Use and Care Manual

1. Gather all of your older adult’s medications in one spot
Gather all prescriptions, OTC products, and supplements as well as creams,
ointments, nasal sprays, eye drops, and liquid products.
Safely dispose of any loose tablets or capsules that you find (see tips in #4
below).
Set aside anything that isn’t stored in its original containers, not capped
properly, or with labels that have come off or are unreadable. All of these items
should be discarded (see #4 below).
2. Identify prescription medications that are old or no longer used
Separate the prescriptions that your older adult is currently taking from the
ones that your older adult no longer takes or that are expired.
The common definition of an expired prescription medicine is one year from
the date it was filled at the pharmacy. This date is found on the printed
pharmacy label.
If the medicine is in the original manufacturer’s bottle and for inhalers and eye
drops, the manufacturer’s expiration date can be used as long as the
medication has been stored properly (see tip #5 below).
3. Identify nonprescription medicines that are expired
Check expiration dates to identify all expired nonprescription medications. A
good rule of thumb is to discard products that are at least six months beyond
the expiration date.
Expiration dates are printed either on the label or directly on the bottle, usually
on the bottom or near the neck.
If the product comes in a box, the expiration date often is imprinted on one of
the ends.
For creams or ointments, look on the crimp at the bottom of the tube.
Note: For dietary supplements, including vitamins, the government does not
require an expiration date.