How is the expiration date for medical supplies calculated?

The expiration date for medical supplies is determined primarily by referencing the week and year of production from the lot number. This method allows manufacturers to provide a timeline of when a product was made and assess its viability over time. The expiration date is based on stability studies conducted during development, which look at how long the product can be expected to remain effective and safe for use after its production.

Determining the expiration date in this way ensures that safety, efficacy, and quality standards are upheld. Manufacturers typically conduct rigorous testing to establish how long a product remains within acceptable parameters for performance, leading to the establishment of the expiration date. This is a more reliable method compared to arbitrary timelines or other factors not grounded in systematic testing.