Which drugs are known to be fatal when taken after expiration?

Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics that are known to be particularly hazardous when taken after their expiration date. The active ingredients in these medications can degrade over time, leading to the formation of potentially toxic byproducts. For instance, one of the degradation products of tetracycline is known to be nephrotoxic, meaning it can cause kidney damage. This makes it essential to avoid the use of expired tetracyclines, as they can pose significant health risks, including severe allergic reactions and organ damage.

In contrast, while it is generally advised to avoid expired medications, other categories such as analgesics, beta-blockers, and antihistamines do not have the same level of documented risk related to toxicity post-expiration. For example, analgesics may lose potency but are not typically associated with fatal consequences if ingested past their expiration date. Thus, the distinctive danger associated with tetracyclines emphasizes why they are recognized for their potential to be lethal when used after the expiration date.