Questions on how to keep levo meds and shelf life

[Koola]

I ordered levo from Germany that arrived here in Greece during a heatwave, 40+ degrees Celcius. I kept them in the fridge and left them there, also to avoid changes in temperature later on. I’ve read since that room temperature is best. Was it a mistake?

How long after shelf life is over can you take levo? I’ve read different opinions: one to 6 months to a year to not at all.

Thanks in advance.

[RedApple Administrator]

Koola, Most levothyroxine can be used after expiry date, but it may gradually loose potency as time goes on. There's no hard and fast rule, and the different excipients in various brands might have differing effects on their shelf life.

A problem with keeping them in the fridge is the risk of condensation when you take them out. If you always only take out just what you need for the day, that's likely not an issue.

[Koola in reply to RedApple]

Thanks, Red apple.

[helvella Administrator]

My Vade Mecum has a page about expiry dates which illustrates the issue of using medicines past their use by dates.

helvella's Vade Mecum document is available here:

helvella - Vade Mecum for Thyroid

The term vade mecum means:

1. A referential book such as a handbook or manual.

2. A useful object, constantly carried on one’s person.

helvella.blogspot.com/p/hel...

[Koola in reply to helvella]

Thank you, Helvella.Hope I'll figure out how to download. 😀

[Charlie-Farley in reply to Koola]

I've got Helvella Blogspot pinned to my favorites bar! Right next to my YouTube link to Rumpole of the Bailey re-runs (only the classics on my shortcuts bar) 😂👍