I am a 16 year old male. i have an ear infection. i have some 7.5ml "ciprodex" ear drops. can i take them past expiration? the expiration was may 2009.

The : The reason drugs have expiration dates relate to the stability of the medication over time and the possible loss of potency among other things. 3 years is too long, and while it may not harm you, you would be better off getting a new prescription to treat your infection optimally. This will require a physician prescription and usually evaluation which is a better idea than treating yourself.

Expired medication: Agree with Dr. Arden. Don't know if you have symptoms of an external ear infection. At age 16 years old, I would let your parents know so that you can be evaluated. I would skip taking the expired medication and see what the medical provider recommends.