Hydrocortisone cream is a common over-the-counter medication used to treat minor skin irritations, such as itching, rashes, and inflammation caused by insect bites, poison ivy, or eczema. The active ingredient is a corticosteroid, which works by reducing the body’s inflammatory response in the skin. Like all medications, hydrocortisone cream does expire. The expiration date is the manufacturer’s guarantee that the product is safe and fully potent up to that specific time when stored correctly. Using expired medicine primarily risks a loss of the intended therapeutic effect and potential complications.
Why Hydrocortisone Cream Loses Potency
The chemical structure of the active drug, hydrocortisone, is not permanent and begins to break down over time. This process, known as chemical degradation, reduces the amount of effective medication present in the cream. As the hydrocortisone molecule degrades, the cream becomes less potent, meaning it may not effectively treat the itching or inflammation it is intended to relieve.
Topical creams and ointments are formulated with preservatives and a base to keep the mixture stable and inhibit microbial growth. Over time, these preservatives can break down, increasing the risk of contamination. Once the tube is opened, the cream is exposed to air, moisture, and potential bacteria or fungi. Using a contaminated cream, particularly on broken skin, can introduce pathogens, potentially leading to a skin infection.
Factors That Affect Shelf Life
The printed expiration date refers to the product’s stability when unopened and stored under ideal conditions. External factors can accelerate degradation, causing the cream to become less effective sooner. Exposure to temperature extremes is particularly damaging, as high heat speeds up the chemical breakdown of the hydrocortisone molecule and the base ingredients. Storing the cream in high humidity, such as a steamy bathroom cabinet, or exposing it to direct sunlight can also compromise the formulation. Maintaining a consistent room temperature, away from windows and heat sources, maximizes the product’s shelf life.
Regardless of the printed date, visual inspection can reveal if the cream has gone bad. Physical changes indicate that the product’s chemical composition has been compromised. These changes include a change in color, a separation of the texture, or the presence of an unusual odor. If the cream appears watery, oily, or grainy compared to its original state, it should not be used.
Safe Use and Disposal Guidelines
Once opened, a cream’s shelf life is typically reduced, often lasting only six months to one year. Using expired or compromised hydrocortisone cream should be avoided. Reduced potency means a skin condition will not be properly treated, prolonging discomfort and potentially worsening the issue. The risk of introducing microbial contamination outweighs any benefit of using an old tube.
Hydrocortisone cream is an Over-the-Counter (OTC) drug, and disposal should follow specific guidelines to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination. The best method for discarding expired medication is using a drug take-back program or a community drop-off location, often found at pharmacies or police stations. If a take-back option is unavailable, the FDA recommends disposing of the cream in the household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance. This involves removing the cream from its container, mixing it with material like used coffee grounds, dirt, or kitty litter, and sealing the mixture in a bag before placing it in the trash.