Álvaro Fernández, pharmacist: "If you take expired paracetamol or ibuprofen, the effect will be less severe."

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are among the most commonly used medications in Spanish homes to combat fever and relieve pain. Although they share this general purpose, they have fundamental differences : while ibuprofen acts as an effective anti-inflammatory against muscle injuries, menstrual cramps, or arthritis, paracetamol is primarily prescribed for ailments that do not involve inflammation.

Due to their over-the-counter availability and common use, it's not uncommon for them to remain stored for long periods. This raises a common question: What are the consequences of taking one of these drugs after its expiration date?

Is expired medicine safe?

During his appearance on the Herrera program on COPE ( Spanish radio station), pharmacist Álvaro Fernández , widely followed on social media for his educational work, clarified the effects of taking medications past their expiration date. When asked about expired paracetamol or ibuprofen, he stated: "Well, generally what happens is that the drug's effect will be less. What we usually see is a reduction in its efficacy. So we can't guarantee that if you take an antibiotic, you're taking it at the required dose."

These statements underscore that the main risk is not toxicity, but rather that the drug may not fulfill its therapeutic function . In more serious cases, such as antibiotic treatments, an ineffective dose can compromise recovery or contribute to the development of resistance.

The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) clearly warns: "Do not take expired medications." According to this organization, the expiration date is not arbitrary, but rather the result of analyses that study how the medication's composition evolves under different environmental conditions.

Once this date has passed, three main effects can be observed: reduced efficacy, loss of safety guarantees, and the appearance of impurities . Therefore, it is recommended to always check the packaging before consuming any pharmaceutical product and consult a professional if you have any questions.

Another fundamental aspect is proper storage of medications , especially during hot weather. The Spanish Agency for Medical Research (AEMPS) reminds us that high temperatures can alter the quality of the medication. Therefore, it recommends storing them in cool, dry places away from direct light. Furthermore, many medications require special storage conditions, which are indicated in the package insert. Ignoring these instructions can accelerate their deterioration, even before the expiration date.