
Can I still take Lianhua Qingwen Granules two months after the expiration date?
I am a 35-year-old male. Recently, I caught a cold and found some Lianhua Qingwen Granules at home, but I noticed they had expired two months ago. I'm not sure whether this medication is still safe to take after expiration. Can Lianhua Qingwen Granules still be used two months after their expiration date?

It is not recommended to continue taking Lianhua Qingwen Granules two months after the expiration date. The expiration date of medications is determined after rigorous testing and evaluation. After expiration, the ingredients may degrade or become ineffective, leading to reduced efficacy or even the production of harmful substances. Although there may be no obvious changes in appearance, the safety and effectiveness of the medication cannot be guaranteed. Especially for medications used to treat illnesses like the common cold, insufficient efficacy may delay recovery, while changes in composition could cause adverse effects on the body.
To ensure safe medication use, it is recommended to immediately stop using expired drugs, properly dispose of them, and avoid accidental ingestion or environmental contamination. Regularly check your home medicine cabinet, promptly remove expired medications, and replenish commonly used medicines for emergencies. When purchasing medications, ensure they are not expired and pay attention to the integrity of the packaging. Read the instructions carefully before use and confirm the appropriate indications. If cold symptoms are mild, they can be relieved by drinking more water, resting, and maintaining a light diet. If symptoms are severe or persist for a prolonged period, seek timely medical attention and use appropriate medications under a doctor's guidance.