QuestionHello, my OBGYN gave me 6 months of BC pills, he did tell me that they were expired, (there ex date was June 2006) but he told me that they don't really expire, so i started taking them this month (11-2006)I am now on my 3rd week and i have 4 pills left. My spouse and I had unprotected sex on 26 & 27th. Was my Dr. wright about the pills he gave me? could I be pregnant?
AnswerDear Beth,
Only the manufacturer of the BCP you are taking knows for sure how much time (if any) past the expiration date the pill will be as effective as they are before the expiration date.
I would say that it depends upon how old/expired and what condition they have been kept in. All medications tend to gradually lose potency over time. Open containers, high heat or high humidity can hasten the process.
As a general rule, expiration dates printed on medications are "conservative". Thus, it is likely the medication will continue to work for as long as a number of years after the expiration date (when kept in a closed, dry container in a cool location). BUT, since it is impossible to predict with any absolute certainty, in order to be on the safe side, I make it a general rule not to use any medications after their expiration date.
More than likely, you were safe to use these pills. Presumably, they were stored in a doctor's office and are only now 5 months old. If you want to be absolutely sure, you should use a back-up method, get a prescription for more pills for next month, or see if your doctor's office has gotten a new supply of unexpired pills since he gave you that supply. It all depends upon what your own comfort level is.
I hope this information has helped you and I wish you and your loved ones a merry Christmas! Please don't hesitate to write in again with any additional questions.
Brenda
