Storing medicines correctly is just as important as taking them correctly. Improper storage can degrade the active ingredients in a medicine, making it less effective — or in some cases, unsafe. Here is what you need to know.
Temperature: The Most Critical Factor
Most medicines should be stored at room temperature — between 15°C and 25°C. Zambia's climate can get very warm, so be mindful of where you keep your medicines.
- Avoid storing medicines in the bathroom — heat and humidity from showers accelerate degradation.
- Do not leave medicines in a parked car — car interiors can reach over 60°C.
- Some medicines require refrigeration — such as insulin, certain eye drops, and some antibiotics. Check the label. If it says "Store between 2°C and 8°C," it must be in the fridge — not frozen.
Light and Humidity
Many medicines are sensitive to light. This is why some tablets come in amber-coloured bottles or opaque blister packs.
- Keep medicines in their original packaging as much as possible.
- Store in a cool, dark place — a bedroom drawer or a dedicated medicine cabinet away from the kitchen or bathroom is ideal.
- Humidity speeds up tablet breakdown — silica gel sachets in medicine boxes are there for a reason. Keep them in.
Safe Storage Around Children
This is a matter of safety, not just medicine effectiveness.
- Keep all medicines in a locked cabinet or at a height children cannot reach.
- Child-resistant caps are not childproof — a determined toddler can open them.
- Never refer to medicine as "sweets" to encourage a child to take it — this creates dangerous associations.
- If a child accidentally swallows medicine, call Poison Control or go to the nearest hospital immediately.
Do Not Mix Medicines Together
Storing different medicines in a single container — even temporarily — is a bad idea:
- Labels get separated from pills.
- Different medicines can absorb moisture at different rates, accelerating degradation of both.
- Look-alike tablets can be confused, leading to medication errors.
When in Doubt, Check the Label
Every medicine pack in Zambia is required to carry:
- Recommended storage conditions
- Expiry date
- Manufacturing batch number
If your medicine has changed colour, smell, or texture — even before the expiry date — do not use it. Return it to your pharmacy.
Medicine Disposal
Do not flush expired medicines down the toilet or throw them in open bins. Bring them back to Hanbet Pharmacy — we accept expired medications for safe disposal.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always read the package insert supplied with your medicine and consult a qualified healthcare professional or pharmacist if you have any concerns about your medication.