Glossary of Clinical Terms

Expiry, in the context of medication or drugs, refers to the date after which medication is no longer considered safe or effective for use. The expiry date is usually printed on the medication label, packaging, or insert and it is determined through extensive stability studies conducted by the manufacturer. Over time, the chemical composition of medications may change due to various factors such as exposure to heat, light, moisture, or air, which can affect the safety and efficacy of the medication.

1. The expiry date is the manufacturer’s guarantee that the medication will remain stable and effective up until that date, provided it has been stored under appropriate conditions. It is important to not use the medication after its expiry date, as it may no longer be effective, or it may have degraded into harmful compounds that could cause serious side effects or illness.

2. In the B2B world, analyzing different expiration lots of a product is important because it can provide valuable insights into how the product will perform closer to expiry or with a longer shelf life. This analysis can assist businesses in making sound decisions about inventory management, production planning, and supply chain optimization. When comparing expiration lots, several factors must be considered, including the product’s composition, stability, and expected shelf life. Another important factor to consider when comparing expiration lots is the potential impact of degradation on the efficacy or safety of the product. Some products may become less effective or even dangerous as they approach their expiration date, whereas others may remain stable and safe to use after they have expired.

3. When conducting product research, people prefer products with an expiry date of >18 months. This is because a longer expiry date can ensure that the product remains viable and effective throughout the duration of the research. If the expiry date is too close, the product may become ineffective or unsafe before the research is finished, compromising the study’s results.