Can Liuwei Dihuang Pills be taken after expiration?

Under normal circumstances, Liuwei Dihuang Pills should not be taken after the expiration date, regardless of their appearance. However, if they are still within the expiration period and have been properly stored, they can be taken as directed. If in doubt, it is recommended to check the medicine's expiration date in advance. The detailed explanation is as follows:

If Liuwei Dihuang Pills have passed the expiration date indicated on the packaging, they should not be consumed even if there are no obvious changes in appearance—such as dampness, discoloration, or unusual odor. After expiration, the active ingredients in the medicine may degrade and lose effectiveness. Not only might the intended therapeutic effects fail to occur, but unknown decomposition products could form, potentially causing health risks such as gastrointestinal discomfort when ingested.

If the pills are still within their expiration date and have been properly stored—sealed and kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, or humid conditions—and if their appearance remains normal with no clumping, mold, or strange odors—they can be safely taken at the recommended dosage and will exert their intended effects of nourishing yin and tonifying the kidneys.

In daily use, Liuwei Dihuang Pills should be stored according to instructions, and their expiration dates should be checked regularly. Expired medicines or those showing any abnormalities should be discarded promptly; never take them out of侥幸心理 (a false sense of safety or侥幸 mentality).