Drug degradation is the natural breakdown of drugs over time due to environmental factors like light, heat, humidity, and air exposure. This can reduce the potency and effectiveness of medications, and in some cases produce harmful side effects. The main types of drug degradation are hydrolysis, oxidation, and photodegradation. To prevent degradation, medications should be stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and heat, expiration dates should be checked, and storage and usage instructions should be followed closely.

1. Drug Degradation: A
Closer Look
As drugs age, they can break down and lose their potency. Join us as we
explore the science of drug degradation and learn how to protect your
medication.
SJ by Abdullah

2. What is Drug Degradation?
1 The Basics
Drug degradation is a natural process of drug breakdown over
time. It can lead to decreased effectiveness, and in some cases,
harmful effects.
2 The Why
Most drugs are chemically active and can be easily influenced by
their environment, such as light, temperature, and humidity,
leading to their gradual degradation.

3. Factors Affecting Drug Degradation
Light
Exposure to light, especially
sunlight or fluorescent light,
can cause drug degradation.
Heat
High temperatures can cause
drugs to break down faster
and lose their potency.
Humidity
Water can promote drug
breakdown, especially for
drugs that are sensitive to
moisture.
Time
Over time, drugs can lose their
strength and effectiveness,
especially if they're not stored
properly.

4. Types of Drug Degradation
1
Hydrolysis
Drugs can react chemically with water,
breaking down the drug's structure and
reducing its activity.
2
Oxidation
This is a process where drugs interact with
oxygen in the air, slowly reducing their
effectiveness and potency.
3
Photodegradation
Drugs can lose their effectiveness when
exposed to light or sunlight. This process is
called photodegradation.

5. Consequences of Drug Degradation
Drug degradation can have several negative consequences. It can reduce the potency of drugs, making
them less effective in treating medical conditions. It can also create harmful side effects, especially if the
by-products are toxic or cause an allergic reaction.
Reduced Efficacy
Drugs may lose their
potency over time,
reducing their effectiveness
in treating medical
conditions.
Waste of Money
Expired medications are
often thrown out, which
means the patient has to
buy them again and waste
their money.
Harmful Side Effects
Degraded drugs may
create by-products that are
toxic or harmful and cause
side effects or produce
allergic reactions.

6. Preventing Drug Degradation
Storage
The best way to prevent drug
degradation is to store your
medication properly, ensuring
that it is protected from light,
heat, moisture, and air. You
can keep them in a cool, dry
place, away from sources of
light and heat.
Expiration Dates
Always check the expiration
date of your medication, and
do not use it after it has
expired. Expired medication
can have unpredictable
effects on your health, and it
is better to dispose of it and
buy a fresh supply.
Follow the
Instructions
Always follow the instructions
for storage, usage, and
dosages provided with your
medication. Proper storage
and usage can help you get
the best effect from your
medication and avoid any
harmful effects.

7. Conclusion
Proper Storage
Store your medication in cool,
dry places that are free from
light and heat.
Check Expiration Dates
Don't use drugs after the
expiration date, as they can
lose their effectiveness and be
harmful to your health.
Follow the Instructions
Properly follow the instructions
provided with your medication
for storage, usage, and
dosages.
Drug degradation is a natural process, but you can take measures to control its effects on your
medication. Proper storage, checking expiration dates, and following the instructions can help you ensure
that your medication is safe and effective.

8. Thank you