Can I give an antibiotic if the expiration date has passed?

Question

my child was given an antibiotic for an ear infection. the next day he felt better and never wanted to swallow the antibiotic. a few days later the fever came back. the antibiotic was supposed to be thrown away on Sept. 20. can i give it to him now?

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello, thank you for your question! The stability of the antibiotic when reconstituted in the pharmacy is quite short. After the 20th, the product can start to degrade, become less effective, and could also become more easily contaminated... I therefore recommend that you do not use this product after the expiration date that is written on the label. I hope I have helped you, and I remain available if you have any further questions! Tom Samaha, pharmacist