Can prescription drugs sent by mail survive in the summer heat?

Are these prescription drugs still effective after being in a mailbox for hours in the hot sun?

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Story Published: Aug 25, 2009 at 3:00 AM PST

By Molly Blancett KVAL News

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SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- Londa Wheatley gets all of her medications in the mail.

She's rarely home when they get dropped off, so the packages spend hours in her mailbox.

"These probably sat in there for three hours," she said. "They're cooking in the mailbox."

Pharmacists recommend you store your prescriptions at room-temperature -- around 77 degrees. High temperatures can decrease the potency of many medications.

Consumers need to ask about whether a drug allows for "controlled excursions" -- short periods of time where the drug can be stored in temperatures up to 86 F. The time is intended to allow mail-order pharmacies time for shipping.

Three of the four most commonly prescribed drugs -- Singular, Lexapro and Nexium -- are allowed controlled excursions.

However, Lipitor -- a popular drug used to lower cholesteral levels -- does not.

How do I avoid damage to my drugs?

One way to prevent heat-contamination is to request the pharmacies use overnight delivery.

What should you do if you think your drugs have been damaged?

Talk to your pharmacist. Then, call your health insurance company. They might be be able to replace your medicine or reimburse you for a replacement prescription.

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