Warning issued to anyone who keeps medication in bathroom cabinet

A GP has suggested that anyone who stores medication in their bathroom cabinet should think again, particularly as the summer approaches. Dr Sameer Sanghvi, clinical technology lead at LloydsPharmacy, said people should be mindful of where they keep common pills as the wrong conditions could damage drugs.

He explained: "Heat, air, light and moisture can all damage your medicine and stop them working as they should. Medications are likely to expire more quickly if not stored correctly too." Dr Sanghvi said a drawer or cabinet can be an ideal place to store medicine as they tend to stay cool and dark, even in warm .

But he added: "That said, I'd avoid keeping your medicine in bathroom cabinets as these can become very damp thanks to steam from baths and showers.

"Unless advised otherwise, you should always keep medication in its original packaging.

"Things like the box and blister packet that tablets come in are designed to protect the medicine inside so it can do its job effectively."

Storage instructions can vary, so you should also check the label on each specific product.

Many common drugs can be kept at room temperature (15C to 25C) but some may need to be kept in the fridge.

Drugs should be stored in their original packaging, out of reach of children.

that patients taking certain may be more sensitive to heat during the summer.

Some types can make people more sensitive to heat, potentially increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.