Acetaminophen/Oxycodone - how do you know when the pills are too old to take?

11 Jan 2011

while I don't know what percocet would look like after a couple of months outside of a pillbox, the expiration date is often a method to keep the medications regulated, and not accumulating over the years. My doctor mentioned once after he gave me some slightly expired sample packs that most meds don't really go bad for years past the date, as they are a chemical, unlike something like an antibiotic. I would imagine that if they're under five years over the date that they're fine. Maybe a bit less potent, but should be fine. I'm not a doctor, and I'm only referencing my own personal knowledge - not someone with years in med school.
best of luck!
Jeff K

26 Dec 2011

Generally the pill container will have a "beyond use" date on it; the pharmacist attaches this based on the manufacturer's expiration date. I do not know about oxy specifically but certain drugs like tetracycline become toxic after time. i would call the pharmacy and ask the pharmacist.