Florida · Expired prescription
Expired prescription in Florida: how to get it renewed
"Expired" can mean two different things: the prescription has expired, or the medicine in your bottle has. Here's how to handle each.
Why prescriptions expire
Prescriptions have a time limit as well as a refill count. For most non-controlled medicines, the limit is commonly one year from when the prescription was written. When it passes, the pharmacy needs a new prescription. The time limit makes sure your treatment gets reviewed periodically.
What the physician needs to renew it
- A photo of your current label or bottle
- Why you take it, how it's working and any side effects
- Recent readings or labs if the medicine needs monitoring: blood pressure, A1C, kidney function, TSH or cholesterol
- Any new diagnoses, hospital visits or medicines since it was last prescribed
Possible outcomes
Most often, a new prescription. Sometimes, a shorter supply while you get labs. Occasionally, a recommendation for an in-person exam first. The physician tells you which and why.
Expired medicine in your cabinet
The expiration date on the bottle is different: it's how long the manufacturer guarantees full strength. Don't use expired medicine for anything critical, such as insulin, inhalers, epinephrine or nitroglycerin. Dispose of old medicines through a pharmacy drop box or a community take-back event rather than keeping them around.
Common questions
I still have refills on the label. Why won't the pharmacy fill it?
The prescription may have passed its time limit, which ends any remaining refills. The pharmacy needs a new prescription.
Can you renew a prescription written by another doctor?
Yes, if you're physically in Florida and the medicine is established and non-controlled. The physician reviews it independently and issues a new prescription only when appropriate.
Do I need labs to renew an expired prescription?
Sometimes. It depends on the medicine and how long since your last results. See labs before a refill.