What happens if you take medication that is 6 months past its expiration date?

Consuming medication that is six months past its expiration date may cause harm to the human body, with symptoms varying depending on the type of drug and individual constitution.

Taking medication expired for six months may lead to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, and in more severe cases, palpitations or anxiety. Some individuals may experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, or even changes in mental status. Moreover, expired medication will not achieve the intended therapeutic effect and may worsen the condition. For example, taking expired antibiotics may fail to combat infection and could instead promote the spread of infection, potentially leading to abscesses or sepsis. Hypertensive patients who take expired antihypertensive drugs or diabetic patients who take expired hypoglycemic agents may experience elevated blood pressure or blood glucose levels. Taking other expired medications—such as expired anticancer drugs—may result in uncontrolled tumors, recurrence, metastasis, and even death.

If someone accidentally takes expired medication once or twice, they may induce vomiting by stimulating the back of the throat with a finger immediately after discovery. In cases where ingestion has already occurred and the medication has been fully swallowed, adverse effects may not occur after a single incident; however, to prevent complications, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.