B12 expiry date

[Wellington1]

Hi all. I have around 20 vials of B12 and have just checked the expiry date. It is the end of this month! 🙄Is the expiry date fixed, or am I able to use them safely for a period of time after the expiry date? I assume the effectiveness of the B12 may be compromised after the expiry date? 🤔

[Nackapan]

There are mixed views on this.Also depends on how stored.

Has to be below 25c and in the dark.

I've alot on but became convinced my b12 with exp. Nov 23 was less effective .

I tried a new b12 ampoule exp 06/ 26 and was much more effective.

I personally don't use them after they expire as have s good supply presently .

[wedgewood]

They are probably OK still. for a little longer because I’m sure that a bit of a safety margin is built in to the expiry date . But psychologically I know that I would be affected and be convinced that they were not so effective ! The mind is a powerful thing ! So personally I wouldn’t use them. But in any event , you wouldn't do yourself any harm. by using them for a little longer .

[am111]

They are not dangerous, but effectiveness could be reduced a bit. I think you can still use them, but may have to increase the frequency. For instance, if you are injecting once-a-month, you may need every 3 weeks or so. If you are injecting more frequently, it may be more difficult to calibrate the increased dose/frequency needed and you may wish to take the safer option of using fresh vials.

[Orchard33]

Watch out for a return of symptoms up to 3 months before expiry. It happened to me and I had to move on to a box with a long expiry date.

[Cornwaller]

I have used ampoules a month or two after the expiry date and they were fine. As others have said the storage conditions are probably as important and whilst the efficacy might have declined slightly it is unlikely to drop from say 95% to 0% at midnight on the night of expiry! But I guess there is some risk as they become older....

Best wishes

[tomdickharry]

I was in a similar position last year. Expiry date July 2022 but all suppliers were out of stock so continued with old ones. After about three months I noticed a return of symptoms but had to continue until I got fresh stock. Now recovering, thankfully.

My advice would be to continue using them but replace as soon as possible.

[Wellington1]

Thanks all! I'll use them until I can get a new batch. Best wishes x