Ditch the outof-date meds

manufacturers give medicines expiry dates based on stability and quality testing. ‘after this date, the active ingredient may degrade into inactive compounds, making it non-effective or leading to unpredictable side effects, such as an upset stomach or skin rash,’ says pharmacist angela chalmers. never take medicine that’s out of date. if you can’t find an expiry date, check for changes in appearance (has a liquid separated or changed colour) and texture (tablets becoming softer, crumbling or sticking together). if in doubt, ask your pharmacist for advice.