Should we throw away our medicines after the ‘Best Before’ or Expiry date?

By NOSA WELLNESS WORLDBLOG, HEALTH AND WELLNESS, HEALTH EDUCATION AND PROMOTION
Should we throw away our medicines after the ‘Best Before’ or Expiry date?

Introduction

One of man’s best inventions is drugs, especially disease-specific ones. Drugs are substances other than food, which can prevent, relieve the symptoms, or cure an abnormality or disease. Globally, the cost of drugs has soared over the years, resulting in a situation whereby low-income earners are unable to buy branded medications. In underdeveloped and developing countries where food and drug agencies have poor capacity to perform their regulatory functions optimally, we tend to see the proliferation of substandard or fake drugs. So many times, this ugly trend is energized by not just greed but by the market demands for affordable medications.

Why Medication exceeds expiry date

 To mitigate the challenge of not being able to buy drugs, when necessary, people from resource-limited settings stack up some essential medications in their homes, which eventually exceed the best before or expiry dates on them. Sometimes, doctors could change a patient’s prescription because of reactions, allergies, or inability to purchase the drug, which could result in leftover drugs that eventually exceed the expiration date. Also, big pharmacies and patent-drug stores cannot sell all their stock, leading to the expiration of some drugs. This situation has raised many questions about the safety of these drugs after their expiration or beyond the “best before” date. Because of the importance of drugs and the health risks involved when taken wrongly, people have always consciously discarded unused drugs when it’s past the expiration date, even one day.

How Safe is a drug after the expiry date?

The debate about drugs being safe after their expiration date has persisted over the years, as many people still hold the opinion that pharmaceutical companies deliberately label their drugs with short shelf lives to guarantee steady patronage. Eventually, most of these unused drugs are discarded. The context that drugs can still be safe for a long time after expiration has gained several affirmations. In a recent study by Benjamin Davido and others titled ‘Efficacy of Expired Antibiotics: A Real Debate in the Context of Repeated Drug Shortages’ published in MDPI Journal “Antibiotics”, it was reported that when appropriately stored in line with the expected conditions, no expired antibiotics tested failed to be potent after one year of expiration. In another study by Sushil Sharma and others, titled ‘A study to investigate the chemical potency, physical stability, and efficacy of analgesic agents over a period of two years post their expiry date’ published in the “Medical Journal Armed Forces India”, it was seen that drugs such as Diclofenac, Piroxicam, and Ibuprofen retained their stability, analgesic efficacy, chemical active ingredients and by implication their potency up to a duration of two years after expiration.

Important factors to consider

However, the issues of proper storage and handling can play a big role, especially in the tropical climate of West Africa and other geographical regions. Hence, people in the tropics may have to rely on their capacity to store their drugs in the required condition in deciding whether to use a drug past the expiration date or not.

Conclusion

This article doesn’t advocate for the use of expired medication but to reduce anxiety about accidental use. It is essential to understand factors that impact drug stability.

(Written by Ebenezer Dic-Ijiewere PhD.)

NB: Always consult your healthcare professionals regarding expired medications to ensure medication safety and effectiveness.

Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids Among Black Women Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids Among Black Women

Uterine fibroids (UFs) represent the most prevalent non-cancerous tumors among women of reproductive age. Symptomatic fibroids can lead to significant health issues and are the primary reason for hysterectomies in the United States and globally, contributing to substantial socioeconomic impacts and affecting over 70% of women of reproductive age (Langton et al., 2024). African American women tend to develop fibroids approximately 10 years earlier than White women in the US and bear a disproportionate health burden from these tumors

Black women experience UFs at higher rates, with an earlier onset, more severe symptoms, and faster disease progression compared to other groups.

According to Sithembinkosi Ndebele (2024), 85% of participants were non-Hispanic Blacks. Black participants had a higher likelihood of a UF diagnosis, and the following risk factors were reported contributing to the high prevalence of UFs in Black individuals:

  1. Socioeconomic Status: Lower socioeconomic status is reported to increase the rates of UFs.
  2. Adverse Environmental Exposures: Increased exposure to environmental pollutants is associated with a higher prevalence of UFs.
  3. Chronic Stress: Experiences that increase chronic stress are significant contributors.

Lifestyle and socioeconomic factors, closely tied to neighborhood characteristics, further influence UF prevalence. These factors include:

  1. Body Mass Index (BMI): A higher BMI correlates with a higher risk of UFs.
  2. Alcohol Use: Regular alcohol consumption is positively correlated with UF diagnosis.
  3. Income and Occupation: These factors influence access to healthy food and healthcare.

The Health Effects of Stress: Understanding Its Role in Disease Development The Health Effects of Stress

Overview of Stress: Stress significantly affects health, contributing to disease development and burdening healthcare systems considerably. It is a significant factor in various ongoing health issues, particularly cardiovascular diseases, which are often impaired by everyday psychosocial pressures, such as work-related stress.

The following are the roles of stress in disease development.

Gender Differences in Stress Responses: Gender plays a vital role in how individuals experience and manage stress. Research reports that women are more likely to develop mood disorders and autoimmune. At the same time, men tend to have higher rates of early substance abuse, infectious disease, mortality, and antisocial behavior. Unsuccessful stress management can lead to severe physical and mental health consequences for both individuals and communities.

Physiological Responses to Stress: The study reports that stressful events can trigger emotional responses such as anxiety and worry, impacting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) system, which may lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices, comprising poor sleep, alcohol consumption, decreased physical activity and increased smoking thereby increase the risk of diseases.

Chronic Stress in Specific Environments: Chronic stress in educational settings and workplaces impacts mental and physical health noticeably. Also, it indicates that occupational stress significantly affects mental well-being.

Traumatic Events as a Stress Source: Traumatic events are a prevalent source of stress that affects a large portion of the population. The study reports that In North America, about 60% to 75% of individuals will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime, including serious accidents, exposure to war, sexual assault, chronic childhood abuse, or neglect.

How to Survive During Rising Costs and Government Shutdown How to Survive During Rising Costs and Government Shutdown

With the government shutdown, many aspects of daily life have been severely impacted. The rate of food insecurity is increasing, and challenges related to housing, transportation, and other social determinants of health are becoming more pressing. SNAP benefits have been frozen, leaving many families struggling to put food on the table. As a result, more individuals and families are turning to food pantries and community resources for support.

At the same time, the cost of food and necessities continues to rise, deepening the struggles faced by countless households. These are difficult times, but I want to encourage everyone affected to stay strong, remain hopeful, and trust that better days are ahead.

Here are some practical ways to cope and survive during the rising costs and government shutdown:

Prioritize Your Needs

  • You must focus on needs such as housing, food, transportation, utilities, and medication.
  • Decrease or pause non-essential spending, such as new purchases, entertainment, or dining out.

  Manage Your Money Wisely

  • Avoid any unnecessary debt.
  • Prioritize rent/mortgage and food.
  • Discuss with your utility company, landlord, or bank to explore any available payment plans or deferments during the shutdown.

Explore any available community resources

  • Assess community and faith-based resources (Local food banks, churches, non-profits) for support with food and bills.
  • Check your city’s website to find out what supports are available to access.

   Protect Your Mental and Emotional Health during the difficult time

  • Financial insecurity can be draining. Stay connected with family, friends, and coworkers for emotional support.
  • Get good exercise, rest, and be consistent with your routines
  • Have faith and be hopeful that the challenges are temporary and will surely pass
  • Focus on what’s within your control.

Maintain Perspective

  • Use this period to build your financial discipline and strength
  • Celebrate each time you pay a bill and make meals; a win is worth celebrating
  • Reflect on value by focusing on more relationships, essentials, and faith than on any material things
Unlocking the Benefits of Consistent Physical Activity. Unlocking the Benefits of Consistent Physical Activity

Inadequate exercise or physical activity can contribute to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Given that non-communicable diseases account for over 80% of deaths in some nations, they are regarded as “the number one killer” globally. Physical exercise is any movement that requires energy, like housework, manual labor, walking, or manual labor. Exercise, on the other hand, is a regimen of physical activity that is organized and planned to enhance physical fitness.

Evidenced-based benefits.

  1. Physical Health: Research reported that 150 min of moderate-intensity or 75 min of vigorous-intensity physical activity led to a 14% risk reduction in all-cause mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease. In healthy adults, the risk decreased by 7%. Regular exercise has been shown in numerous studies to be beneficial in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as improving the health of patients with a variety of other conditions, such as certain cancers. stroke, type 2 diabetes, age-related sarcopenia, obesity, and multiple sclerosis.
  2. Mental Health: Research findings indicate that youth with mild to moderate mental health issues can benefit from organized sports and exercise programs. In one study, participants highlighted the significance of intensity choice for their enjoyment and commitment to the program, and it was shown that a self-selected intensity sport and exercise intervention was beneficial for depression. Research findings indicate that youth with mild to moderate mental health issues can benefit from organized sports and exercise programs. In one study, participants highlighted the significance of intensity choice for their enjoyment and commitment to the program, and it was shown that a self-selected intensity sport and exercise intervention was beneficial for depression. Also, engaging in physical exercise for 14 weeks can considerably improve mental symptoms, reduce anxiety and somatization, lessen obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and lift depressed moods.
  3. Quality Sleep: Study indicated that quality of sleep was positively impacted by exercise. Additionally, insomnia was somewhat alleviated following the exercise intervention. For instance, studies reveal that first-year students who exercise more get better sleep than those who exercise less during the night.

Evidenced-based research recommended the following:

  1. Adults should aim for more than 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity, 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity spread out over the week, or an equivalent mix of moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity.
  2. Engage in moderate-to-intense muscle-strengthening activities that target all major muscle groups two or more days a week.
  3. Adults 65 and older engage in multicomponent physical activity that involves functional balance and strength training at a moderate or higher intensity for at least three days a week in addition to aerobic exercises.

How to decrease high cholesterol How to Decrease High Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) refers to elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)—which is widely regarded as a key modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). LDL-C can deposit in arterial walls, forming plaques that narrow arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Meanwhile, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver for excretion. Several factors can increase the level of cholesterol in the blood, as indicated below

Factors That Contribute to Elevated Cholesterol

  • Poor diet
  • Lack of Physical Exercise
  • Excess body weight
  • Smoking increases cholesterol profile, and excessive alcohol increases triglycerides
  • Genetic traits
  • Chronic stress and poor sleep
  • Diet low fiber

To decrease high cholesterol in the blood, it is important to make positive changes to health behaviors by following the strategies below:

Strategies to Decrease High Cholesterol Levels

  • Reduce intake of saturated and trans fats, and substitute with MUFA and PUFA-rich foods such as fatty fish(Salmon and Mackerel), olive oil/canola oil, Avocado/nuts

A study by Okobi et al. (2023) found that an avocado-rich diet can lower total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.

  • Increase consumption of food high in soluble fiber, such as oats, fruits, apples, and legumes.
  • Regular aerobic exercise for 150 minutes/week lowers LDL and triglycerides and improves HDL.
  • Losing excessive weight will improve LDL profiles.
  • Quitting smoking will improve cardiovascular health and HDL levels

Four lifestyle changes to reduce the development of uterine fibroids (UFs) Four lifestyle changes to reduce the development of Uterine Fibroids (UFs)

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors found in women of reproductive age, with a disproportionate impact on women of color. These disparities are believed to be combined with environmental, genetic, and socio-economic factors.

 Some of the lifestyle changes that can help prevent or reduce the development of uterine fibroids are;

  1. Decreasing Alcohol consumption: It’s advised that women decrease their alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids (UFs). Studies have reported an association between alcohol intake and an increased likelihood of UFs. Studies believe that alcohol may alter hormone levels and disrupt hormonal balance, contributing to the formation of UFs. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on unique health occurrences. By being mindful of alcohol consumption and adhering to recommended limits, proactive steps can be taken to lower the risk of UFs.
  2. Engage in at least four hours of vigorous physical activity per week: Research has found a significant association between an increased BMI and the risk of UFs. Obesity is believed to be a contributing factor to UF. Studies believe that women who engage in at least four hours of vigorous physical activity per week are more likely to encounter a decrease in the risk factors of UFs.
  3. Consuming more fruits, Vegetables, and dietary fibers:  High intake of processed and refined foods, unhealthy fats, and sugary drinks, and low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods may contribute to hormonal imbalances, inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby encouraging the growth of UFs as indicated in the research. Additionally, a lack of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods has been reported to be associated with an elevated risk of UFs. Fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich food are excellent sources of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Specifically, Dietary fiber has been indicated to have protective impacts against UFs by supporting hormonal balance and improving regular bowel movements. Hence, adopting a healthy and balanced diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential.
  4. Managing stress:  Studies have found that chronic psychological stress could increase the risk of uterine fibroids and indicated a significant link between chronic psychological stress and an elevated risk of UFs, predominantly among non-Hispanic Black women. Eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, relaxing, connecting with friends and family, and practicing mindfulness are some ways to manage stress.

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