WES 303 Pill - How it works, Dosage, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, and Interactions

Physical pain has been a part of our lives one way or the other. We get various degrees of pain either from too much exertion from work, ailments, trauma, and accidents.

And the thing is that people have always resorted to many ways to relieve their pain.

Some people even resort to illegal and harmful ways to alleviate their pain like getting pseudo-high on hard drugs like cocaine.

Others follow normal procedures and use legal medications like painkillers and pain relievers.

So today, Healthsoothe will be focusing on a pain reliever known as WES 303.

WES 303 is among many of the pain relievers out there that people use to alleviate or relieve their physical pains.

So if you are having pains due to arthritis or pains from a post-dental surgery and you are thinking about using WES 303 and you are wondering how safe this drug is, how it works, its benefits, side effects, and other things.

Then don’t worry, we got you covered here. This article will answer all these questions and more.

WES 303 – What is it?

It is a pain-relieving drug that is formed from the combination of two other medicines - Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate. It belongs to the drug class of narcotic analgesic combinations.

Narcotic analgesic combinations are products that contain a narcotic analgesic in combination with at least one other analgesic; for example, hydrocodone and acetaminophen, oxycodone, and acetaminophen.

Narcotic analgesic combinations should only be used to treat moderate-to-severe pain that is not responsive to other less potent analgesics. An analgesic is a name used to describe a medicine that relieves pain.

WES 303 drug summary details         

• Drug Class: Narcotic analgesic combinations
• Active ingredients: Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate
• Inactive Ingredients: Magnesium stearate, FD & C Blue No. 1, croscarmellose sodium, silicon dioxide, and microcrystalline cellulose.
• Size: 15.00 mm
• Pregnancy Category: C – Risky. Should only be used if benefits outweigh side effects
• Strength: 5-10mg of Hydrocodone Bitartrate and 108-750mg of Acetaminophen.
• Color: Blue
• Forms: Pills
• Shape: Capsule-shape
• CSA Schedule: The value is 2 which means there is a high chance of drug abuse
• Supplier/Labeler: Eywa Pharma Inc.
• National Drug Code (NDC): 71930-0021
• Imprint: WES 303
• Manufacturer: Wes Pharma Inc.
• Availability: Prescription only

How does WES 303 work?

The active constituents or ingredients of WES 303 are the core function of the drug. These are Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate;

• Acetaminophen (fever reducer and pain reliever): This non-narcotic analgesic works by raising the threshold to pain; that is, higher stimulation of the neurons responsible for pain sensation is required for the pain to be sensed. It decreases fever by acting on the brain's temperature-regulating region.
• Hydrocodone Bitartrate (pain reliever and cough suppressant): This narcotic acts by inhibiting the receptors and synapses on nerve tissue and cells in the brain that cause pain sensations. It is comparable to codeine.

To relieve pain, hydrocodone and acetaminophen are often mixed. Together, they form the combination medicine – WES 303 is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

How should I use WES 303?

It is administered orally, with or without meals.

If you're going to use an oral solution, be sure you complete the following:

• Use calibrated measuring equipment to determine the dosage.
• Before administration, double-check the dosage in milliliters and milligrams.

Please follow all of the instructions on your prescription label. Never use this medication in bigger doses or for a longer period than suggested.

An overdose might harm your liver or perhaps kill you. Inform your doctor if you have an increased desire to take this medication.

Never give this medication to anybody else, particularly someone who has a history of drug misuse or addiction. Misuse may lead to addiction, overdose, and death.

Keep the medication in a location where others cannot get it. It is illegal to sell or distribute WES 303 tablets.

Dosing instructions for WES 303

Usual adult dose for pain

Oral tablets

Acetaminophen 325mg/- Hydrocodone 5mg/tabs;

• Initial dose: 1 to 2 tabs every 4-6 hrs as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 8 tabs/24hr

Acetaminophen 325mg-Hydrocodone 7.5mg and acetaminophen 325 mg- Hydrocodone 10mg/tab;

• Initial dose: 1tab every 4-6hrs as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 6 tabs/24hrs

Oral Solution

Acetaminophen 325mg/15ml-Hydrocodone 7.5mg/15ml;

• Initial dose: 15ml every 4-6 hours as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 90ml/24hrs

Acetaminophen 300 mg-Hydrocodone 10 mg/15ml;

• Initial dose: 11.25ml every 4-6hrs as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 67.5ml/24hrs

Individual doses should be titrated to produce appropriate analgesia while limiting adverse responses.

Because of the hazards of abuse, misuse, and addiction, the lowest effective dosage should be utilized for the shortest term and compatible with specific patient treatment objectives.

Within the first 24 to 72 hours after starting medication and after each dosage increase, respiratory depression should be regularly monitored.

This is for the treatment of pain that is severe enough to need the use of an analgesic that is opioid in action, and for which alternative therapies are ineffective.

Usual pediatric dose for pain

Weight less than 46kg and  2yrs or more 

Preferred weight-based dosing

Initial dose: Acetaminophen and hydrocodone 5.85 mg/kg or 0.135 mg/kg orally every 4-6hrs as needed.

For Acetaminophen 325 mg- hydrocodone 7.5mg/15ml

Oral Solution

0.27ml/kg orally every 4-6hrs

For acetaminophen 300mg-Hydrocodone 10mg/15ml;

Oral Solution

• Initial dose: 0.2 ml/kg orally every 4-6hrs
• Maximum dose: 6 doses in 24hrs

Age-Based Dosing

Acetaminophen 325mg-Hydrocodone 7.5mg-/15ml

Oral Solution

Approximately 2-3yrs old (12 to 15 kg);

Initial dose: 3.75ml orally every 4-6hrs

Approximately 4-6yrs old (16 to 22 kg);

Initial dose: 5ml orally every 4-6 hours

Approximately 7-9yrs old (23 - 31 kg);

Initial dose: 7.5 ml orally every 4-6hrs

Approximately 10 - 13 yrs old (32 - 45 kg);

Initial dose: 10 ml orally every 4-6hrs

Acetaminophen 300mg- Hydrocodone 10mg/15ml

Oral elixir

Approximately 2 - 3 yrs old (12 - 15 kg);

Initial dose: 2.8 ml orally every 4-6hrs

Approximately 4 - 6 yrs old (16 - 22 kg);

Initial dose: 3.75 ml orally every 4-6hrs

Approximately 7 - 9 yrs old (23 - 31 kg);

Initial dose: 5.6 ml orally every 4-6hrs

Approximately 10 - 13 yrs old (32 - 45 kg);

• Initial dose: 7.5 ml orally every 4-6hrs
• Maximum: 6 doses in 24 hours

2yrs or older; weight 46kg or more

Acetaminophen 325mg-Hydrocodone 7.5mg /15 ml:

• Initial dose: 15ml every 4-6hrs as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 6 doses/day not to exceed 90 ml/24hrs

Acetaminophen 300mg-Hydrocodone 10mg /15 ml:

• Initial dose: 11.25 ml every 4-6hrs as needed for pain
• Maximum dose: 6 doses per day not to pass 67.5ml/24hrs

When feasible, the weight-based dosage is desirable, and calibrated measuring equipment is highly suggested to guarantee correct dosing.

Individual doses should be titrated to produce appropriate analgesia while limiting adverse responses.

Patients should be thoroughly monitored for respiratory depression during the first 24 to 72 hours after starting medication and after each dosage increase.

This is for the treatment of pain that is severe enough to need the use of an opioid analgesic which renders alternate therapies ineffective.

Adjustments of dose

 In elderly or debilitated individuals, as well as those with prostatic hypertrophy, hypothyroidism, urethral stricture, or Addison's disease, acetaminophen-hydrocodone should be taken with caution; typically, begin at the lower end of the dose range and titrate cautiously.

See the following adjustments;

• Adjustments for liver dose: Caution is advised for persons with hepatic or liver issues who may have greater plasma concentrations of hydrocodone, and they should be continuously monitored for adverse effects.
• Kidney dose adjustments: Caution is advised for persons with renal or kidney issues who may have greater plasma concentrations of hydrocodone, and they should be continuously monitored for adverse effects.

The maximum acetaminophen dosage in 24 hours is 4g. When determining the daily dosage, include all acetaminophen products. To prevent an acetaminophen overdose, use just one product of acetaminophen at a time.

• Conversion due to other opioids: Due to substantial inter-patient variability in reaction to the strength of opioid medicines and formulations, a cautious approach is suggested; it is better to underestimate than overestimate and treat an unpleasant reaction due to overdose.
• The use of CYP450 3A4 inhibitors or inducers concurrently may need dosage modification (Check drug interactions section).

Therapy discontinuation in the addicted person or patient

• Gradually reduce or taper the dosage by 25-50% every 2-4 days.
• Monitor for withdrawal symptoms; if they occur, increase the dosage to the prior level and reduce or taper even more slowly.
• Do not suddenly stop treatment for the addict.

What if I miss significant doses of WES 303?

Nothing much will happen. Just that if you have missed significant doses of the drug, it will not be effective or potent enough to treat you for the ailment you took it for.

Do the following if you have missed dose on significant doses;

• If you forget to take one or more doses: take your next dose at the usual time and in the average amount. Do not take anymore than your doctor prescribed.
• If you miss one dose, skip it and continue with your normal schedule.
• Do not increase the dosage to catch up with the missed doses.
• You should consult your doctor on what to do if you don’t know what to do.

What if I overdose on WES 303?

Excessive sleepiness, extremely slow-paced breathing, coma, severe muscular weakness, and pinpoint pupils may also result from an overdose.

A WES 303 tablet overdose may be lethal. appetite loss, vomiting, nausea, stomach discomfort, sweating, and disorientation or weakness are the initial indicators of an acetaminophen overdose.

Symptoms that may come later include upper stomach discomfort, black urine, and yellow skin or whites of your eyes. Seek immediate medical treatment or call 1-800-222-1222 for Poison Help.

Uses of WES 303 pill

Its main function is being a pain reliever. It also acts as an antipyretic – fever reducer. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain.

This medicine may be used for other purposes, and you can also ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

Side effects of WES 303 pill

• Common side effects include:
• Headache
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Drowsiness/Dizziness
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

If you experience hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or neck, get immediate medical attention. Opioids may cause your respiration to slow or stop, and death is possible.

If you have sluggish breathing with extended pauses, blue-colored lips, or difficulty waking up, someone caring for you should seek immediate medical treatment.

Acetaminophen may induce a severe skin response that can be deadly in rare situations. This might happen even if you have previously taken acetaminophen without experiencing any side effects.

If you have skin redness or a rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling, stop taking this medication and contact your doctor straight once.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• Low cortisol levels — nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, worsening tiredness, or weakness.
• A light-headed feeling, like you, might pass out
• Noisy breathing, sighing, shallow breathing, breathing that stops during sleep;
• Liver problems –nausea, upper stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are overweight, malnourished, or debilitated.

Long-term use of opioid medication may affect fertility (ability to have children) in men or women. It is not known whether opioid effects on fertility are permanent.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or your healthcare provider or doctor.

Warnings and precautions for taking WES 303

The following warnings and precautions are to be noted and observed;

• When used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, it may cause extreme drowsiness, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Concomitant usage should be reserved for individuals who have exhausted all other therapy options. Limit the dosage and duration as needed, and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and drowsiness.
• Accidental Ingestion: Inadvertent ingestion, particularly by youngsters, may result in a lethal overdose.
• Serious, life-threatening, or deadly respiratory depression: Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur, particularly during or after a dosage increase.
• Addiction, abuse, and misuse: This medication puts patients and other users at risk of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which may result in overdose and death. Before prescription, assess each patient's risk and frequently monitor all patients for the development of these habits or disorders.
• Hepatotoxicity: Acetaminophen has been linked to cases of acute liver failure, sometimes resulting in liver transplantation and death; most cases of liver injury are linked to acetaminophen use at doses greater than 4000 mg per day, and frequently involve more than one acetaminophen-containing product.
• Interaction with CYP450 3A4 inhibitors: Using CYP450 3A4 inhibitors concurrently may result in higher hydrocodone plasma concentrations, which may exacerbate or prolong undesirable pharmacological effects and induce possibly deadly respiratory depression. Furthermore, discontinuing a concurrently taken CYP450 3A4 inducer may result in higher hydrocodone plasma concentrations. Patients receiving any CYP450 3A4 inhibitor or inducer should be closely monitored.
• Opioid withdrawal syndrome in infants: Prolonged usage during pregnancy may cause newborn opioid withdrawal syndrome, which can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated, and necessitates therapy according to neonatology specialists' guidelines. If an opioid is needed for an extended length of time in a pregnant woman, the patient should be informed about the danger of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that proper therapy is provided. To find out about the best therapy and treatment for opioid addiction and dependency, ANR Clinic will help you explore the wonders of the Accelerated Neuro-Regulation approach. 
• Medication error risks: When prescribing, dispensing, and delivering hydrocodone/acetaminophen oral solution, ensure accuracy; dosage mistakes caused by a misunderstanding between mg and ml, as well as other hydrocodone/acetaminophen oral solutions of varying concentrations, may result in accidental overdose and death.
• Oral liquid/solution safety and effectiveness in patients less than 2 years old have not been demonstrated.
• Oral pills have not been proven safe or effective in individuals under the age of 18.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to acetaminophen or hydrocodone, or if you have;

• Breathing problems
• A blockage in your intestines or stomach
• Severe asthma

Tell your doctor if you have ever had;

• Problems with your pancreas, gallbladder, and thyroid
• Seizures
• Breathing problems
• An alcohol or drug problem or addiction
• Sleep apnea
• Urination problems
• Liver disease
• Kidney problem or disease
• A head injury

WES 303 and pregnancy/breastfeeding

If you take opioid medications while pregnant, your kid may grow addicted to the substance. This may result in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the newborn after birth. Babies born addicted to opioids may need medical care for many weeks.

Breastfeeding is not permitted. This medication may enter the breast milk and induce sleepiness, respiratory difficulties, or death in a breastfeeding infant.

Avoid driving or operating equipment until you have a better understanding of how this medication may affect you. Dizziness and sleepiness may lead to falls, accidents, and serious injury. Do not consume alcohol.

Dangerous adverse effects including death are possible. Before using any other acetaminophen-containing medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist (sometimes abbreviated as APAP). Combining some drugs may result in a lethal overdose.

WES 303 should only be taken during pregnancy if the benefits exceed the hazards. This is why it is classified as pregnancy category C by the US FDA. It should be handled with extreme care.

Prolonged opiate usage during pregnancy may lead to physical dependency in the newborn; women should be informed about the danger of neonatal abstinence syndrome and ensure that proper treatment is provided.

Monitor newborns who have been exposed to opioid analgesics for symptoms of excessive sedation and respiratory depression.

Opioid analgesics pass through the placenta. The use of hydrocodone during childbirth may result in respiratory depression in the newborn baby.

Prolonged opiate usage during pregnancy might cause physical dependence in the neonate as well as neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome soon after delivery.

The onset, length, and severity of the condition will differ depending on maternal usage (duration of use, timing, and quantity of last use) and the newborn's rate of elimination. 

Although animal studies have shown deleterious effects at clinically relevant levels, acetaminophen has not been linked to significant congenital abnormalities.

Because of methodological constraints, epidemiologic studies do not reveal a link between oral acetaminophen and significant birth abnormalities, miscarriage, or unfavorable maternal or fetal outcomes when taken during pregnancy, but cannot prove the lack of any risk. 

Fetotoxicity (lower fetal weight and length) and dosage-related increases in bone variations (reduced ossification and rudimentary rib alterations) were detected in pregnant rats taking the oral medicines at doses up to 0.88 times the maximum human daily dose (MHDD) during organogenesis. 

When pregnant rats were administered oral medicines at dosages 1.2 times the maximum human daily dose throughout gestation, areas of necrosis in both the liver and kidney of pregnant rats and fetuses were found. Human pregnancy has no controlled data.

Chronic opioid usage may impair fertility; however, it is uncertain if these effects are reversible.

Animal reproduction studies have shown an unfavorable impact on the fetus, and there has been no appropriate and well-controlled human research, although possible advantages may justify the drug's usage in pregnant women despite potential dangers.

Breastfed babies of moms who consume opioids, particularly neonates, might develop sleepiness, CNS depression, and even death.

A study of 30 nursing mothers discovered mean and median hydrocodone baby daily doses of 3.9 and 2.1 mcg/kg, which equates to 2.4 and 1.6 percent of weight-adjusted maternal dosages, respectively.

Hydrocodone is broken down into six active metabolites, one of which is hydromorphone. The mean and median hydromorphone daily dosages were 2.1 and 0.3 mcg/kg, respectively.

Two women excreted much more hydromorphone than the others, suggesting that they are ultrarapid CYP450 2D6 metabolizers.

Given the value of the medicine to the mother, a choice should be taken to terminate breastfeeding or discontinue this drug. WES ingredients (acetaminophen and hydrocodone) are excreted in human milk.

Breastfed newborns should be examined for excessive sedation and respiratory depression; if the child has breathing problems or limpness, seek emergency medical assistance.

When a mother's drug usage or nursing is discontinued, her breastfed babies may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Make sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking the WES 303 pill.

Drug Interactions of WES 303

You may have breathing problems or withdrawal symptoms if you start or stop taking certain other medicines.

Tell your doctor if you also use an antibiotic, antifungal medication, heart or blood pressure medication, seizure medication, or medicine to treat HIV or hepatitis C.

Be sure your doctor knows if you also use:

• A sedative like Valium –diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam, Xanax, Klonopin, Versed, and others;
• Drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing –a sleeping pill, muscle relaxer, medicine to treat mood disorders or mental illness;
• Medicines for motion sickness, irritable bowel syndrome, or overactive bladder;
• Cold or allergy medicines, bronchodilator asthma/COPD medication, or a diuretic (“water pill”)
• Drugs that affect serotonin levels in your body –a stimulant, or medicine for depression, Parkinson’s disease, migraine headaches, serious infections, or nausea and vomiting.
• Other narcotic medications –opioid pain medicine or prescription cough medicine.

Opioid medication can interact with many other drugs and cause dangerous side effects or death.

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• Antihistamines
• MAOIs like Parnate, Eldepryl, carbex, Nardil, and Marplan
• Certain drugs for fungal infections like itraconazole and ketoconazole
• Certain drugs for bladder problems like tolterodine and oxybutynin,
• Alcohol
• General anesthetics like methoxyflurane, isoflurane, halothane, propofol
• Antiviral drugs for HIV or AIDS
• Certain antibiotics like clarithromycin and erythromycin,
• Ipratropium
• Local anesthetics like tetracaine, pramoxine, and lidocaine
• Rifampin
• Certain drugs for seizures like phenobarbital, carbamazepine, primidone, and phenytoin
• Atropine
• Other medicines with acetaminophen
• Phenothiazines like prochlorperazine, mesoridazine, chlorpromazine, and thioridazine.

Other drugs may affect WES 303 pills, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Not all possible interactions are listed here, so if you notice other unusual side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

IS WES 303 safe?

Yeah, it is, only when taken as prescribed. To get the most out of it, take it exactly as directed.

In general, you should take the lowest effective dosage for the shortest time.

Always make sure to consult your doctor before taking medications like this because there are certain conditions you might be in that taking WES 303 will be very harmful to you.

This will make it easier for you to go about your regular routines and have a better, more active quality of life.

IS WES 303 a controlled drug?

It is classified as a Schedule 2 controlled substance under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA), which means the following;

• WES 303 has a high potential for abuse.
• WES 303 is currently accepted medical use in treatment in the U.S. or a currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions.
• Abuse of the drug may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

IS WES 303 available in generic versions?

Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate are the generic versions of WES 303.

Alternatives or substitutes to WES 303

Tramadol, Gabapentin, and other good pain relievers are alternatives to WES 303.

What is the price of WES 303?

Depending on the pharmacy, one acetaminophen/hydrocodone oral tablet (325 mg-10 mg) costs roughly $26 for a supply of 60 pills.

Prices are solely applicable for cash-paying clients and do not apply to insurance policies. But the price also depends on the dose, strength, and form of WES 303 you are buying. 

Where can I buy WES 303?

 It can be bought at your local pharmacy, hospitals, and online drug stores like Drugs.com.

How do I store WES 303?

• Keep light and moisture at bay. 
• Store between 15-30`C at room temperature (59-86`F).
• Keep out of children's reach. This medication has the potential to be abused. 
• Keep your medication in a secure location to avoid theft. 

Do not give this medication to anybody else. This drug is harmful and illegal to sell or give away.

Final words on WES 303 by Healthsoothe

The information provided here is mostly for doctors, physicians, and pharmacists who are considering prescription WES 303 for their patients.

The total acetaminophen dosage should not surpass 4g in 24hrs and while calculating the total daily dose, account for all acetaminophen usage.

Because of the hazards of addiction, abuse, and misuse, the lowest effective dosage for the shortest period compatible with individual patient treatment objectives should be employed.

During periods of changing analgesic requirements, frequent communication between members of the healthcare team, patients, and their caregivers/family is essential during periods of changing analgesic requirements, frequent communication between members of the healthcare team, patients, and their caregiver/family is essential.

During periods of changing analgesic requirements, frequent communication between members of the healthcare team, patients, and their caregiver/family is essential.

If the pain level increases after stabilization of the dose, diagnosis, and test should be carried out to determine the source of the pain before the dose is increased.

Make sure you follow the following monitoring schedules:

• Keep an eye out for constipation symptoms.
• Close monitoring will be required in patients at elevated risk and/or those taking concomitant drugs that enhance the risk of respiratory depression, particularly during commencement and after any increase in dosage.
• Keep an eye out for the emergence of behaviors suggestive of addiction, abuse, or misuse.
• Keep an eye out for indicators of hypotension. Patients should be advised to consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new medications, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter products
• Patients should be aware that this drug contains acetaminophen and that they should not take any other products that contain acetaminophen during treatment without first consulting with their healthcare provider.
• Patients should not consume alcohol while taking this medication.
• Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should be aware that persistent opioid usage during pregnancy may result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which requires immediate detection and treatment. 
• Patients should understand the risks of life-threatening respiratory depression and be educated about when this risk is highest.
• Patients and caregivers should be encouraged to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible if too much medicine is taken or breathing issues develop.
• Patients should realize that even when used as prescribed, this medicine may lead to addiction, abuse, and misuse; teach patients not to share their prescription with others and to keep their drug safe from theft or misuse.
• Advise patients to keep this medication out of the sight and access of children; inadvertent kid usage is a medical emergency that may end in death.
• Patients should avoid operating or driving machinery, vehicles, or equipment until the harmful effects of this medication are confirmed.
• Patients should be taught correct disposal techniques.

If other adults, children, or pets consume this medication, it may cause injury or death. Return any unused medication to an authorized disposal place.

To locate a disposal location, call the DEA at 1-800-882-9539 or your local government. If you are unable to return the medication, flush it down the toilet. After the expiry date, do not use the medication.