HBC expiration dates

[collsers.livejournal.com]

I noticed that my backup pack of hbc (Loestrin24) has an expiration date of February 2012, so I want to use it this month so it doesn't go to waste.  I've taken a few pills from this pack (I think I have 19 active pills left in it), so I plan to just stack it and skip the brown pills before starting the next pack.  Anyways, my question is: is hbc that is near the expiration date still as effective?  I feel like the answer is yes, since it hasn't actually expired, but I am nervous and considering using a backup method during this pack.  Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Comments

[dkwgdk.livejournal.com]

Yes, it's effective until the expiration date. (The contraceptive companies would be in BIG TROUBLE if it wasn't!) Odds are good that they are even effective a couple of months after the date for precisely that reason that the companies err on the side of caution in assigning an expiration date, but I think you are wise to use the pack sooner rather than later.

[kaberett.livejournal.com]

Exactly. Personally I'm pretty relaxed about using most of my medications past their expiry date, and especially with HBC I'm very, very confident that the expiration date will have a HUGE safety margin factored in!

[nickelshoe.livejournal.com]

You might call a pharmacist, but I think you can use those pills until the end of February, not just the beginning. And as long as you've handled your pills properly, not expired means definitely still good enough.

[agentscuiy.livejournal.com]

My gyno has always told me that pills are safe and effective 6 months past their expiration date.