Medicines should be stored and handled according to the label and product-specific instructions. Storage requirements differ, so a general website rule cannot replace the directions for the exact medicine.
Follow the storage statement
Check whether the medicine should be kept below a stated temperature, refrigerated, protected from light or moisture, kept in original packaging or stored in another specific way.
Heat and vehicles
Cars, mailboxes, sheds and other enclosed spaces can become much hotter than the surrounding air. Avoid leaving medicines in unsuitable heat unless the product information confirms that the conditions are acceptable.
Refrigerated or temperature-sensitive products
If a product requires refrigeration or another controlled temperature range, follow the supplied instructions and any delivery guidance. If you believe the required conditions were not maintained, seek product-specific advice before use.
Children and pets
Store medicines out of sight and reach of children and away from pets. Child-resistant packaging reduces risk but is not child-proof.
Expiry and disposal
Do not use a medicine past its expiry date unless an appropriately qualified professional has specifically advised otherwise. In Australia, unwanted medicines can often be returned to a participating pharmacy for safe disposal through the Return Unwanted Medicines program.
Travel
When travelling, keep medicines in labelled packaging and check airline, border and destination rules, particularly for prescription medicines and controlled substances.
If the label is unclear or you believe a storage requirement was not met, ask a pharmacist or the manufacturer for product-specific advice before using the medicine.