What is the beyond use date for aqueous topicals that do not contain preservatives?

The beyond use date for aqueous topicals that do not contain preservatives is 14 days when stored in the refrigerator. This is important because aqueous formulations lacking preservatives are susceptible to microbial growth once they are opened or prepared. By refrigerating these products, the growth of bacteria and mold is slowed down, thereby extending their safe usage period. The recommended guideline for these formulations helps ensure that patients receive effective and safe topical treatments without the risk of contamination. In contrast, aqueous topicals stored at room temperature have a significantly shorter stability due to this increased risk. Therefore, a 14-day period in the refrigerator is a balanced approach to maintaining both efficacy and safety for these products.