Can you still use expired ointment?

If you’re treating a wound that’s infected—it’s red, painful, and oozing pus—or if the wound still looks dirty after washing it, our experts say it’s fine to use Neosporin topical ointment within a year after it’s expired.

Do creams and ointments expire?

Check pharmacy label. (creams /ointments) Tubs 1 month once opened Pump dispensers Manufacturer’s expiry date Tubes 3 months once opened unless manufacturer advises otherwise. Liquids / lotions 6 months once opened unless manufacturer advises otherwise.

When should ointment be discarded?

the product must be discarded X days or months after first opening. If this is the case, the manufacturer will print a once-opened/discard-by date on the package. It may also be written in the patient information leaflet.

How long does ointment last after opening?

From the moment a carton is opened, the product is no longer sterile. This is why it states on the packaging the product should be consumed quickly, usually within 3 or 4 days after opening, whilst the product retains its flavour and nutritional quality. After opening, keep cream refrigerated.

Does erythromycin ophthalmic ointment expire?

Throw away any unused ointment after the expiration date.

How long is ointment good for once opened?

Topical ointments: Antibacterial ointments like Neosporin are safe to use up to a year after they expire. But we wouldn’t push it much past that, especially if you’re dealing with open cuts.

How long can you keep ointment?

How long will cream be good after it is opened? The cream should be good until the date on the carton or 7-10 days after opening–whichever date comes first. Keep it in the back of the refrigerator (where it is coldest) for maximum shelf life.

Can you use expired Zovirax ointment?

Do not use Zovirax ophthalmic ointment if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering. Do not use Zovirax ophthalmic ointment if the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack has passed. If you use this medicine after the expiry date has passed, it may not work as well.

Does Neosporin actually expire?

Each tube of Neosporin includes an expiration date. Before each use, check the expiration date to make sure it’s safe to use. Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, the manufacturer of Neosporin, advises throwing away the tube if it has surpassed its printed expiration date.

Can you use expired antibiotics?

Certain expired medications are at risk of bacterial growth and sub-potent antibiotics can fail to treat infections, leading to more serious illnesses and antibiotic resistance. “Once the expiration date has passed there is no guarantee that the medicine will be safe and effective,” says Bernstein. “If your medicine has expired, do not use it.”

Is it OK to use expired Neosporin?

It can be, but there are other good reasons to skip this first-aid remedy. If you’re treating a wound that’s infected—it’s red, painful, and oozing pus—or if the wound still looks dirty after washing it, our experts say it’s fine to use Neosporin topical ointment within a year after it’s expired.