How To: Store medications

Nearly everyone has taking drugs at one point in their life, but there's a large number of people that need to take pills on a regular basis. But over time, medications can lose their oomph, and not work as well as they could. Oxygen, light, and water can break down your medications. Take care of your medications and take care of yourself by storing your medications in a cool, dry, and dark location.

You Will Need
* Kitchen cabinet or drawer
* Secure location
* Original containers
* List of current medications

Step 1: Avoid cabinet
Avoid using the medicine cabinet. There is too much moisture in the bathroom. Store your medications in a cabinet or drawer in another room instead.

Avoid a location above the stove or sink.

Step 2: Keep out of sunlight
Keep your medications out of direct sunlight and away from rooms where there are large temperatures fluctuations, like the kitchen.

Step 3: Keep out of reach
Keep them out of reach or locked in a cabinet if children are present.

Step 4: Store in original container
Keep your medications in their original containers. That way you will have all the important dosage information and the prescription number if you need a refill.

Step 5: Keep medications on hand
Have your medications on hand when traveling. Don't store your medications in the glove compartment, which can become damaged by outside temperatures, the heater, or air conditioner.

Step 6: Keep a list
Keep a list of your current medications on you at all times when traveling. Keeping your medications safe keeps you safe.

Antidepressants are one of the most widely prescribed drugs in the United States.