姚晨发文：过年被妈妈“连骂3天”，我也算尽孝了……医生提醒

Core Viewpoint - The discussion highlights the risks associated with using expired medications, emphasizing that both Western and traditional Chinese medicines can pose health hazards when past their expiration dates [1][3][4]. Group 1: Risks of Expired Medications - Expired medications can lose their efficacy and may even lead to adverse health effects, particularly for chronic disease patients [1][2]. - Certain medications, like antibiotics, may become ineffective or harmful after expiration, potentially worsening health conditions [1][2]. - The chemical breakdown of some drugs can produce harmful substances, such as aspirin degrading into salicylic acid, which can irritate the gastrointestinal tract [2]. Group 2: Risks of Expired Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - Expired TCM can also pose health risks, as the complex components may generate unknown harmful substances [3]. - The notion that some TCMs improve with age is misleading; most do not benefit from long-term storage and can lose potency or become unsafe [3][4]. - The Chinese regulatory body has mandated that TCM products must display expiration dates starting from August 2025 to ensure safety and efficacy [3]. Group 3: Proper Disposal and Management of Medications - It is recommended to categorize expired medications for disposal, with specific guidelines for solid, liquid, and injectable forms [5][6]. - Regular cleaning of medicine cabinets every 3-6 months is advised to remove expired products and maintain an updated inventory [7]. - Proper storage conditions for medications are crucial, requiring a dry and light-protected environment [8].