Prescription medications are essential for many individuals. They help people manage chronic ailments, regulate critical markers of health such as blood pressure, and keep serious symptoms under control. When a prescription refill expires, it can be serious for individuals who rely on medications to maintain their health. Here, the caring and attentive staff from Pack Pharmacy in Cincinnati, OH, explains what to do if this happens to you.

A Guide to Handling Expired Prescription Refills

Speak With Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists are bound by laws which prevent them from refilling prescriptions after the expiration date has passed. This is true even if there are refills left on the prescription. Pharmacists are also unable to provide additional dosages past the number of refills allowed by the prescribing doctor. The reason doctors limit refills is so patients come back in to have their conditions actively monitored, as well as to determine whether medications need to be increased, decreased, or stopped altogether.

With that said, there are certain exceptions. When patients find themselves in critical need of medications for controlling serious, chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, asthma or COPD, heart conditions, or seizures, the pharmacist may be able to provide an emergency fill. Eligibility for this service is determined on a case-by-case basis.

How to Prevent a Prescription From Expiring

With so many daily responsibilities to attend to, it’s easy for prescription expiration dates to creep up unexpectedly. If you take daily medications, one simple way to prevent running out is to mark the date on your calendar for one month before your prescription expires. You can also set a notification on your phone to remind you. That way, you can schedule an appointment with your doctor and leave enough time for the prescription to be renewed.

If you need to order a prescription refill for one of your medications, allow the friendly team from Pack Pharmacy to help. In addition to in-store service, they also offer local deliveries to customers throughout Hyde Park, Walnut Hills, Mt. Lookout, Mt. Adams, Oakley, and the nearby areas. Learn more by visiting their website or call (513) 871-7770 to speak with a pharmacist.