Drug manifacturers label some drugs with a caution to store them in a cool, dry place. what is the reason why?

Question

this is a question from our chemistry class.. pls. help..

Answer 1

because the chemical compounds that make up the drugs are, or may be, prone to breaking down in those conditions.

Answer 2

Sometimes the pill casing will melt which is a problem for time release capsules.  Then you get the whole dose right away instead of little bits at a time.  Depending on the pill, it could be harmful.

Answer 3

The answer your chemistry teacher might be looking for is oxidation, reduction & those other type of chemical reactions that I have long forgotten.  I think oxidation is related to water (H2O). I have forgotten the names of the chemical reactions for heat or light related break down.

Also, The US Phamacopia(?spelling), the standard for all pharmaceutical companies for the USA, requires testing in a "cool, dry" place. It actually has standards for what defines cool, vs. warm vs hot.vs humid vs. dry place.  

Answer 4

Because they're made to melt in your stomach, which is a wet, warm place. You can't trust the expiration date on a drug that's been left out in the sun or exposed to water.  

Answer 5

Heat, moisture, and light can all break down the chemical components in the medications. This could reduce or eliminate their effectiveness.