Hydroxyzine is a prescription medication that functions as a first-generation antihistamine, primarily used to manage symptoms of anxiety and tension, or to relieve itching caused by allergic reactions. As a central nervous system depressant, it also has sedative properties, often used to promote sleep or as a pre-operative calmative. The expiration date represents the point up to which the manufacturer guarantees the drug’s full potency and safety. Taking hydroxyzine past this date introduces risks, mainly a loss of its intended therapeutic effect and the potential for chemical changes.
Loss of Effectiveness Over Time
The most common consequence of consuming expired hydroxyzine is a reduction in its strength or efficacy. Manufacturers determine the expiration date by conducting stability testing to ensure the drug retains at least 90% of its labeled potency when stored correctly. Once that date passes, the chemical structure of the active ingredient, hydroxyzine, begins to slowly degrade.
This gradual breakdown means a tablet may no longer deliver the full dose of active compound. For a person using the drug for anxiety, this loss of potency can lead to untreated or worsening symptoms. Similarly, if the medication is being used for severe itching, the diminished antihistamine effect may fail to provide adequate relief, allowing symptoms to persist. The older the medication becomes past its expiration date, the greater the likelihood that its potency has fallen to an ineffective level.
Potential for Chemical Degradation
While reduced potency is the typical outcome, a secondary risk of taking any expired medication is the potential for chemical degradation that forms new compounds. Hydroxyzine is generally stable and is not widely known to degrade into toxic substances under normal conditions. However, all pharmaceutical chemicals break down over time, creating breakdown products, or metabolites.
The stability of hydroxyzine is highly dependent on its storage environment; exposure to excessive heat, light, or humidity can significantly accelerate the decomposition process. If the pill or liquid appears discolored, has a strong, unusual odor, or shows signs of crumbling or contamination, it is a strong indicator that the chemical structure has been compromised. Ingesting a significantly degraded product, even if not directly toxic, could lead to unexpected side effects like stomach upset, nausea, or other adverse reactions.
Immediate Response if Expired Medication is Taken
If an expired dose of hydroxyzine has already been consumed, monitor for any unusual symptoms. Since the most likely outcome is reduced effectiveness, the initial concern is whether the underlying condition, such as anxiety or itching, is being managed. The user should watch closely for a lack of the drug’s expected sedative or antihistamine effect, which may necessitate consultation with a healthcare provider for an alternative.
If any unexpected or severe symptoms emerge, such as difficulty breathing, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention. Contact a poison control center for expert guidance or seek emergency medical care. It is important to know the drug’s original strength, the approximate expiration date, and the amount taken when speaking with medical professionals. Vulnerable populations, including young children or the elderly who may be more sensitive to chemical changes, warrant an immediate call to a healthcare professional.
Proper Storage and Disposal of Medications
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the drug’s integrity up to its expiration date. Hydroxyzine should be kept in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The medication should remain in its original, tightly closed container and be stored away from light and sources of high moisture, such as a bathroom medicine cabinet.
When the medication is expired or no longer needed, it must be disposed of safely to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse. The preferred method for disposal is utilizing a drug take-back program, often found at local pharmacies or police stations. If a take-back program is unavailable, hydroxyzine can be disposed of in the household trash by following specific steps. This involves removing the medication from its container, mixing it with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds or kitty litter, and then placing the mixture into a sealed bag or container before discarding it. Flushing medication down the toilet is discouraged unless the drug is on a specific FDA-approved flush list, which hydroxyzine is not.