness of drugs, shortens their shelf life and can even cause them to lose their properties prematurely. Knowing the reason and learning how to store them correctly is key to taking care of your health and that of your family.

Why shouldn’t medicines be stored in the bathroom?

The bathroom is one of the least recommended places to store medicines due to the environmental conditions that are generated in it:

• Excessive humidity: Showers and steam cause humidity to rise, and this alters the stability of tablets, capsules, and syrups.
• Sudden changes in temperature: between the heat of the hot water and the subsequent cooling, the environment is constantly changing, which deteriorates the active ingredients of the drugs.
• Exposure to light: Many bathrooms have intense artificial light or windows that allow sunlight to enter, factors that also affect the composition of the medications.

In short, moisture, heat, and light reduce the effectiveness of medications, making them less safe for use.

Where is the right place to store medicines?

Medicines should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place. Some recommended options are:

• Drawers or cupboards outside the kitchen and bathroom, preferably in the bedroom or in a hallway.
• Airtight organizer boxes, which protect blisters and containers from dust and moisture.
• Away from heat sources, such as stoves, radiators or places where the sun shines directly.

Tips for the correct storage of medicines

• Always follow the directions on the package: some medications require refrigeration (such as certain antibiotics in syrup).
• Keeps drugs in their original packaging: this avoids confusion and keeps the expiration date visible.
• Periodically check your first aid kit: discard expired medications or those with changes in color, smell or texture.
• Keep medications out of the reach of children: Use securely locked boxes or place them in high places.
• Avoid moving pills to unlabeled bottles: you may lose important information such as dosage, batch, and expiration date.