Correct storage of medicines such as antibiotics (and vaccines) will ensure best effect of these treatments. You should store them:
- In line with manufacturer’s guidance, given on labelling
- Safely, with restricted access if required, to avoid unauthorised, accidental or incorrect use
- Out of reach of children
Correct disposal prevents accidental use of antibiotics which are past their ‘use by’ date and thereby ineffective, prevents environmental contamination, so helping to minimise AMR
- You should always complete an antibiotic course, but unused antibiotics should never be allowed into the environment or flushed down the toilet, rather you should return them to your vet
- Always consult your vet on safe disposal of antibiotics, containers and sharps