PSA: the printed expiry date is not the date that matters once you open it

LabelYourVialsSenior Analyst

Small distinction that causes real confusion.

Expiry date: set by the manufacturer for the unopened product stored as directed, backed by stability testing on that product in that packaging.

Beyond use date: the point after opening, puncturing or mixing beyond which it shouldn't be used. Usually much shorter, and it starts when you do something to the container.

A vial with two years of expiry left can have a beyond use date of days once mixed. People read the printed date and conclude they have two years.

The date that matters is the one you write on it, not the one printed on it.

5 replies3 upvotesStorage, Reconstitution & Supplies

5 replies

  • cold_chainSenior Analyst

    Most useful thing in this whole category. The printed date answers a question nobody's asking once the vial is open.

    5 upvotes

  • newvialwhodisSenior Analyst

    so two years on the box means nothing once its open?

    3 upvotes

  • InventoryManagerSenior Analyst

    This is exactly what I want the inventory to track. Not the expiry, the clock that starts at reconstitution. Different field, different meaning.

    3 upvotes

    • LabelYourVialsSenior Analyst

      And most systems store them as if they were the same thing.

      2 upvotes

  • same_tbhSenior Analyst

    sharpie on the vial. every time

    2 upvotes

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