How long after the expiration date should medication generally not be taken?

Under normal circumstances, regardless of how long they have been expired, medicines should not be consumed after their expiration date. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Within the specified shelf life, the composition, content, and efficacy of medicines remain stable and can function normally for therapeutic purposes. Once expired, the components of the medicine may decompose or degrade, leading to reduced effectiveness or even complete ineffectiveness, thus failing to achieve the expected therapeutic effect. Moreover, expired medicines may generate new harmful substances. These harmful substances entering the human body may not only delay treatment but also cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or damage liver and kidney functions. In severe cases, they may even endanger life. Therefore, expired medicines must be strictly avoided.

In addition, when storing medicines at home, it is important to keep them away from light, moisture, and sealed properly to prevent premature degradation due to improper storage. Once medicines are found to be expired, they should be disposed of promptly in accordance with waste sorting requirements. Do not discard them casually or give them to others, to prevent accidental ingestion. When purchasing medicines, also pay attention to the expiration date and avoid stockpiling excessive amounts, which may lead to expiration and waste.