Expired fluconazole?

Short answer: don’t take expired fluconazole.

Why: Expiration dates are the date the manufacturer guarantees full potency and safety. After that, the medicine may be less effective, and there’s no guarantee about safety or how it could break down. For an antifungal, using an expired product could mean your infection isn’t treated properly.

What to do:
- Don’t use the expired bottle. If you need fluconazole (a prescription antifungal), contact your clinician or pharmacist for a fresh prescription.
- If you’re not sure what to do about a current infection, seek medical advice rather than trying to use an expired medication.

Disposal (safe options):
- Do not flush down the toilet.
- If your area has a take-back program, use that.
- If not, mix the expired pills with something unpalatable (e.g., coffee grounds or cat litter) in a sealed bag or container, then throw it in the trash, and remove the label if possible to protect your privacy.

Storage tips (for future ref):
- Keep in original container, closed tightly.
- Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and children.

If you want, tell me your location and I can help you find a local drug take-back program or pharmacy disposal options. Also, if you’re dealing with symptoms right now, I can help you think through next steps or questions to ask your clinician.