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What does the expiration date of a medication indicate?

  1. The date it should be discarded

  2. The last date it can be administered

  3. The date it was manufactured

  4. The date it was last checked for safety

The correct answer is: The last date it can be administered

The expiration date of a medication is an important indicator of its safety and effectiveness. It signifies the last date that the manufacturer guarantees the full potency and safety of the medication. Beyond this date, the medication may not be as effective, and in some cases, it could potentially be harmful. Thus, understanding that the expiration date marks the final day that a medication can be administered while ensuring optimal performance under recommended storage conditions is essential. While other options may seem relevant, they do not accurately represent the role of the expiration date. For instance, while the idea of discarding a medication after its expiration date is important for safety, the actual expiration date itself is more accurately described as the last date for administration.