What determines the expiration date of a repackaged drug?

The expiration date of a repackaged drug is determined by the original expiration date provided by the drug's manufacturer. This original expiration date is based on stability studies that are conducted to ensure the medication remains safe and effective until that date. When repackaging a drug, it's crucial to utilize the manufacturer’s expiration date because it reflects the integrity and potency of the medication throughout its shelf life.

Using the original expiration date allows pharmacies and healthcare providers to maintain compliance with safety standards. Any changes in packaging or dispensing do not alter the stability and effectiveness determined by the original manufacturer's studies. This is essential for ensuring patient safety and adhering to regulatory standards in pharmacy practice.

While factors such as the packaging date, storage conditions, and guidance from the manufacturer play roles in overall drug management and dosage form stability, they do not influence the fundamental expiration date assigned to a repackaged drug; that date remains tied to the original expiration date established by the manufacturer.