Properly Storing Medicine At Home

Where Should You Keep Your Medications?

Always store medication in a secure place where it’s not accessible to children. The bathroom may be the most convenient place to store it, but don’t do this! The heat and moisture that form in the bathroom can compromise your medication and make it less effective. Travis Hale, PharmD, vice president and pharmacist at Remington Drug Co. in Remington, VA, recommends following these guidelines:

  • Keep medications in a cool, dry and dark place to prevent damage from heat, light, air or moisture
  • Store medications in a cabinet or drawer with a child-proof latch or lock
  • Store medications out of the reach or sight of children.
  • Always keep medications with you when you travel
  • Don’t put medications in the glove box of a car
  • Don’t leave medications where a pet could get into them
  • Store medications that might have street resale value or be attractive to addicts in a locked cabinet
Reviewed by: 
Review Date: 
August 28, 2015

Last Updated:
August 28, 2015